Summer is ending, and everyone is trying to fit in those last-minute vacations. If you're planning a trip with your pet this summer, it's crucial to understand pet travel safely, especially in extreme weather.

If you find yourself traveling with your pet during times of extreme heat this summer, here are seven tips to get you and your furry friend through.

Be Sure to Prepare

Before you head out, exercise your animal. Car rides can seem very long for your pet, who has no idea where you're going and how long it will take to get there. You also don't want your pal having an accident, so be mindful of what your pet eats and drinks as you head out on the road.

Plan Ahead Packing

Regardless of what kind of pet you have, you'll need to bring along specific provisions. Here is a checklist:

• Food.
• Bowls for food and water.
• Toys.
• Catnip.
• Chew toys.
• Leash, collar, ID tag.
• A few old towels to cover car seats, hotel beds, etc.
• Plastic pick-up baggies to clean up after your pet.
• Litter and litter box for cats.
• Brush and flea/tick comb.
• Treats.
• Crate or carrier.
• Any needed medications.

Medication

Before you leave, make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations. Parasite and pest prevention are essential. If you're going camping, you will need to be particularly aware of ticks. Unfamiliar parasites may pose a threat if you're traveling out of the country.

A first aid kit is a good idea for both yourself and your pet, especially if you are going to be on the road a lot or doing some hiking in the wilderness. Antiseptic, tweezers, and bandages are the minimum that should be in your kit.

On the Road

Before you head off, make sure you've done everything you need to do to make the trip. The last thing you want is a breakdown or even a broken AC along the route.

Buckle up your pet with a pet harness, which acts as a seat belt for pets. If your pet is in a crate or carrier, then this can be strapped in as well. Crates and carriers are essential not only for the car but for wherever you're staying. It can be a safe place for your pet and can act as a bed at your destination. Studies show that pets have a better chance of survival in the event of an accident if they are in a carrier.

Start Early in Your Day

Although we wake up to 80-degree temperatures during the summer months, that sure beats triple digits. Plan accordingly and try to get on the road as early as possible.

Smart Safety

Let your pet out every few hours (on a leash) to walk. Always use a leash. Animals can act differently in new surroundings, and someone may also steal your unleashed pet. If you have a cat, teach them to use a harness and leash before heading out on your trip.

Never Leave Your Pet in the Car Alone

It is never a good idea to leave your pet in the car alone, even if you think it will only be a quick minute. If you're traveling alone, plan bathroom stops in pet-friendly stores like Petco.

Contact Your Vet

Before you head out on vacation with your furry friend it's a good idea to take them in for a checkup to ensure they are healthy and ready to travel.

Contact us today to make an appointment for a wellness visit. At College Road and Carolina Beach Animal Hospitals, we'll assess your pet's risk and make recommendations for testing and vaccination to help provide the best medical care for your pet. We also offer wellness plans to make the best care affordable now, with low monthly payment options.

For all the fun of summer, extreme temperatures don't make the best time for a pet trip. If you find yourself needing to travel when temperatures get high, be sure to take extra precautions to make sure all your passengers (two- and four-legged) travel safely and comfortably!