Happy and healthy pets this holiday
JOBURG - While most holidaymakers have a check list of things to do and items to remember to ensure a fantastic time away, many are less prepared and organised when packing for their pets.
Frontline®Plus has a few tips to ensure the happiness and health of your pets during the holiday season.
When travelling with your pets in the car:
– Keep pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or pet carrier that is large enough for them to stand, lie down and turn around in.
– Have a “pet pack” ready for the trip with items such as pet travel papers, your pets’ regular food, spill-proof water bowls, favourite toys and any medication they require.
– Make sure your pets’ vaccinations are up to date as this is especially important in protecting them against rabies.
– Ensure your pets are micro-chipped and are wearing identification tags with your updated contact details in case of an emergency.
– Stop regularly while travelling so that your pets, especially dogs, can stretch their legs and stay hydrated.
– Never leave your pets unattended in a parked vehicle.
When taking pets to the seaside:
– Protect your pets from fleas when travelling to the coast. The coast is the perfect breeding ground for fleas.
– Always keep a watchful eye over your dogs when at the beach and keep them away from waves if they are not used to them.
– Always clean up after your pets, don’t let them become a nuisance to others.
When taking pets to the bush:
– Protect your pets from fleas and ticks when travelling to the bush.
– Check your pets for ticks while visiting the bush as well as when you return home. Billary is a deadly disease.
– Remember to de-worm your pets regularly if they are travelling with you to the bush.
When placing pets in kennels or catteries:
– Pet vaccinations need to be up-to-date when placing your animals in kennels.
– Kennels will require your pets’ vaccination booklets before accepting them.
– Find a kennel that will make your pets stay as comfortable and pleasant as possible.
– Take your pets’ regular food and homely comforts along when placing them in a kennel. It makes their stay away from home a little less frightening and uneasy.
When getting a pet sitter:
– Ask for references when looking for a pet sitter to take care of your pets while you are away.
– Provide clear and precise instructions for the pet sitter about details such as feeding times, any medication that needs to be given, the bedding and sleeping areas for the pets, where the pet food is kept and where the water bowls are.
– Leave a list of up-to-date contact numbers for the pet sitter, including emergency numbers and your local vet’s contact details.
– If any medication or services are needed while you are away, ensure the pet sitter knows who to contact and what to do in case of an emergency.
