Pet Care Today

Household Pet Safety

2009-09-25T11:10:00.005-05:00

Pet safety is an issue that every pet owner needs to remain mindful of on a daily basis. Sometimes daily routines and habits can unknowingly expose my pet to harm. This article found on the Drs. Foster and Smith pet blog lists some very common things found in homes that could easily harm your pet.

Household Hazards for Pets

by Ellen B. on September 25, 2009

Keeping your pet safe can be challenging due to their curious nature. Cats and dogs like to snoop, so owners need to take a few precautions. My dog is most famous for dumpster diving in the bathroom trash can. It really scared me when I saw he had a razor out, so I now have a covered trash can. Here are a few other common household items that are hazardous for pets:

Plants - Many common plants can make your pet ill. Our educational staff has a great article that details some poisonous plants and the problems they could cause.

Medications - Both yours and your pet’s prescription and supplements can be harmful to your pet. Dogs and puppies can easily chew through a plastic container.

Poisonous Foods - There are many human foods that poison pets. You owe it to your pet to know what they are! Chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, alcohol, apple seeds… Checkout these more complete lists of foods that are dangerous for dogs and cats.

Paper Shredder – Unplug your paper shredder when not in use. Your dog’s tongue can get caught…ugly outcome.

Electric Cords – These are especially tempting to puppies because they like to chew, but any age pet could potentially decide to investigate. Avoid possible electric shock by unplugging accessible cords, encasing cords in plastic tubing (PVC pipe) or purchase a cord protector that prevents your pet from chewing on the cord.

Purse - Never leave your purse on the floor or low-level surface. There are so many potential hazards typically carried in a purse; anything from pain relievers to sharp objects.

Rat Poison/Mouse Traps – When you are focused on getting rid of the rodent problem, you can easily forget that your pet might roam or sniff ANYWHERE he can get!

Toilet Bowl Cleaners – My rule is to never use automatic toilet bowl cleaners if there is a pet in the house. Even if your pet “doesn’t drink from the toilet”, you just never know. Don’t take the chance.

Trash Cans – Kitchen garbage can contain tempting items that could result in your pet choking or being poisoned. Bathroom garbage containers often have razors and cleansing products. Keep doors closed or garbage containers concealed!

Xylitol (Sugar Substitute) – Found in some sugar-free chewing gum, candy, chewable vitamins, and baked goods, xylitol can be poisonous and life-threatening to pets. This article details signs and symptoms of xylitol poisoning.

A few basic items are very helpful for pet safety:

* Gates are an easy way to create off-limit areas that could pose safety issues in your house.
* Crates and kennels keep your pet safe when you are not there to supervise.

Please leave a comment and share your pet safety tips or any other household hazards.

Top Pet People on Twitter

2009-06-22T14:16:00.030-05:00

Twitter is a great place to connect with a community of fellow pet lovers and pet experts. Get tips on taking good care of your pet, meet interesting pet owners and even be entertained. Here are pet "tweeple" who are range from authors, bloggers, industry experts, average pet lovers, rescues and even pets that tweet!

@Petsaretalking Friendly animal communicator that engages with people and participate in a pet-related radio show. Often blogs in support of shelter pets.

@DFS_Ellen Tweets on behalf of Drs. Foster and Smith pet supplies including pet care tips, articles and videos. Engages with followers and answers questions.

@PawLuxury Tweets on behalf of Paw Luxury eco-friendly dog products. Friendly tweets including links to pet care blog articles.

@twoofnews Tweets interesting pet-related news articles.

@JohannTheDog A twittering agility dog the also has a blog that aims to help owners find cool stuff for dogs. Engages with followers and tweets from a dog's view of life.

@dogster From Dogster.com, tweets pet care tips and pet-related news articles.

@MinPinRescue @baltimorehumane @Kat5Rescue @animalshelter are a few of the rescue/shelter organizations that tweet to help the animal world by encouraging pet adoption.

@Ghlaghghee (pronounced Fluffy) is a twittering cat that is very entertaining. Claims to be held hostage in a human prison. "They feed me dry kibble and make me pee in a box of gravel."

This list is a sampling. If you're a pet lover, leave a comment with your Twitter profile link. Don't have a Twitter account? Sign up for free account and find more of these types of people on Twitter.

