Prepare your dog for a long care ride by taking him on shorter trips beforehand.

 

Feed your dog lightly before beginning a trip, about 1/3 of his normal amount.

 

Take fresh water with you during your trip.

 

Travel with a leash but remove it after placing your dog in a crate as it could become entangled.

 

Check with airlines, hotels and campgrounds regarding dog restrictions that may apply.

 

Pack a copy of your dog’s health records and rabies vaccination certificate.  Include a recent photo and physical description and consider a microchip to aid in identification.

 

Add a tag to your dog’s collar that includes a telephone number where you can be reached if you dog gets separated from you.

 

Never sedate your dog during travel unless your veterinarian recommends it.  Some medications can trigger equilibrium, respiratory, cardiovascular or temperature regulation problems.

 

Ask your veterinarian to examine your dog to make sure he is in good health.  It is especially important that your dog is protected against infectious tracheobronchitis, a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs.  Contact with other dogs carrying this disease-causing bacteria could put your pet at risk.