A lifelong resident of Nevada County, I’ve picked up a travel tip or two over the years. Here are my top 5 for navigating your travels with and without your pet this winter.
1. Keep Your Pooch Protected
If you’re planning a play date in the cold or snow with your pups, make sure you’re monitoring their exposure time. Some dog breeds can tolerate cold weather better than others. While a thick-coated Husky or Malamute may be able to romp in the snow for hours, a small short-haired toy breed might be only able to withstand 15 minutes outdoors. Your dog’s size, body fat, coat type, age and breed all factor into how long they’re able to endure the elements.
2. Waterproof Your Pet
While that dog sweater may have seemed like a good idea, a knit top can actually make matters worse by absorbing the cold moisture. Instead, try waterproof vests and booties – even a dab of a thick, natural wax across your dog’s paw pads can help protect their feet from the snow and rock salt, which can sometimes irritate sensitive paws. Not sure how long your pet can stay outdoors in the winter? Check with your veterinarian.
3. Play it Smart on the Road
If you’re planning a long road trip with your pets, don’t leave them in the car for any extended amount of time, and consider crating for their safety and comfort. While it may seem like a warm and safe environment for your pet, a parked car in frigid temperatures can quickly turn into a cold steel cage for an animal locked inside.
Do pack a popup travel water bowl to help keep your pet well-hydrated on the trail or on the road. If flying with your cat or dog, pack their favorite toy, blanket or a small clothing item with your scent to help ease their fears. A mild anti-nausea medication can also help alleviate any anxiety and make for a smoother trip. But, again, check with your veterinarian before administering any pet medication.
4. Bring Cats in From the Cold
In the winter when temps drop to 45 degrees or below, make sure to bring your cats inside when temperatures plunge. Cats can be susceptible to frostbite on their tails, toes and ears. Worst case: They might succumb to hypothermia. If your felines are wandering free spirits, help keep them warm by insulating an outdoor shelter with loose, dry straw or shredded newspaper. You can also find insulated, heated houses when caring for ferals.
And in the case of animals in aquariums and tanks, don’t forget to monitor the thermostat in your home while you’re away. A cold house, particularly in a power outage, can spell disaster to reptiles, fish and amphibious pets.
5. Navigate the Sacramento Airport Like a Pro
Driving and parking at Sacramento Airport can be a real headache, especially during peak travel times.
If you’re picking up someone, ask them to wait for you at Departures versus Arrivals, since the Departures deck is usually less crowded. And if you arrive early, rather than get shooed away by security and have to swing a few laps around the airport until your passenger arrives, pull into the gas station at the entrance to the airport. There’s an overflow waiting area, where you can park, use the restroom or fill up your gas tank while waiting for your passenger.
Even better, contact me for pricing and availability to book your next airport drop-off or pickup.
Wherever your travels take you this year, I hope 2023 is getting off to a great start for you!
Thanks for your continued support,
Kayle