Othopedic Dog Bed

2009-06-01T18:21:00.001-05:00

At 11 years old, my dog is now deemed a "senior dog." One of the changes I've seen in him recently is that he "clunks" when he lays down, and he rises a little more slowly from his bed. I decided it's time for my dog to have an orthopedic dog bed.

What are orthopedic dog beds? Drs. Foster and Smith offers the following description:

Built to protect aged or ailing joints, orthopedic beds provide maximum support with medical-grade foam and/or box spring construction. In this category you'll find a mix of bolsters, mats, nests, and traditional beds that our doctors recommend for older or arthritic pets.

The supportive foam is really helpful for my dog. He looks more comfortable and certainly doesn't "clunk" at bedtime. A good orthopedic bed is an investment, but it is well worth it for the way it helps senior dogs' ailing joints.

In general, I believe every dog should have his own bed. My dog now has 4 beds, each residing in different rooms. He has always preferred his dog bed over the couch. Although sometimes he jumps on my bed, when it comes to night bedtime he prefers his own bed. It's something of his own, and a place he can rest comfortably.

Research different types of dog beds so you are sure to get the style that best suits your dog.

It is Unsafe for a Pet to Ride with His Head Out of the Car Window

2009-05-19T14:32:00.001-05:00

From PetEducation.com

Q. Why is it unsafe for a dog to ride in the car with his head out of the window?

A. We definitely recommend you do NOT allow your pet to travel with his head out of the window for several reasons:

If the dog's head can get outside of the window, chances are his whole body can. We have seen dogs jump or fall out of open windows of vehicles and become seriously injured or worse.

Small particles could enter your dog's eyes or ears causing severe injury. Larger objects such as tree branches hanging onto a street, or road construction signs could also cause injury to a dog whose head is outside of the vehicle.

If you would be involved in an accident, a dog with his head outside of the window could, again, be seriously injured or even killed.

Animals riding in a vehicle should be in a cage, crate, traveling harness, or otherwise restrained. NEVER allow your pet to ride in the back of an open pickup truck, even if restrained. Cages or crates may be thrown out in the event of an accident. Animals who are tied may attempt to jump out, resulting in strangulation or dragging the animal behind the vehicle.

Water Fun for Fido!

2009-05-15T06:38:00.000-05:00

Dogs and humans need relief on hot summer days. Most dogs love water, but not everyone has easy access to an ocean, lake or pond. Solution: KIDDIE POOLS!

Kiddie pools are not just for kids - dogs love them too! What a great way to keep your dog cool...and entertained! Point in case:

How to Keep Your Pet Cool

2009-05-14T14:46:00.003-05:00

Can you imagine wearing a fur coat on a hot summer day? Your dog would love to imagine not wearing his fur coat on hot summer days! Checkout some "cool" pet supplies available to ease summer heat on your dog.

Just like an ice pack on your neck or forehead cools you down, this Cooling Bandana cools your dog. It's easy to use, very inexpensive, reusable and washable - and I must add stylish!

This cooling mat contains co-polymer crystals that absorb water. This product is also very easy to use, durable and reusable. Airflow is used to cool, and no wetness is next to your pet's body.

While you enjoy a refreshing popsicle, your dog will enjoy the cooling that comes from this chilly bone. Durable canvas outside is saturated with long-lasting vanilla flavor and is very affordable. This product is also a teething toy for puppies.

Here's another cooling mat with a slightly different design and is less expensive that the mat above. This mat is also reusable and can also be used to keep the dog warm during winter.

The most important pet supplies item to always have available to your dog is fresh, cool water — whether on a walk, in the car or in the house or yard. Remember, hot sun can quickly make water too hot to drink.

Pictures from Drs. Foster & Smith Pet Supplies, where the above products can be purchased.

National Pet ID Week

2009-04-22T11:19:00.003-05:00

A simple ID tag can keep a pet from ending up in an animal shelter. Even indoor pets can sometimes end up lost. Do you have accurate and readable identification tags on your pets? April 18-24 is National Pet ID week, so let's all take the time to take a look at our pet's tag.

No tag or out-dated tag? Tags are inexpensive and available online or even your local Walmart store has a "make your own id" machine (generally located in the store entrance).

Don't put if off, go take a look and get a new tag if needed. Your pet thanks you.

Easter Pet Safety

2009-04-10T10:06:00.004-05:00

Every holiday brings things out of the ordinary into our homes. Take note of a few precautions to ensure your pet's safety this Easter.

