How to travel with your pet

When I was doing travel nursing, I drove across country two or three times to get to my jobs.  I did it alone as a single female, but I had my companion rat terrier traveling with me every time.

Taking a trip with your dog or cat does require preplanning and some extra steps, but traveling with your pets is doable and provides you with lots of memories and experiences that you will treasure forever.

Our pets live such short lives compared to us, so you need to spend as much quality time with them as you can.  My rattie is gone and I miss him dearly, but the time we spent traveling will always be in my memory.  My favorite memory is of him sitting up in the passenger seat in my pickup truck and getting excited every time a semi drove by him.  It was almost like a small child wanting to get the driver to blow the horn.  He would bounce up and down and bark out the window at the truck every time.  I would laugh and laugh at him until he finally settled back down.

There was even one time that we flew to California and back and that took quite a bit of arrangements to accomplish.  So, let's talk about the things you need to think about and do before you travel with your pet.  It is the same whether you drive, take a train, or bus, or if you fly.  These are the issues you need to address:

1. Research policies for transporting pets because each company may have differing rules.
2. Make sure your pet is current on vaccinations and has been vetted for health issues before you travel.
3. Get a carrier that your pet will be comfortable in because most transportation will require them to be contained. There needs to be enough room for him to turn around and stand up in.
   
   
   
4. Pack plenty of supplies for the trip.  Things like food and water, treats, beds or blankets, toys that your pet loves will make him feel more comfortable.
5. Consider your pet's temperament.  If you pet gets anxious, consider some form of relaxant to help destress you pet. There are numerous calming aids on the market and your vet may also have recommendations.
6. Be sure to make an emergency plan with contacts, veterinary clinics and vets along the way if you need them.
7. Keep your pet controlled with a harness and leash anytime you are out of the vehicle to prevent accidents.

If taking a road trip, be sure to research pet friendly accommodations to stay at and plan your route to include pet friendly locations to share with your pet. Look for dog parks along the way to stretch their legs and exercise.  Find pet friendly restaurants and cafes where you and your pet can eat and watch people.  

Camping is always a fun outdoors experience to share with your pet and there are many pet friendly campsites to research.  Also check into national parks that allow pets that are leashed.

Dogs love beach locations, hiking trails, and some even love boat trips.  Decide what your pet can tolerate in terms of energy and anxiety around people.

I have to tell you that even with all the things you need to be sure to check out and all the things you have to do extra, traveling with your pet is an experience you will enjoy and look back on with fond memories forever.

The Transformative Power of Pets: How Owning a Pet Boosts Your Mental Health

Owning a pet can bring immense joy, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives. But did you know that the benefits of having a pet extend beyond just companionship? Research has shown that pets play a significant role in improving our mental health and overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore in-depth the various ways in which having a pet can positively impact our mental health.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety:

Emotional support: 

Pets provide a constant source of emotional support, offering a listening ear and non-judgmental companionship during challenging times. Whether it's a cat curling up on your lap or a dog resting its head on your lap, the presence of a pet can be incredibly comforting. Just petting or cuddling with a furry friend can release endorphins and reduce stress.

Stress reduction: 

Interacting with pets has been shown to lower levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, leading to a more relaxed state of mind. Engaging in activities like playing fetch, grooming, or simply watching fish swim in an aquarium can distract us from our worries and help us unwind.

Calming presence: 

The simple act of stroking a pet can promote the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with reducing stress and anxiety. The rhythmic motion of petting a cat or dog can have a soothing effect, slowing down our heart rate and inducing a sense of calm.

Alleviating Depression and Loneliness:

Combatting loneliness: 

Pets offer a sense of companionship, particularly for individuals living alone, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. Their presence provides a constant source of comfort and emotional connection, reducing the risk of depression. Pets offer unconditional love and acceptance, creating a bond that can fill a void and provide a sense of purpose.

Increasing social interactions: 

Owning a pet can facilitate social interactions with fellow pet owners or during activities such as dog walks, which can enhance social connections and decrease depressive symptoms. Pets can act as conversation starters, breaking down barriers and making it easier to engage with others, ultimately reducing feelings of social anxiety and promoting a sense of belonging.

Responsibility and purpose: 

Taking care of a pet can provide a sense of purpose, promoting a daily routine and structure that can be especially beneficial for individuals struggling with depression. The responsibility of feeding, grooming, and exercising a pet gives a sense of accomplishment and a reason to get out of bed each day, instilling a sense of purpose and helping individuals focus on something beyond themselves.

Enhancing Physical Health:

Encouraging exercise: 

Dogs, in particular, require regular exercise, which promotes physical activity for their owners as well. Engaging in activities like walking, running, or playing with a pet can improve cardiovascular health and boost overall fitness. Regular exercise not only benefits physical health but also releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Lowering blood pressure: 

The presence of a pet has been associated with reduced blood pressure, leading to a lower risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. Studies have shown that simply petting a dog or cat for a few minutes can lower blood pressure and contribute to a healthier heart.

