When Leaving Home For The Holidays, Pack Your Pet A Suitcase, Too!

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Don't get caught without your pet's essentials when traveling away for the holidays. Go ahead and pack your pet's suitcase to ensure you have everything that you will need to make your pet comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings.

Some items to pack in your pet's suitcase or overnight-bag include:

Your documentation. If your pet is a therapy animal, make sure to bring your documentation, doctor's note, and the pet's vest or harness to show that they are, indeed, a service or emotional support pet.

A decent car seat. Even if your dog is an excellent rider, make sure that they are always secured and safe in a car seat when going on a journey. This can also prevent your pet from fleeing if they become scared or startled on the road, which could cause them to become lost in strange or new places.

Collar, leash, and tags. Never let your pet leave home without wearing their collar and tags. This will help them to be identified in case they are separated from you during your trip. Also, be sure to bring a leash for transport and walks over the holiday.

Any medications. Bring extra medications that your pet may need during your outing. If allergies or symptoms of a medical condition crop-up during your holidays, you won't be forced to find an emergency vet at your destination.

Their favorite blanket or pillow. Take along your canine's favorite pillow, bed, blanket, or toys when heading out for the holidays. This will help them settle down and feel more comfortable, regardless of where they are.

A piece of your clothing. Pets will feel more comfortable and secure if you put a piece of clothing that belongs to their primary human in the kennel, crate, or car with them.

The contact info for your vet. Plug the contact information for your vet into your cell phone or put their business card in your wallet before leaving home. This will save stress and time during an emergency, when you want to touch base with your regular veterinary provider.

Plenty of food and water. Anytime that you take your pet on a trip in the car, make sure that you have extra food and bottled water on hand. This ensures that you don't get stranded without kibbles and a drink for hungry dogs, and that you don't need to try and hunt-down a convenience store to find these items later during your trip.

Whether you are taking your pet to a dog boarding kennel for a week or going to family's for a night, pack a suitcase just for them. Use these tips to ensure you are never without the items you need to make your pet comfortable, wherever they happen to be. 

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dealing with a dog's separation anxiety

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