Here’s a handy guide to keeping your pets safe, healthy, and cared for while you’re away.
🐾 Option 1: Traveling With Your Pet
Taking your pet along on your adventure? Awesome! With a little preparation, your pet can be a great travel buddy.
✅ Travel Checklist for Pet Owners:
- Vaccines & Preventatives: Your pet should be current on vaccines like Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella. Don’t forget parasite prevention—fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are more active in the summer
- ID Tags & Microchips: Double-check that your pet’s ID tags are legible and that your microchip information is current. If your pet isn’t microchipped, now is a great time.
- Comfort Items: Bring your pet’s food, bowls, leash, medications, and a favorite toy or blanket to help ease stress in unfamiliar places.
- Calming Solutions: If your pet gets anxious during travel, talk to us about safe calming supplements or prescription options.
✈️ Tip: If you’re flying, always check with your airline about specific pet policies, carrier size requirements, and paperwork needed.
🏡 Option 2: Leaving Your Pet Behind
Sometimes it’s best for your pet to stay home or board locally while you travel. Whether you choose an in-home pet sitter or a boarding facility, make sure your pet is set up for a safe and comfortable stay.
🐶 Boarding & Pet-Sitter Prep:
- Vaccines Are a Must: Most boarding facilities and sitters require up-to-date vaccines, including Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella (kennel cough). Some also require the Canine Influenza vaccine.
- Flea & Tick Protection: Boarding facilities often require proof of active flea/tick prevention to protect all pets in their care.
- Medication & Instructions: If your pet takes medication or has special needs, leave detailed written instructions and plenty of supplies.
- Emergency Contacts: Provide the sitter or facility with your contact info, your veterinarian’s contact info (that’s us!), and a backup local emergency contact just in case.
⏰ Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
Summer is a busy time at veterinary clinics and boarding facilities, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Book your check-up as early as possible.
- Request refills of any medications your pet may need during your time away.
- Print or request a copy of your pet’s vaccine records—many facilities require proof of vaccination in advance.
🎁 Bonus Tip: Use Our App!
Did you know that with our hospital app, you can:
- Request appointments
- Refill medications
- Access vaccine records on the go
- Earn loyalty rewards
- And more!
If you haven’t downloaded our app yet, now’s the perfect time. It’s like a travel kit for your pet—right on your phone.
📞 We’re Here to Help!
Whether your pet is going with you or staying behind, Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center is here to support your summer plans. From pre-travel exams to vaccine updates and boarding requirements, we’ll make sure your pet is protected and ready for anything.
📅Call us today to schedule your travel appointment or request your pet’s records.
We wish you safe travels and a joyful, tail-wagging summer!