Saturday, May 12, 2007

Travelling With Your Shih Tzu



Article Title: Travelling With Your Shih Tzu
Author: Connie Limon

A lot of Shih Tzu likes to go on adventures, which makes travel
attractive for them. This is their natural hunting instincts
making them want to meet new people and explore new places.
However, it may pose as a problem since taking a Shih Tzu along
during your travels may be inconvenient. Quite a few people are
frightened of dogs and the mess that dogs make while you're
traveling can be very troublesome. It should also be noted that
many lodgings and transportation services don't cater to pets
such as dogs and cats.

Having your Shih Tzu watched over by a professional pet handler
may be needed to take care of your Shih Tzu during the trip. You
also have the option of having your pet stay with a managed
kennel. When checking around for a place for your Shih Tzu to
live while you're away, make sure it is comfortable and clean.
The dogs staying there should also look content and well-taken
care of. A few of these dog kennels allow for you to provide
your Shih Tzu's own sleeping blanket, toy and his favorite
foods for while you're away. Make sure, though, that your Shih
Tzu has had its immunization since it is a regular requirement
for your dog's stay in such places.

Though, if you really insist on your Shih Tzu's company when
traveling, here are a few tips:

- A clean bill of health from your veterinarian. Your vet
should also be able to provide you a certificate for this.

- Buy a sturdy dog carrier. This is a must since you'd rather
not lose your Shih Tzu en route to your destination. A few
airlines have dog carriers available for sale though they can
be quite expensive. Also, remember that some airlines prefer
having your pet in the compartment for luggage. If you really
can't part with your beloved, get a reservation from an airline
that allows pets to remain with you during the flight.

- Your Shih Tzu needs good ventilation to keep him cool. Try to
get air-conditioned cars when traveling cross-country. This is
also true if you are traveling in trains.

- Don't let your Shih Tzu hang his head out the window while
the car is moving. It may be tempting to let your pet play
around, but the risks of falling out or getting hit are still
there.

- Leaving your Shih Tzu inside the car or under the sun is
risky. Heat stroke is a serious danger to your pet and can even
be fatal.

- Never leave your Shih Tzu unattended, especially when he is
in his carrier. He may get stolen or kidnapped. This also goes
for when he's wandering around. Sometimes, Shih Tzu can be too
adventurous and may end up in trouble, or worse, getting you in
trouble.

- Fast pulse, rapid panting, red eyes and gums, excessive
slobbering, feverish temperature or vomiting, means that your
Shih Tzu needs to see a vet quickly. Have cool towels placed on
your Shih Tzu and get to the closest pet clinic as soon as
possible.

- Some countries have specific rules about pet travel. Try to
familiarize yourself with them and try to follow them to avoid
legal troubles later.

- A certificate for rabies vaccination and a notarized local
language certificate from the closest embassy or consulate are
sometimes required, so get one just in case. Better safe than
sorry.

- In preparing for a long trip on the road, ready
identification for your Shih Tzu. A collar with the Shih Tzu's
name, your name and a handy contact number can save you from a
lot of trouble.

- First-aid kits for your Shih Tzu can be easily fixed up.
Remember that some emergencies are special to dogs. A flea or
tick powder is a good addition to this.

- Have a ready supply of your Shih Tzu's favorite doggy treats
during the trip. Make sure to bring more than enough to last
the entire trip to be safe.

- Pack the essentials: clean water, dishes, favorite dog toys,
leash, brush, plastic bags and towels, anything than can help
your Shih Tzu stay happy during the trip.

- Your Shih Tzu should be given the chance to answer the call
of nature every two to three hours so it won't make any
embarrassing messes.

Hopefully, these tips will help you have a better time with
traveling with your Shih Tzu.

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

About The Author: Written by: Connie Limon. Visit us at
http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our helpful
Shih Tzu newsletters. I raise Shih Tzu puppies for pet or show
prospects. Puppies are sold with a health guarantee. Also visit
our Shih Tzu article collection at http://shihtzuarticles.com

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