1. Cats love to play with the plastic grass in Easter baskets. However, that grass causes big problems for their digestive system.

2. Any pet may look at an Easter basket filled with candy as it's personal candy buffet. Keep baskets away from nose reach of any pet.

3. Easter Lilies are a poisonous plant for pets, and can cause kidney failure and death. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat eats any part of an Easter lily. Treatment includes causing the cat to vomit and must be done within 18 hours of ingesting the plant.

Bike With Your Dog

2009-04-08T09:13:00.008-05:00

As summer weather and longer days roll in, consider dusting off your bike for some bonding time with your dog. Dogs love fresh air, and they'll enjoy a bike ride just as much as you! Regardless of the size of your dog, there are bike accessories that make it easy for you to include your dog on your bike rides.

Easy to install front carrier bicycle basket ensures your dog goes with you on outdoor adventures. Attaches easily to bicycle handle bars to create a soft comfortable nest. Includes clip leash, pockets for treats, belongings, and water bottle. Holds pets up to 15 lbs.

This dog bike trailer is great for pets large and small. Offers your small, older, or injured pets the ability to enjoy your company outdoors. Perfect for walks, jogs, or bike rides when you aren't sure if your pet can make it all the way. Trailer converts into a jogging stroller.

Walk your dog while you ride. Converts from bike lead to baton leash in seconds. Dog-safe quick-release and spring mount design.

Thanks to Drs. Foster and Smith pet supplies for the product pictures and desciptions.

Got Dog Toy Fluff

2009-03-28T11:38:00.001-05:00

When I give my dog a stuffed dog toy, I am fairly confident he looks at it as a challenge: kill it and remove all stuffing! If your dog has the stuffing out of a new toy in a matter of minutes, consider Skineez, stuffing-free dog toys.

Because of their appearance, I affectionately refer to Skineez dog toys as "road kill". Regardless of it's looks, my dog loves it and carries it around like a baby blanket.

Each toy has a few squeakers. Although the squeakers are out of my dog's Skineez, they did last a few weeks--longer than any other squeaker toy! After a few months, the toy has taken a beating, but he still digs it out of his toy box on a regular basis. Doesn't matter that it's missing it's head, Lucky still loves his Skineez. (My dog, Lucky, got the toy for Christmas 2008, and this is him still playing with it on March 26.)

Skineez toys are very reasonable - $7 maximum depending on the size. It won't last forever, but I personally know several dogs who thoroughly enjoy this toy. I like to vary Lucky's dog toys so he doesn't get bored. Skineez toys are different and dogs love them.

Safe Car Travel with Your Dog

2009-03-27T18:07:00.002-05:00

For the safety of both you and your dog, your dog should be restrained or confined at all times while riding in a car. An unrestrained dog can be a serious threat to everyone in the car. Dogs can easily distract the driver and impair driving ability. Also, quick stops, turns, and accidents can seriously injure your dog if he is not properly restrained.

Purchase a crate or restraining device made for vehicles. You and your dog deserve to be protected.

(Thanks to Jackie and her dog, Murphy for the picture!)

How Far Would You Go To Save Your Pet?

2009-03-26T00:48:00.002-05:00

After reading MSNBC's article Steep vet bills, sour economy doom more pets, I began to wonder what I would do if my dog needed a $3200 surgery. That's a big pet expense in any economic situation. How much financial hardship would you put on your family in order to save a pet's life?

Most pet owners consider their faithful furry friend an official member of their family. Even without a common language, we feel connected and emotionally attached to our pets. So when our pet needs expensive medical procedures, it's difficult to decide how much is too much to spend.

How much financial hardship should your family take on to save a pet? I feel that the best answer to that question is personal and differs for each family. It's a difficult decision and what one family can afford, another family cannot. We need to be responsible, but responsible does not always mean saving a pet's life at any expense.

Does anyone ever want to put down their pet? No. But, sometimes it's just a sad necessity.

Heartworm Disease

2009-03-23T16:23:00.002-05:00

Heartworm can be a devastating disease for pets, but is easily prevented. Pet owners need to know simple preventive measures, as well as symptoms. The article introduced below contains all the information you need to know about heartworm disease.

Article by Drs. Foster & Smith:

Many new pet owners and some long-time owners of pets may not know the reason their pet needs a heartworm preventive. This article explains everything an owner needs to know about this devastating disease including how it is transmitted, signs of the disease, how veterinarians diagnose and treat the disease, and most importantly, how it is easily prevented.

