Welcome to Locally Grown! Locally Grown introduces you to the people and stories behind local Lake County businesses. Have you met this month’s featured business owner, Jami-Lyn Derse, DVM? Dr. Derse is the owner of Veterinary Housecall Care, LLC and she is here today with a guest post sharing some tips for safe road trips with pets.

My family takes a lot of road trips to northern Wisconsin all year round, but especially in the summer. We’re used to packing up the car with our dogs. Along with my husband, Baruch Caballero, an ER veterinarian, and our daughter Juliana. We also take our German Shorthaired Pointer, Emma, and Golden Retriever, Birdie. Don’t tell our two tabby cats, but we always leave them at home!

I’m often asked about road tripping with pets. Here are some tips for a safe trip.

Safe Road Trips with Pets

• Comfort is Key: When traveling with dogs, make sure they are comfortable riding in the car. Some dogs are very fearful of car rides and are therefore not good candidates for road trips. Keeping them in the back seat or back of an SUV is best. Small dogs can be kept in a carrier if it makes them feel comfortable and secure. Keep the car a cool, comfortable temperature. You can roll down the window so they can sniff outside, but do not open it enough for them to hang their whole head or body out while you are driving.
• Packing List: Bring a collar or harness, leash, water and food bowls, dog food, first aid kit and a blanket for them to lay on in the car.
• Pit Stops: Stop every few hours so they can go to the bathroom and offer small amounts of food and water. Dogs can get car sick just like people can, so giving them a big meal before the trip is not a good idea.
  

• Kids & Pets: Make sure the kids and the dogs are separated. Dogs should not be sitting on kids laps or jumping over the seats.
• Vaccinations, etc.: Your dog should always be up to date on vaccinations, heartworm preventative, and flea and tick medication. However, different parts of the country have specific diseases. It is best to talk to your veterinarian about any trips you are planing with your pets so they can educate you on regional diseases and prevention.
• Leave Cats at Home: Cats typically do not enjoy car rides. Many cats will cry or meow the entire time they are in the car. Of course, there are always exceptions. If you must do so, keep them in a carrier and do not allow them to roam around the car. This can be dangerous both for the cat and the driver.

Dogs love being part of family vacations. Keep these tips in mind as you plan your next summer road trip to make it a safe and enjoyable trip for the whole family–including the canine members.

Check back next week to to learn more about Veterinary Housecall Care’s services, and my traveling pup Rusell’s visit with her.

Dr. Derse is offering 20% off one physical exam/house call visit to Little Lake County Readers, just make sure to mention the Locally Grown feature when you schedule your appointment.

Veterinary Housecall Care, LLC
847-672-7737 | Facebook
Available By Appointment 7 Days A Week

Disclosure: Veterinary Housecall Care, LLC is our featured Locally Grown Business of the Month. This series of features is part of a paid partnership with Little Lake County. Contact littlelakecounty[at]gmail[dot]com if you are interested in featuring your own locally-owned business in our monthly series.

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