Health records are vital.

Since my first Pets on the Go column appeared in RV Travel, I've heard from people across the country and as far away as Saudi Arabia with concerns, questions and super ideas about traveling with pets. One family travels with four large dogs and children, too. WOW! One couple is beginning an exciting adventure as fulltimers with their dog and cat. What fun! Another wants to travel with a cat and dog that tear into each other every so often. And I thought RVing was supposed to be relaxing! The number of RVers traveling with multiple pets is amazing. The topics to cover are endless. So we begin at the beginning.

Don't leave your pet's health records "behind."

The very first step as you plan your RV journey with your pet is a trip to the veterinarian. Each pet must have his own health record and these must be complete and up to date. Every health problem must be listed along with a complete listing of medications your pet might be taking either regularly or once in a while. Carry an extra supply of any prescriptions and also copies of the written prescriptions. Does your dog have allergies? Is he allergic to certain medications? All of this should be mentioned in the health record. Also make sure it is noted if your pet is spayed or neutered.

All shots and vaccinations must be up to date and listed on the health record. There are three basic vaccinations that all dogs should have regardless of where you live and where you are going. Parvovirus, Distemper and Hepatitis are the primary vaccinations that require annual boosters. There is some variance in the recommended vaccinations in different parts of the country. Rabies is vital. After the initial vaccination, it is generally given every three years. Cats should be vaccinated if they are ever outside.

Where will you be traveling? Are there special health issues you need to know about and prepare for? Will you be in heartworm territory or locations where Lyme disease is prevalent? Will you encounter fleas and ticks? Even if you do not face these problems at home, you do not want an RV full of fleas. How ghastly! If you will be in a flea and/or tick area, there are topical solutions you can administer yourself. Frontline is one of these. These can be purchased through your veterinarian but they are also available at pet supply stores. Buy a quality product, not the cheapest. You want to be sure it works. Breaking open the top of the vial, you simply apply the solution to the skin between the shoulder blades. It lasts from four to six weeks. Carry a supply with you but watch the expiration dates. Follow the recommendations of your veterinarian to ensure your pet is properly protected wherever your travels might take you. 

Be sure that the veterinarian's name, address, phone and fax numbers are on the health records. Email addresses would be handy if you have questions along the way. With multiple pets, put these records in a larger envelope which is clearly marked Pet Health Records, and place it in the doggie duffle or with other valuable papers. Photographs of each pet should be included in this envelope with the pet's name and your name on the back. Make copies of all pet records and keep in a safe place at home.

Talk with your veterinarian about a microchip and put together a first aid kit. More about these in later columns. On the way home from the vet's office, stop at your city or county offices to buy a dog license. This is one of the least expensive forms of identification you can have.

Traveling with pets is great fun. Proper preparation begins with complete, up to date health records.

With questions or comments, contact Christy Powers at cpwrather@earthlink.net.

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