Click here for the entire article about Heartworm.

Siamese Dogs - Or Puppy Love?

2009-03-16T19:37:00.002-05:00

Dog owners are well aware of the strong bond between dogs and their owners, but these pictures tell the story of 2 dogs who are clearly best friends. My heart is warmed every time I see the many pictures of them cuddling.

It's funny that at first glance they may appear to be siamese twins bonded by the neck, back or bellies. However, I'm convinced they're bonded at the heart.

These loving dogs are a product of their environment. Behind thier carefree, completely content personalities is a committed, loving owner. Although the adorable pictures may give the ol' saying "Dog is man's best friend" a little competition, I think their "mom" is still #1.

Thanks to my friend Mari, and her dogs Pablo and Chico, who made this blog post possible.

Top 10 Cute Puppy Pictures

2009-03-10T12:17:00.031-05:00

We're all touched by the cute little faces of puppies. Here is an "awwww" post of the top 10 cutest puppies pictures I could find on the web. Each picture is credited with website from which I found the picture. Click individual pictures to go to the sites and possibly find more adorable puppy pictures.

This adorable puppy came from the Drs. Foster and Smith site. Interesting fact: most pets that model for the Drs. Foster and Smith catalog and website belong to company employees. Will work for pet supplies!

These cute, fuzzy collie puppies look so loving. They'd never terrorize each other, would they?

These boys were adopted together by Patricia at Six Dog Studio Gallery. When it comes to cuteness like this; 1 is good but 2 are better!

I might be partial to labrador puppies, but these puppies are climb-out-of-the-Christmas-gift-box cute!

At PuppyPictures.org, you can browse pictures such as this shepherd puppy that is cute as a button, or you can register and upload your "cute little angel." Just be prepared to smile if you click the link!

I agree with the Shar Pei Blog...Shar Peis are one of the funniest and most adorable creatures on Earth.

Are you my mamma? PuppyFind.com sure found themselves a cute picture! This little Saint Bernard puppy might grow up to be as much as 170 pounds!

Full grown, this little Yorkie will still look like a cute little puppy to me! These toy dogs grow to an average of 7 pounds or less. Life-long attention grabbers!

Teacher's Pet sure found the perfect cover models for their puppy training page! Sometimes descriptive words are not needed.

My, what big ears you have! Perfect puppy picture.

Thank a Pet

2009-02-27T15:48:00.006-06:00

Studies have shown that pets enrich our lives. Despite our mood, they love us unconditionally, protect us and pets can even reduce the stress we feel.

Sometimes I walk into the door with my hands full and 100 things on my mind. Later I realize I didn't say hello to my dog - even though I know he was at the door to greet me. Regardless of my ill manners, he's near my side wagging his tail...just waiting for me to be ready to say hello. What an understanding and forgiving creature.

It's no wonder that hospitals and nursing homes use therapy dogs to help their patients. Therapy dogs can help troubles disappear as the dog becomes their focus rather than their pain. If only for a moment, the friendliness of these dogs brightens the days of the troubled.

Have you been blessed with a pet in your life? If so, take time today to thank him with a good ol' fashion belly rub, a "you're a good boy/girl" and of course a treat is always appreciated.

As the saying goes, "I’m trying to become the person my dog thinks I am."

Dog Beds: Invest Wisely

2009-02-26T11:10:00.012-06:00

Just as people appreciate a comfortable bed, dogs appreciate a comfortable dog bed. My dog currently has 3 dog beds; all located in different rooms, and all used throughout the day.

Since a dog bed is an important investment in your dog's health and comfort, be sure to research before buying. There are different styles of dog beds and you want to be sure to get the exact type of bed he prefers. Some beds help a dog curl up and snuggle in, while others allow stretching out. Orthopedic dog beds provide extra support, which is particularly beneficial for arthritic, older, or overweight dogs.

Although it shouldn't be top priority, it's always nice to select a dog bed with a color and style to match your home decor'. Dogs generally prefer to be in the middle of family activity, and having a bed in the main room gives him his own personal space. Dog beds can complement your decorating, versus working against it.

A quality dog bed will last for years, so time spent on research will ensure you make a wise investment. The one thing I have found is that you get what you pay for - a cheap dog bed will need to be replaced quickly.