Boosting immunity: 

Pets, especially when introduced early in life, can have a positive effect on the development of a child's immune system. Research suggests that children exposed to pets are less likely to develop allergies and asthma. The presence of pets introduces a variety of microbes into the environment, which can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of allergies later in life.

Providing Emotional Support:

Unconditional love: 

Pets offer unconditional love and acceptance, creating a safe space for individuals to express their emotions freely without fear of judgment or rejection. They provide a non-judgmental presence and unwavering support, offering comfort during difficult times and helping to alleviate feelings of anxiety, sadness, or anger.

Emotional regulation: 

Interacting with a pet can help regulate emotions, providing comfort during times of distress and promoting a sense of emotional well-being. Petting a cat, for example, can release dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and happiness, helping to stabilize moods and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Mindfulness and presence: 

Caring for a pet encourages living in the present moment, focusing on their needs and providing an opportunity to practice mindfulness. Whether it's grooming, playing, or observing their behavior, pets can help us become more attuned to the present, promoting a sense of calm, reducing ruminating thoughts, and increasing overall mental well-being.

Promoting Emotional Development:

Developing empathy: 

Taking care of a pet requires understanding their needs and emotions, fostering empathy and compassion in pet owners. By being attuned to their pet's emotions, owners learn to recognize and respond to the feelings of others, promoting empathy not only towards animals but also towards fellow humans.

Building self-esteem: 

The sense of responsibility and the ability to provide for a pet's well-being can boost self-esteem and self-worth. As pet owners witness their pets thriving under their care, they gain a sense of accomplishment and pride, contributing to a positive self-image and increased self-confidence.

Sense of purpose: 

Owning a pet provides individuals with a purposeful role, as they become responsible for another living being. The daily tasks of feeding, grooming, and providing affection create a sense of fulfillment and happiness. A pet relies on the owner for their well-being, creating a reciprocal bond that fosters a sense of purpose and a feeling of being needed.

Having a pet can have a profound impact on our mental health, offering a range of benefits from stress reduction and alleviating loneliness to enhancing physical health and emotional well-being. The bond formed with a pet can provide us with companionship, unconditional love, and a sense of purpose. By reducing stress, combating loneliness, promoting physical health, providing emotional support, and fostering emotional development, pets contribute to a healthier and happier life. So, if you're considering adding a pet to your family, remember that they not only bring joy and laughter but also have the power to transform your mental well-being.

Disaster Preparedness for Pets: How to Keep Your Pets Safe

 

It is springtime here in Oklahoma and that always means bad weather and possible tornadoes. When you live here, you have to think about what to do and how to do it if there is a weather emergency.

It appalls me that so many people don't take care of their pets during any emergency. I do understand that you need to take care of yourself first before you can take care of any other being, but your pets depend on you to keep them safe, so you need to include them in your plans during any disaster.

During Katrina, my heart broke watching all those pets left behind to die or to suffer hunger and anxiety because they no longer know how to care for themselves. When we domesticated dogs, we made a pact with them that by bonding with us, we would be their pack leader and protect them.

You did not see much of that during Katrina. You often don't see much of that during any current emergency now either. We have taken away our pets ability to fend for themselves but in an emergency, we think they can take care of themselves. How does that work?

Anyway, today's post is all about disaster preparedness for your pets. As a pet owner, it's important to ensure that your family pet is protected during natural disasters and emergencies. Whether it's a tornado, hurricane, earthquake, or fire, you need to have a plan in place to keep your pet safe. Here's a guide to disaster preparedness for pets.

Creating a Disaster Preparedness Plan for Pets

The first step in disaster preparedness for pets is to create a plan. This should include a list of items to pack in an emergency kit, as well as a plan for evacuating your home with your pet.

• Plan ahead: Take the time to research potential disasters in your area and the evacuation routes available to you and your pet. Create a list of potential shelters or hotels that are pet-friendly.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Gather essential items for your pet such as food, water, medication, and identification. Additionally, include a leash, a carrier or crate, and a favorite toy or blanket.
• Microchip your pet: Ensure your pet has proper identification, and consider microchipping your pet. This can help reunite you with your pet if you become separated.
• Create an evacuation plan: Have a plan in place for evacuating your home with your pet. Decide on a meeting point outside the home in case you become separated, and practice the evacuation with your pet beforehand.
• Stay informed: Stay informed about emergency alerts in your area and any updates from authorities. Have a battery-powered radio or mobile device to stay connected.

