Gas prices may limit travel plans this summer, but many Romans are still hoping to get away on some sort of vacation.
Whether it’s a trip to the beach or just a camping trip in the mountains, Rome residents are taking their pets along for the ride.
“Our dog is another member of the family,” said Armuchee resident Robin Tyler. “We wouldn’t dream of leaving her behind.”
So when the Tylers go to Tennessee for a week of rafting and camping with friends, her Weimeraner Anke will be right there with her.
Americans are more active than ever and their pets are no exception. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, 69.1 million households own a pet, mostly a cat or dog. While most people want to take their pets on vacations, it’s important to remember a few things.
“We always have to make special arrangements for Anke to travel with us,” Tyler said. “From hotels to restaurants to our activities, we’ve got to plan ahead to make sure she’ll be safe and comfortable.”
Tyler said planning ahead is the key to traveling with pets. The first thing experts suggest is to decide whether or not your travel plans are suitable for your pet. Keep in mind temperament, illness or physical impairment, suggest experts at pettravel.com. If you have any doubts, talk to your veterinarian.
If you determine it is best for your pet to accompany you, you’ll need to devote extra time to prepare for the journey. For example, you’ll need to have all of the supplies necessary to keep your pet comfortable while away from home, and you’ll need to familiarize yourself with any pet-related restrictions or requirements imposed by airlines, destination countries or states, hotels, etc.
If you decide that your pet should not travel, consider the alternatives: Have a responsible friend or relative look after your pet, board your animal at a kennel, or hire a pet sitter.
When a friend or relative is going to take care of your pet, ask if that person can take your animal into his or her home. Animals can get lonely when left alone. Be sure that your pet is comfortable with the temporary caretaker and his or her home, not to mention any pets that person has.
If you choose to board your pet, get references and inspect the kennel. Your veterinarian or local shelter can help you select a facility.
If you are hiring a pet sitter, interview the candidates and check their references. A pet sitter may be preferable if your pet is timid or elderly and needs the comfort of familiar surroundings during your absence, experts say.
Whatever option you choose, your pet should be up-to-date on all vaccinations and in sound health. If you arrange for someone to care for your pet while you are away, provide the caretaker with the telephone number where you can be reached, the name and telephone number of your veterinarian, and your pet’s medical or dietary needs.
On the road
So you’ve decided that you’re taking Rex and Fifi to Florida.
“The number one thing that you have to do when you transport your pet is to have them restrained,” said Lisa Peterson, a spokeswoman for the American Kennel Club. “There are different ways to do this including a pet crate, a harness connected to a seatbelt or a divider to keep your pets in a particular area of the car.”
Peterson said pets may get nervous or excited and if free to move around in a car, they could injure a passenger or distract the driver.
If taking your pets on a plane, make sure you’re familiar with the proper procedure for individual airlines. Some allow pets in the cabin while others insist on transporting pets as cargo.
Familiarize yourself with all the necessary paperwork and fees before you leave for your trip.
Travel Tips
Petsonthego.com suggests considering the following issues when traveling with your pet.
Money Matters — check for discounted room rates and always inquire about pet fees and deposits.
Pet Etiquette — consider all the faux pas your pet might make and how other travelers may react to those.
Toys — pack toys and treats that will occupy your pet and keep him happy during a layover or times of inactivity.
Pet Emergencies — have a plan in case your pet gets lost on the road or sick during your vacation.
Pets at state parks
Georgia’s state parks and historical sites will be a big attraction for local vacationers looking to save money on gas. But be aware that park regulations are sometimes strictly enforced.
According to the Georgia State Parks official Web site, pets are welcome at state parks and campgrounds if leashed (no longer than six feet) and accompanied by the owner at all times. However, they are not allowed in or around historic sites, lodges, group camps or swimming areas.
Pets are allowed in select cottages with advance reservations. An additional fee may be charged. Kennels are not available and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
State parks in Northwest Georgia include Cloudland Canyon State Park in Lookout Mountain, Fort Mountain State Park in Chatsworth, James H. Floyd State Park in Summerville, Red Top Mountain State Park in Cartersville, John Tanner State Park in Carrollton and Sweetwater Creek State Park in Lithia Springs.
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