Taking your doodle on vacation - are you prepared?

[BG and Gavin]

I was going to post this in the Cottage Doodle group, however since summer is coming I am sure that many people will be travelling with their dogs and may find this information useful.   Here is a list of things that I bring with me to the cottage to ensure I meet Gavin’s (myriad of) needs.

1. A supply of dry food including at least three extra days’ worth
2. Canned food or toppers
3. Treats
4. Chew sticks and toys and balls
5. A binder containing copies of all  health records and insurance information
6. Doggie shampoo
7. Revolution/Frontline or similar and heart worm pills
8. Benadryl
9. Styptic powder
10. Any medication as necessary
11. Peroxide to induce vomiting if necessary
12. Gas-ex for bloat emergency
13. Paw pad conditioner
14. Brush, comb and nail clippers
15. Dog bed
16. Dog towels
17. Thermometer
18. Ear cleaner and drops and cotton pads
19. An extra collar and leash
20. A long line
21. Harness and seat belt
22. Food and water bowls
23. Bottled water for travelling
24. Ingredients for skunk odor removal found here:  http://www.ehow.com/way_5181244_skunk-odor-removal-recipe.html

If you will be in one area for an extended period of time, like at your cottage or trailer, it is a good idea to introduce yourself and your dog to a vet in the area.  In small vacation towns, there are no emergency animal hospitals and some vets will not see your dog in an emergency unless you are already a client.

You will likely not see much of me over the summer, but I will check in from time to time.  Enjoy any vacation you decide to take and keep your doodles safe.  Please feel free to add to this list as it is by no means exhaustive :)

[Seamus & Haidee]

Wow thanks for this great and helpful list. We are taking Seamus to the beach this summer for the first time and it will come in very handy! Any comments on favorite harnesses and seat belts?

[Adrianne Matzkin]

bring lots of water for drinking and to wash sand and salt water out of his eyes. 

[BG and Gavin]

Hi Seamus, there was just a very good discussion on safety belts.  You can read it here:  http://www.doodlekisses.com/profiles/blog/show?id=2065244%3ABlogPos...

[Seamus & Haidee]

thanks so much for the link on safety belts. will get one for summer road trips:)

[Susan, Coby & Chloe]

I have to open this link but I have a great car seat/bed that has a harness and lambswool type removable covering for easy washing. Can also double as a bed when arriving at our destination. It secures in the backseat with a seatbelt and has a harness that attaches to her collar - high enough for her to look out the windows and wide enough for her to lay down. 

[Jennifer and Jack]

Have an amazing summer!!!

[BG and Gavin]

Thanks, Jenn!

[Adrianne Matzkin]

I would add a copy of your doodles shot records and a flashlight with extra batteries - hard to pick up poop in the dark WOL!

Have a great summer!!!

[BG and Gavin]

Great advice Adrianne!

[Camilla and Darwin]

Wow, very comprehensive list!

[Lori, Quincy & Frankie]

Great list.  I don't even have some of those items in my house!  How do you figure out the dose for benadryl and gas-x?

[BG and Gavin]

According to "Dr." Karen who I consulted with last summer, the dose for Benadryl is as follows:  1 mg per lb up to twice daily.  For Gavin that was three 25mg tablets.  I only ended up giving him two for mild itching as it makes them a bit sleepy.  If it was a bee sting emergency however, I would give him the full three tablets.

Maybe someone can chip in with Gas-x dosing info?