Road trip tips for traveling with pets

Packing up the dog for a vacation or a trip to grandma's? Traveling with pets can be tricky, and keeping them healthy is paramount.

Here's some pet travel advice from 4everPets, makers of natural pet nutrition products:

•Whether traveling by air or car, a familiar crate will relax the dog. Never put a leash inside, as a pet could get tangled.

•Brushing the dog and clipping its nails before leaving will make traveling more comfortable.

• Bring water, the dog's favorite food, bedding, toy and dishes, pet first-aid kit and old sheets to cover car seats and furniture.

•Identify the dog with a current tag or microchip. Carry current health and rabies certificates and a recent photo.

•A dog's claws and fur can get caught in escalators. Pick up or crate the dog, or take the elevator.

•Avoid tranquilizers. The ASPCA advises not to use sedatives because they interfere with balance and can hamper breathing. Instead, use a natural, herbal product like "Missing You" to relax a dog without dizziness or drowsiness.

•Chow time: Traveling by car? Feed a light meal three or

four hours before

leaving.

Never feed a dog in a moving car. Dogs should fly on an empty stomach.

•Do a

health

check ev

ery day

away, says

the Ameri

can Veteri

nary Medi

cal Associa

tion. Look for runny nose and eyes, scratching or biting, lumps, limping or appetite loss. Check any concerns with a local veterinarian.

This story is provided by State Point Media.