Memorial Day Weekend and Your Pets

The weekend that kicks off summer, vacations, and fun in the sun can be stressful and irritating not only to you, but also to your pets.

It is one of the busiest weekends for travel, BBQ’s and other celebrations.

Please take these safety tips into consideration when planning your fun.
If traveling with your pet, take identification for them and their health records.

If you are having guests and your dog roams freely throughout the house and the backyard, make sure they will be relaxed with lots of other people at your house. If your dog is stressed by the noise and amount of people, they may try and dig out of the backyard which could lead to horrible consequences like getting hit by a car or running away forever.

Remember that dogs can suffer heat stroke just like humans. Make sure your pet has a comfortable place to get out of the sun, rain, or other types of weather.

Please remember your pet’s sensitive stomach and even though it’s a holiday, keep them on their regular diet. Many foods can upset them and are just plain poisonous.

If you need too travel without your pet, there are many quality pet sitting services available, pre-screened, background checked sitters and dog walkers also offers affordable pet sitting and house sitting.

Take your vet's phone number with you. If you're going someplace involving hiking or the great outdoors, call your vet ahead of time to make sure you are adequately prepared for all conditions (heartworm medication, flea treatment, etc).

Make sure your pet's ID tags are current! I cannot stress this enough - if you and your pet become separated for any reason, your current phone number on the pet's tag is vital. Trust me on this one. You'll thank me.

Have appropriately strong leashes and harnesses available to you. If one leash breaks, you'll have a backup. Or, if you're a diva like my dog, you'll want options depending upon mood and color choice for the day.

Pack plenty of water, and have an easy way to dispense it to your pet. I have a hiking water bottle made for dogs which comes with its own little plastic trough, creating an easy drinking solution.

Plan rest stop visits into your trip - remember, pets have smaller bladders than we do. Hard to believe in my case, but true.

Seal your pet food tightly. Critters will find pet food a unique delight - an airtight container will be your best bet.

Never, ever leave your pet in the car for extended periods of time. It's hot! Warm weather is upon us, and your pet will suffer needlessly if left in the car for an extended length of time.

Summer is officially here so let’s kick it off right and have a safe and joyful holiday weekend for your pets!