Nylabone for Dogs

2009-02-25T09:09:00.005-06:00

I have not yet tried any Nylabone products for my dog, but intend to try one out now that I found a coupon for $2 off any Nylabone product. The coupon is on Nylabone's website and appears as if everyone is welcome to print and use it at a local retailer of their choice.

My black lab is a heavy chewer and LOVES rawhide bones. I'm hoping that the bone-hard texture in Nylabones will wear down more slowly. Nylabone's website indicates their products promote good canine dental hygiene - always a bonus.

Does you dog like any particular Nylabone products? Would love to see comments about any Nylabones - positive and negative - so I can better decide which one to purchase. I will let you know which product I select, and how my dog does with it.

Spay Day - Get It Done!

2009-02-24T16:55:00.002-06:00

Getting your dog or cat spayed or neutered is of utmost importantance in the effort to keep the homeless pet population under control. Today, Spay Day USA, is our reminder to GET IT DONE!

Sure, we are all touched by the little faces of new puppies, and some may even think about having a litter themselves, but it's best to leave that to a responsible dog breeder. Experienced dog breeders are equipped and prepared to care for a litter, and can handle any health problems that might arise. A reputable breeder often has new owners waiting for puppies before they are born, and will screen prospective buyers to ensure the puppies go to good, caring homes.

Talk to your veterinarian about spaying as soon as you get a puppy. There are health and behavioral benefits to spaying your dog before she has a heat. Most dogs are spayed between 5 and 8 months of age, but it can be done as early as 2 months or any older age.

Happy Spay Day USA!

Flea & Tick Control

2009-02-03T11:24:00.008-06:00

As springtime nears, pet owners will want to prepare for flea and tick season. With the current economic recession, we're all looking to find ways to save. Be savvy when shopping for your pet's flea control products - there is a huge price range for these products among retailers.

Veterinarian offices generally have extreme markups on flea and tick control products. Online pet supplies retailers provide a much less expensive alternative. Plus, online sellers tend to ship flea and tick control products free - making it not only reasonable but extremely convenient.

It's easy to compare prices online. Often, retailers will openly list their competitors' prices to prove they have established a priority of offering the lowest price. As an example, I'll do a price comparison for Frontline Plus. It is the top-selling flea and tick control product on the market. A three-month supply of Frontline Plus for a 45-88 lb dog:

Drs. Foster & Smith charges $42.99 (free shipping)
1800PetMeds charges $50.99 (free shipping)
Petco charges $49.99 (plus $7.99 shipping)
Petsmart - does not sell Frontline Plus

Other pet meds such as heartworm pills are also available from online retailers. A little browsing can save you a lot of money!

National Hat Day-Include Your Pet!

2009-01-14T10:34:00.013-06:00

Are you ready to celebrate National Hat Day on January 15? Hats come in many different sizes, colors and shapes-including hats that fit your pet. We include our pet in many different celebrations such as birthdays, Christmas and Halloween. Why not celebrate National Hat Day with your pet? No act of congress declared January 15 as a true "National" day, but go ahead and let these pictures inspire you to have fun with it anyway!

Remember to put safety first. Don't let your dog unattended while wearing a hat. Also, let your dog slowly get used to wearing a hat. This video has great tips on how to get your dog to wear a costume.

www.doggles.com

www.k9koolhats.com

www.trixieandpeanut.com

www.drsfostersmith.com

www.hunterk9.com

Human Foods That Poison Pets

2008-12-29T16:35:00.002-06:00

Our pets depend on us to feed them a healthy diet. They need a nutritional food, and they love treats---healthy AND TASTY treats! I personally like treats because they promote bonding between me and my pets. However, table scraps are NOT a good choice for treats.

Can you imagine if you fed your pet something that was actually toxic to their system? There are some human foods that are just that---toxic to pets. Take the time to read this article about Human Foods That Poison Pets.

Chocolate, grapes, onions, apple cores, garlic....and the list goes on.

Make Your Own Dog Biscuits

2008-12-05T08:04:00.008-06:00

Whether you have a dog of your own or need a unique hostess gift when going to a pet parent's house, homemade dog biscuits are perfect. You control the ingredients which means you know the nutritional value. Dog biscuit recipes are generally simple and require few ingredients. Bloggers who love their pets offer these recipes:

Healthier Dogs has two Homemade Dog Treat Recipes that she says are "easy and fun, even if you hate to prepare things from scratch."

