Vacation season is in full swing and many pets are joining their owners for family holidays and weekend getaways. The current heat wave, along with driving, can be a dangerous combination for household pets. But, with some simple precautions, animals will be safe — and happy — during these sweltering months.
If the pet is not used to car trips, try a few test runs to help acclimate them for the ride. Spending time in the car while parked and driving to nearby destinations is an easy start. Cats should be kept in a carrier and dogs should be held in a restraining harness, which will help stabilize them if there is sudden movement or an accident.
Feed the pet a little less than normal before a trip. Since too much water can upset their stomachs on the road, limit their intake by giving them ice to chew on instead. Pack some toys and any other favorite items or bedding.
When traveling to places unfamiliar to the animal, have a collar with an identification tag that includes both permanent and vacation addresses and phone numbers. Many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations also offer microchip identification implants.
Although dogs like to stick their heads out of the car window, it is unsafe. Small stones and debris become dangerous projectiles at highway speeds.
Never leave the pet in a car in warm or hot weather. Even with the windows open or parked in the shade, interior temperature can quickly rise to lethal levels.
More information about how to keep pets safe is available at www.response.com.
Receive a free tree
Anyone who joins the National Arbor Day Foundation in August will receive 10 free white flowering dogwood trees. The trees are part of the nonprofit foundation’s Trees for America campaign.
“The white flowering dogwoods will add year-round beauty to your home and neighborhood,” John Rosenow, the foundation’s president, said in a July 31 release. “Dogwoods have showy spring flowers, scarlet autumn foliage and red berries, which attract songbirds all winter.”
The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting — between Oct. 15 and Dec. 10 — with enclosed instructions. The 6- to 12-inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge.
Members will also receive a subscription to the foundation’s bimonthly publication, “Arbor Day,” and “The Tree Book,” along with information about tree planting and care.
To receive the free trees, visit www.arborday.org.
