Veterinarian's Advice

Dr. Mark Gottschalk, a veterinarian at Wellesley Animal Hospital in Richmond, has recommended the following travel tips:

• Make sure your travel destination allows pets.
• Have the proper travel equipment, such as kennels, crates or pet carriers. If traveling by air or train, consult the carrier for specific requirements.
• If sedating your pet for the trip, consult your veterinarian for an appropriate tranquilizer, and first try the tranquilier at home.
• While traveling, make frequent stops to allow for exercise, food and water.
• Make sure your pet is on a leash at all times when outside the car.
• Never leave your pet unattended in a car, especially in the heat!
• When you reach your destination, confine your pet to a small area — such as the bathroom — to allow it to become familiar with its new surroundings and to recover from any stress of traveling.

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