"Animal and Natural" on Squidoo gives a tasty dog biscuit recipe. She says "Several minutes after the first batch is baking in the oven, our dog Maxxamillion will suddenly stop playing, sniff the air, and walk over to his favorite spot in the kitchen to wait for them. He recognizes the delicious aroma of these biscuits every single time."

Ali at Home of the Lazy Dog has a recipe for Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits. She says she’s made a lot of different kinds of dog treats and these are her favorite because they're “easy, healthy, natural, crunchy and taste great.”

Top 5 Gifts for Cats

2008-12-04T15:50:00.011-06:00

A few posts back I listed my Top 5 Gifts for Dogs. To be fair to felines, here's my Top 5 Gifts for Cats:

5. Cats love to nap, so give them the gift of comfy lounging on cat bed they can call their own.

Splurge and get a classy cat bed such as this "love seat" on sale at Cattoys.com for $149.99.

A less expensive alternative is the Cozy Cushion for $19.99. This alternative bed can be placed on the floor or furniture.

4. Cats are often lazy, so get them a great cat toy that will get them moving!
Da Bird cat toy is nice because a person has to get involved...and it's so much fun! Interaction with a pet is always a good thing, and this toy is fun for the person and the cat! All that fun comes at the low price of only $6.99!

3. Cat furniture with multiple perching spots is always a winner. Cats like to jump, play, peek, and sleep on a textured piece of furniture made just for them. Scratching posts are also an important piece of cat furniture. Consider making your own cat furniture. Get ideas at About.com in their article titled DIY Cat Trees and Scratching Posts.

2. Every living creature likes treats, so cat treats make an excellent gift.

1. One word...CATNIP!

Feline Fantasia® Catnip will get even the fattest cat moving!

Traveling With Your Dog

2008-12-01T10:34:00.002-06:00

Traveling with Your Dog in the Car this Holiday Season? by Dawn Ross (as published at GoArticles.Com)

The Holiday Season is here and it's time to visit family. Some of you have family close by while others may have to drive a few to several hours. For those of you who have to go a long distance, you will probably want to take your dog with you. Your dog is part of the family, after all. So if you are traveling with your dog in the car for a long drive, here are a few tips to make the travel easier and safer for you both.

Some dogs love to ride in the car while others don't. Before traveling with your dog in the car, check with your vet. Make sure your dog is healthy enough for the trip or if it would be best to leave the dog at home or with a boarding kennel. Or your vet may recommend something to keep your dog calm during the trip if your dog tends to get nervous in the car.

Also have your vet make sure your dog has updated tags and possibly even an identifying microchip insert. This is for just in case your dog gets away during a pit stop or your dog wanders off while you are at your far-from-home destination.

Depending on how long you are traveling with your dog in the car, you may want to have your dog's food and water handy. Convenient pet travel bowls would make it easy to give your dog food and water while making a pit stop. If your dog tends to get sick in the car, you may not want to give them food. Be sure to talk to your vet about this.

Be prepared to make pit stops for not just you, but also your dog. You do not want a doggie accident in the car. If you are afraid such a thing might happen, it would be best if you had a car seat cover or even just a blanket over the seat. Handi-wipes are great for cleaning up messes and eliminating some odors. Make sure you put your dog on a leash when you let your dog out of the car. Also, keep some dog waste bags on hand. Picking up after your pet is not just a courtesy, it is a requirement in some places.

The most important thing to consider for traveling with your dog in the car is a pet auto safety device such as a dog seat belt. The last thing you need while driving possibly wet or icy roads is a distraction caused by your pet. Some dogs are inclined to jump back and forth from the front to the back seat or they attempt to get into the driver's lap. A dog seat belt will help to keep your dog in the back seat. Even if your dog is well behaved in the car, a dog seat belt will help to protect your dog should an unfortunate accident occur. If your dog is 30 pounds or smaller and the trip is long, you may also consider using a comfortable pet car seat in conjunction with a dog seat belt.

If you have a chance, take your dog on smaller trips to get them used to riding in the car or wearing their dog seat belt. Traveling with your dog in the car does not have to be a hassle. And don't forget to pack all the things both you and your dog will need during the family visit. Besides all the items listed above (current tags, food and water, dog travel bowls, dog waste bags, dog seat belt, and dog leash), you may also want to bring your dog's crate, their bed, and their favorite dog toys. This way, your dog feels a little more at home and has as great of a time as you. Have a safe and wonderful holiday!

About the Author
Primary owner of PetAutoSafety.com