Taking Care of Your Pet During a Disaster

During a disaster, it's important to ensure that your pet stays safe and calm. Here are some tips to help you take care of your pet during an emergency:

• Keep your pet with you: If you need to evacuate, take your pet with you. Never leave your pet behind.
• Comfort your pet: Pets may become stressed or anxious during a disaster. Provide comfort by speaking softly and offering a familiar toy or blanket.
• Monitor your pet's behavior: Keep an eye on your pet's behavior, as they may be frightened or disoriented. Be patient and provide reassurance.
• Watch for hazards: After a disaster, watch out for hazards such as broken glass or sharp debris. Keep your pet on a leash or in a carrier to prevent them from getting injured.
• Contact a veterinarian: If your pet is injured, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible. Keep a list of emergency contacts handy.

Creating a Pet-Friendly Emergency Kit

In addition to the items mentioned earlier, there are several other items you may want to include in your pet's emergency kit:

• Disposable litter trays and litter
• Disposable food and water bowls
• Towels or blankets
• First aid kit for pets
• Waste bags
• Paper towels
• Extra collar and leash
• Medications and medical records
• Updated photos of your pet
• Contact information for your veterinarian
  

                                    Get a free Pet Preparedness Tip Sheet here.

By being prepared, you and your family pets will be safe and secure during any emergency and you all will be able to return home together once it is safe to do so.

Fostering and Adopting Pets Saves Lives

I am a huge animal advocate.  Every dog I have ever owned was a rescue.  Every cat I ever owned was either a rescue or a stray that decided to live at my home. Pets are such incredible beings and we, as humans, treat them so off-handedly and callously.  They are so much more than "just animals".  They are sentient beings with feelings, thoughts, and desires just like us.  They even understand some of our language. I have written about the need to adopt from shelters here and here before so this post comes as no surprise to anyone.

We as a nation have a serious problem with over-population of pets.  Because of this, thousands of pets are killed every year in shelters.  These innocent lives are lost because of the ignorance of some people.  There is such an aversion to spay and neutering in this country and I can't understand it.  Research clearly shows that preventing unwanted pregnancies increases the lifespan, the health, and the happiness of pets.

Breeders should have to be licensed and educated on safe and ethical breeding practices.  Backyard breeders need to be banned; with heavy fines for every unwanted animal they discard like trash.

The alternative is to foster and/or adopt pets from shelters and rescues. This has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for a good reason. The simple act of taking in a homeless pet and providing it with a safe and loving home can make a significant difference in the life of an animal. Not only does fostering and adopting help animals, but it also helps to reduce the number of animals that are euthanized in shelters every year. Now, let's explore the benefits of fostering and adopting pets, and how it can save the lives of dogs and cats yearly.

Statistics

According to the ASPCA, approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter animal shelters in the US each year. Out of this number, 3.3 million are dogs and 3.2 million are cats. Unfortunately, not all these animals get to find homes, and around 1.5 million are euthanized yearly. The sad reality is that these animals end up in shelters due to no fault of their own. They may have been abandoned, lost, or surrendered by their previous owners due to a change in circumstances. However, with the help of foster and adoptive families, these animals can find a new chance at life.

When a dog or cat is taken in by a foster or adoptive family, it frees up space in animal shelters, allowing them to take in more animals in need. This, in turn, helps to reduce the number of animals that are euthanized due to overcrowding. By fostering or adopting a pet, you can help to save the life of an animal that might have otherwise been put down.

Benefits of Fostering and Adopting

Fostering and adopting also provide a wide range of benefits for both the animals and their new families. Animals that have been through a traumatic experience such as being abandoned or surrendered often have behavioral issues that can make it harder for them to find permanent homes. 

By fostering a pet, you can provide them with a temporary home and help them overcome their issues. This, in turn, makes it easier for them to be adopted by a permanent family. Adopting a pet also comes with benefits such as providing companionship, reducing stress levels, and even improving physical health.


Another benefit of fostering and adopting is that you can save money compared to buying a pet. Most animal shelters charge a small fee for fostering or adopting a pet, which covers the cost of vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and other medical expenses. In contrast, buying a pet from a breeder can cost thousands of dollars, and the pet may not even be guaranteed to be healthy or free from genetic disorders.

Breeders and responsibilities

As stated earlier in this post, we need to look backyard breeders who put money ahead of the animals. This is unethical and usually ends badly for the animal and/or the person who "buys" that pet. You can help to reduce the demand for breeding pets simply by adopting or fostering from shelters. 

The breeding of dogs and cats for commercial purposes often results in inhumane treatment of animals, and many of the offspring are sold to pet stores or online marketplaces, which perpetuates the cycle. By fostering or adopting, you can help reduce the demand for breeding and promote the adoption of homeless pets.

So you see you can help to save the lives of dogs and cats yearly by providing a temporary or permanent home for an animal in need and you can help reduce the number of animals that are euthanized in shelters due to overcrowding.

 Additionally, fostering and adopting come with many benefits for both the animals and their new families. So, if you are considering getting a pet, I encourage you to look into fostering or adopting from your local animal shelter. You could be saving a life and making a significant difference in the life of an animal in need.