Tips On Traveling With Your Pets

MT.PLEASANT, Mich. – Warmer weather means more time spent in your car, heading on vacation with your family. Sometimes your family includes those of the four-legged variety. Whether it is to the beach, the lake house, the campsite, or just the vet's office, it is always important to make sure that furry-friends are comfortable and stay stress free! Here are some tips on traveling with your pets, to make sure everybody in your family has a safe and enjoyable summer!

• Pack a frozen bowl of water that your pet can lick to keep cool. This is a great way for them to stay hydrated without you having to worry about water spilling all over the car. No mess = happy dog owner! 

• DO NOT leave your pet alone in the vehicle! Even when the windows are left down on a warm day, the temperature inside of a car can rise within a matter of minutes.

• Bring along a comfort item for your pet. A familiar item like their favorite blanket, bone, or toy will help them to relax during a long ride.

• If you're headed out on a long trip, we suggest looking for pet-friendly restaurants, hotels, or dog parks on your route. Just like us, our pets need a break from time to time, so it is important to find locations where you can take them out of the car for a short walk, drink of water, and a snack.

• Heading out on a long road trip? Exercise your pet beforehand! He or she will be much more inclined to rest during the drive, so get out there and play fetch with Fido for a stress free outing!

• If you are headed out on a long journey, be sure your pet is up to date on all vaccinations to protect them against any possible threats. Especially if you plan on driving through different climate zones. For example, if you live in the Midwest and you are driving to the South, make sure your dog or cat is up to date on all heart worm and flea/tick medications!

• Dogs and cats should not roam around the vehicle; use a crate, carrier, or harness that can be anchored to the vehicle. This is the best way to avoid distractions for the driver and to protect your pet in the unfortunate event of a crash. 

By following these easy tips, you and your pooch or feline will have a relaxing drive, no matter where you go! Do you have any tips on traveling with your pets that you would like to share? Post them on our Facebook or Twitter, and use the hashtag; #GraffPetTips ! At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

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