Vacation Time for Pets
With the snow falling and cooler weather coming in, many people start planning their winter getaways. Here are some things to remember when planning for your pet's care while you are away. Whether your pets will go on vacation with you or have a relaxing stay-cation at a daycare, pet spa, or boarding facility here, go through this checklist and ensure you have everything accounted for!
Is your pet travelling to Florida or somewhere warm?
- In order to cross the border your dog or cat needs to be up to date on their vaccines. In addition to a Rabies vaccine certificate, some cases and modes of travel also require an international health certificate. Give us a call to make sure your pet's vaccines are up to date and book an appointment for an international health certificate (if needed)!
- Having a microchip in your pet is always a good idea, but especially when they are travelling! If they get lost or wander off in an unknown area, having a microchip will help them make their way back home when someone finds them! Even indoor cats can run outside in a quick dash, so they should have microchips too!
- Parasite prevention is very important for dogs and cats who travel, since the parasite season is year-round in the warm climates. Heartworm disease, fleas, and ticks are extremely prevalent in the southern US (e.g. Florida, Texas), the West Coast of the US (e.g. California) and the Caribbean. Pets should be given a monthly preventative before and after their trip south. If your pet will be there for more than one month they will also need medication while they are there. Call us before you travel to ensure you have enough monthly preventative to protect your pet against all those parasites!
Is your pet having a stay-cation here?
- Boarding facilities require proof of up to date vaccination in order to minimize disease transmission. In addition to a Rabies vaccine certificate, some facilities require the Bordetella vaccine as well. This vaccine protects dogs against Kennel Cough - a very infectious and contagious cough which can spread rapidly in boarding facilities. Call us today to make sure you pets are up to date on their vaccines!
- When you drop off your pet, remember to give the boarding facility your emergency contact information in case they need to reach you (or a substitute guardian) while you are away. Please also give them our contact information in case your pet needs medical treatment while you are away.
- Remember to leave detailed instructions for the boarding facility on your pet's specific needs - including their diet (how much food, any treats), medications (if needed), allergies and medical conditions (if applicable), behaviour (level of interaction with other dogs), toys, etc.
We have a list of boarding facilities that have been recommended by our clients - for all ages, lifestyles, and needs! Call us today and we can send you the list!