Submitted by Lisa Yackel, CVPM, PHR

As I have shared in the past, our dog travels with us whenever we hit the road for a trip.  We are lucky that she is a great traveler and does not have any problem with motion sickness.  Although we know better, she likes to travel between us on the seat with her head on my husband’s leg.  We know she should be in her crate (which is stored in the trunk for when we get to our destination) or in a car harness, but we didn’t start her as a puppy that way and she would not handle the confinement at this late stage in her life.  To be honest, we enjoy the “bonding” time with her. 

Many of our clients are not as lucky.  Statistics have actually found that 17% of dogs get motion sickness.  Their owners come into the hospital asking what to do about their pet’s vomiting or general distress in the car when traveling.  The travel might even just be coming to our hospital for their pet’s veterinary visit or it might be on extended trips. If you want to take your dog along on trips, vacations…sometimes just to visit friends nearby—but can't because your canine companion gets sick when he travels, there is a medication that works well on our canine patients.  (Unfortunately, it is for dogs only.)

Cerenia is one of the medications we prescribe.  The first FDA-approved medicine that prevents motion sickness in dogs, Cerenia works 93% of the time.  It is safe and effective and can be used in dogs 16 weeks of age or older.  

This link, https://www.pahsavings.com/CERENIAHOLIDAY/RequestAndVerify.aspx  is now offering a $5.00 rebate to be used at your veterinarian’s office. 

I have also included a list we suggest for our clients about general travel.  Before some of our readers point it out to me, I do realize I am hypocritical in not following the very first item on the list!

VeTeam Advisor's Top 10 Things Owners Forget When Traveling with Pets.

1. A method of confinement for the pet (in the care and at the destination)

2. Identification (eg, tags and microchips)

3. Proof of rabies vaccination.

4. Contact information for the pet's regular veterinarian.

5. Finding out what rules apply for their particular travel plans (eg, airline rules, health certificates,   

   quarantine)

6. Making reservations or obtaining a list of accommodations that will accept pets before starting out.    

 7. Planning for pet rest stops and potty breaks.

8. Bringing the pet's usual food along, or ensuring its usual food will be available at the travel

    destination.

9. Taking along food and water bowls, familiar toys and bedding and extra leashes.

10. Planning for pet care at the destination during times the owner will be unable to bring the pet along

      (eg, restaurants or amusement parks)

I hope this information helps.  Safe travels for you and your whole family during the holidays!