Traveling with pets can be an exciting adventure, but it also introduces new risks. Whether you're taking a road trip, visiting family, or exploring the great outdoors, pets can encounter unfamiliar hazards that may be toxic. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, making it the perfect time to learn how to protect your furry companion from poisoning risks while traveling. At Laurel Pet Resort, we want to make sure your pet stays safe, no matter whether they are enjoying pet boarding with us or traveling with you wherever you go.
Travel Hazards for Your Pet
When pets are in a familiar environment, it’s easier to control potential toxins. However, traveling exposes them to new dangers. Some common hazards include:
- Hotel and Rental Properties: Cleaning products, pesticides, and rodent control may still be used in pet-friendly accommodations.
- Unfamiliar Foods: People may offer pets scraps or your companion might find harmful foods in new environments.
- Foreign Plants: Different regions may have indoor or outdoor plants that are toxic to cats, dogs, or small mammals.
- Medications in Suitcases: Unsecured luggage may contain prescription or over-the-counter medications that are toxic to pets.
- Car and Air Travel Risks: Antifreeze leaks, air fresheners with essential oils, and spilled food can create dangers inside or around vehicles.
The ASPCA has very handy guides for toxic plants, foods, and products that you can access on their Animal Poison Control website from wherever you travel (as long as you have internet access).
Pet-Friendly Travel Safety Tips
To make sure your pet stays safe while traveling, follow these precautions:
- Pack Pet-Safe Essentials: Bring their own food, water, and bedding to minimize exposure to unfamiliar toxins.
- Secure Medications and Other Products: Keep human medications and travel-size products like toothpaste, mouthwash, or hand sanitizer out of reach.
- Supervise Your Pet Outdoors: Be aware of local plants, standing water, and any rodenticides used in parks or campgrounds.
- Avoid Unfamiliar Food Offerings: Politely decline food from well-meaning strangers and prevent your pet from eating food off the street.
- Check Accommodations for Hazards: Inspect hotels, rentals, or guest homes for any accessible toxins before allowing your pet to explore.
- Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Have the contact info for an emergency vet in your destination area and a pet poison control center like the Pet Poison Helpline.
What to Do If Your Pet is Poisoned While Traveling
If your pet is exposed to something toxic while away from home, try to determine what your pet swallowed and how much. Monitor symptoms for vomiting, drooling, tremors, or lethargy. Call a local veterinarian or poison control center hotline immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional instructs you to do so.
Avoiding Poison Risks While Traveling with Laurel Pet Resort
Traveling with pets requires extra caution, especially when it comes to potential poisoning risks. By taking proactive steps, you can minimize exposure to toxins for a safe journey. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, so take this time to review your travel safety plans and pack accordingly.
Don’t want to worry about the stress of keeping your pet safe while traveling? Board your pet at Laurel Pet Resort in Raytown, MO. We provide pet boarding for dogs, cats, and small mammals like rabbits for Raytown, Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, and surrounding areas. Schedule a stay for your pet today.