Healthcare Traveler - January 2009 - (Page 8)

Paws for Thought Frosty paws 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 When considering an assignment in a vacation destination, who says that you need to head to the beach? Let it snow. Kim Kilmer T he ski resort areas in this country are spectacular even for a person who only enjoys the indoor activities. For those outdoor enthusiasts, opportunities abound. These areas may be more suited to enjoyment with a canine companion, but I have known many a cat that enjoyed trying to catch falling snow while sitting on the inside of their favorite windows. Ten years ago, I decided to get away from it all and accepted a seasonal career assignment in Vail, Colorado. After I learned how to breathe in the high altitude, I embraced mountain life for myself and my two Pembroke Welsh Corgis. We hiked, we learned that herding dogs will try to herd deer and elk (that’s a whole other article), and we were all in the best shape of our lives. How is bringing your pet along to a winter resort area different than other assignments you may have taken together? In particular, what types of unique safety issues must you consider? Vertically challenged To begin with, I learned that vertically challenged breeds, mine included, are not well suited for traversing soft snow. It should not be difficult to determine that with a snow pack of 22 inches, a powder depth of 10 inches, and a Corgi leg length of 6 inches, the terrain might not exactly be a match for this breed. This was a learning experience. I assure you, the first time both my dogs got landlocked due to these conditions, it provided a great source of concern— and amusement (once they were safely released, of course). Ask Kim I’m about to start my career as a travel nurse. I have three cats that hate their carriers and become little fluffy balls of gnashing teeth and razor nails when any attempt is made to put them inside. My only option is to take them by car. What is the best way to get cats in a carrier? Do I need to pre-medicate them? Should I put them in separate carriers? Do they need food, water, and a litter box while in the car? Do cats ever get used to moving? — Nicole Coat length What types of unique safety issues must you consider in a winter resort area? It was not uncommon to see folks skiing with small dogs warmly tucked in backpacks or dogs as companions for cross-country skiers and those who were on snowshoes. Well-mannered dogs were also accepted in town and shop owners often allow them in their stores. As long as leash laws were followed and respect for the environment was in evidence, dogs and their owners were welcomed members of this unique community. 8 Healthcare Traveler January 2009 The second important consideration is the length of your dog’s coat. Breeds with no undercoat may need to become poster children for appropriately sized doggy outerwear, while breeds with long hair on their feet might need booties. Snow that cakes on dogs’ paws can be a source of discomfort for the animals and very time consuming for owners to remove. Safety first If you have never lived in the wilderness or where wildlife is prevalent, it is essential to be an advocate for your animal’s safety and health—even more than usual. Think about contacting the Department of Natural Resources, National Park Service, or other similar agencies to learn more about your adopted community and surrounding areas before you arrive. » Use individual carriers. To acclimate the cats, keep the crates in your house, leaving the doors open, and entice them to visit by using treats. Once they go in and out, close the doors for short periods of time to get them used to the confinement. After they are comfortable inside, start taking them for short car rides. If your vehicle will accommodate a large, secure cage that holds water and a litter box, consider that. I am not a fan of medications, but you can consult with your veterinarian regarding that topic. » 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 http://www.healthcaretraveler.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Healthcare Traveler - January 2009

Healthcare Traveler - January 2009 Editor’s Desk Contents By the Numbers Paws for Thought Field Notes In a Flash Med Ec-cerpts Dream Destinations Nursing from the Heart Drug Update Professional Update Clinical Tips On Assignment Cityscape Name It Advertiser’s Index Contest Rules When In… It’s in the Bag Dot.com Tax Facts Big Deals Starter’s Kit Going the Distance Allied Corner Classifieds Tales from the Road

Healthcare Traveler - January 2009

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