Healthcare Traveler - September 2008 - (Page 8)

Paws for Thought Pet socials E N S U R I N G P E T H E A LT H AT H O M E A N D O N T H E R O A D Pet functions, fairs, and events are becoming increasingly popular. Try some out with your pal this fall. Kim Kilmer E ver want to participate in a pet walk for charity? Go to pet fairs with vendors? Attend a blessing of the pets at local churches? Perhaps watching events at local country fairs is more your style. Or, you might prefer to head to a pet picnic to help rescued animals or catch up with friends during doggie happy hours at local restaurants. for the location. Check with your veterinarian to make sure your pet is on the proper preventatives for the locale or that you are taking safe topical preparations for you and your pet. What is the footing like? A good many of our pets spend their days on carpet or grass. If you have a pet that has tender feet, you might consider exercising on the same type of ground to build their tolerance prior to the event. You can also purchase products that protect their pads from damage. Pet booties are available in many sizes. In addition, there are several preparations in cream or gel form that can be applied to their paws. Check with your veterinarian to see what might work for your specific type of animal. Ask Kim I want my terrier mix, Lucy, to accompany me on my flight to my next assignment. I have checked with the airline and am aware of the rules and regulations. My concern is a long layover. Is there any way to walk my pet? Can someone from the airline walk her? Any advice on flying with my dog is greatly appreciated! — Lelia R. These events provide a spectacular social setting for those who share a passion for pets. Chances are, your hometown or adopted community has a number of pet functions for you and your furry friend to enjoy as the weather cools down. These events provide a spectacular social setting for those who share a passion for pets. To enjoy them to the fullest, find out answers to the following questions so you’ll be prepared for anything that may come your way. Will you be spending the day? While some functions are short in duration, others may be full-day events. If time is a concern, consider bringing an enclosure for your pet so that he or she can spend some downtime in a familiar place. Most pet supply stores and online retailers offer several pet enclosures that fold for travel. Is there a water source? Does the site provide shade or cover from the elements? If you know shade is not available or cover is uncertain, pack your own. A small beach umbrella or one of a number of small, packable pop up shelters will do the trick. If you choose a solid shelter, be sure it offers proper ventilation for the location. Many public pet functions, especially dog events, offer community water bowls or advertise that hoses will be available to deliver water. Neither is sanitary nor safe. I can’t stress enough the importance of taking your own water and water bowl or bottle. If Lucy is riding under the seat in the cabin with you, get directions out of the airport when you land so that you can take her outside. You will have to go through security again when entering the building so gauge your time. Most airports require dogs to be kept in their carriers while inside the airport. If she is being flown as baggage, find a non-stop flight to your destination. You never want anyone other than yourself to handle your dog. Most dogs are not comfortable with flying and a nervous dog should not be handled by airline staff. There are too many variables and potential for error. » Attention travelers! Do you have a question for Kim? Send it to plederman@advanstar.com and it could appear in the next edition of “Paws for Thought.” www.healthcaretraveler.com Does the function require proof of vaccinations? While most pet event coordinators try to execute safe shows, many do not have the staff or capability to confirm Will bugs be attending the event? If you’re at an outdoor event, be aware of what types of insects are the norm 8 Healthcare Traveler September 2008 http://www.healthcaretraveler.com

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Healthcare Traveler - September 2008 Editor's Desk Contents In a Flash Paws for Thought Field Notes Regional Differences in the ED Joining Together Drug Update Clinical Tips Cityscape Advertiser's Index Name It Travel Tips Big Deals Tax Facts Dot.com Contest Rules Allied Corner Going the Distance Classifieds Tales from the Road

Healthcare Traveler - September 2008

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