Pets at the Cottage

5 April 2011 On The Water

Taking the family pet to the cottage requires some planning and extra precautions. The area around a cabin can be a dangerous place for a cat or dog.

On The Road – Traveling With a Pet

Traveling in a vehicle can be stressful for the family pet.  It is in everyone’s best interest to follow the following advice.

A small meal before you hit the road will put some food in your pet’s stomach and reduce the chances of it becoming carsick.

Place the pet in the back of the vehicle and keep it in a travel cage or secured with a special pet seat belt.

Keep the temperature in the vehicle at a comfortable level.

Keep the music down.  Your pet has very sensitive ears.

Plan regular food and toilet breaks that are convenient for both you and the pet.

Attach the harness or chain to your pet before you leave the vehicle at a rest stop.  The animal may decide it wants to explore the new surroundings, and you will lose valuable time trying to get it back into the car.

Rest stops are busy and confusing places.  Watch your pet at all times.  It is at risk of being hit by another vehicle or getting lost.

Around The Cottage – How to Keep a Pet Safe

The fields and forest around the cottage can be dangerous places for your pet.

Get the contact information for the nearest veterinarian in case your pet runs into trouble.

Get the proper collars and medication to help fight ticks and fleas.  Inspect your pet’s fur every day for parasites.

Wildlife encounters often end badly for the family pet.  Porcupines and skunks will quickly ruin the holiday. Wolves, coyotes, and bears will kill your pet if they feel threatened.

Rabies is rare but always a threat.  Ensure the pet has had all of its shots.

Trigger-happy neighbours may mistake your pet for another animal.  Don’t let the family pet wander off your property and get shot, or injured in a trap.

Blastomycosis is a fungus found is some cottage regions and can be fatal for dogs if not treated immediately.  If the dog gets sick after a recent trip to the cottage, make sure the veterinarian is aware that the animal has been in the woods.

On The Water – Pet Safety in the Boat

Safety on the water is just as important for the family pet as it is for everyone else.
A pet lifejacket is a good idea when the animal is in the boat, especially in areas with strong currents and cold water.

Remove collars and chains before allowing the pet to swim.  Submerged tree branches can easily hook the pet’s collar and cause the animal to drown. Inspect your dog for leeches after it has been in the water.

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