subject: Pet Travel -- These Two Things Will Keep Your Pet Happy and You Sane [print this page] Pet Travel -- These Two Things Will Keep Your Pet Happy and You Sane
It was over three years ago when I said goodbye to Ohio and loaded up my old Dodge clunker and headed south. Florida was my hopeful destination. Of course, Supa my cat and companion of nine years was to share this long journey with me. I placed him in his carrier, front and center next to my driver's seat. He was also given a light sedative that the veterinarian suggested would keep him calm during the trip. It didn't work! Within the first hour my lovely furry friend began whining and never stopped until we reached Georgia where we spent the night. The second leg of the trip, from Georgia to Florida, was even more grueling and nerve-racking as Supa continued to cry with no letup.
What was the problem? Could I have done anything differently other than regular pit stops for water, food, and exercise? I had uprooted him from his home, and he was letting me know in no uncertain terms he was upset.
Earlier this year I faced the same scenario-another two-day trip with Supa. Happily, there was no whining or crying. His disposition was calm and uneventful-the way I like it. I asked myself--what was different this time compared to the last trip? The following two things made all the difference in the world:
1.Bigger carrier or crate--I had purchased a larger carrier that allowed Supa to stand and turn around. It even had a small tray for water and a small amount of food. The old carrier had been much too small with no room for him to stand up.
2.Bach Rescue Remedy Spray--I sprayed Bach Rescue Remedy Spray into Supa's mouth as we started the trip; and a few times thereafter. The natural stress relief spray kept him quiet and undisturbed throughout the entire drive. Unlike the mild sedative that only worked for a short span of time, the spray worked continuously.
When you travel make sure you have the right size carrier or crate. It is a kindness to your pet! Also, I recommend the use of Rescue Remedy Spray to keep your pet calm. I was told by the health store I purchased the spray from to spray directly into the animal's mouth. However, there are other recommended ways to use this with your pet that you may prefer.
The Bach Spray is a natural stress reliever made of original flower essences. Interestly, I just found out that this spray can also calm us humans down. Many people use it in trauma situations as well as stressful situations like taking exams, family upsets, and dentist appointments, etc.; double benefits for your buck.
So next time you travel, set the cruise and relax with your pet while you enjoy the open road! I did.
