SUMMERTIME IS here and, for many of you, travel plans are under way. If your pet is included in these plans here are some suggestions to keep in mind: @ Vaccinations: For your pet's protection make sure all vaccinations are up to date and your animal is in good health. Rabies vaccination is re- quired for travel into the United States and many other countries. A signed certificate by your veterinarian is necessary 30 days prior to travelling. For foreign travel check with the embassy of the country you are visiting for entry requirements. Ask a Veterinarian DR. ELIZABETH RICHARDS DR. TERR! CLEMETT Current health certificates are often necessary. @ Identification: Name tags that include your home and destination address are important in case you and your pet are separated. A_ current photograph can be invaluable to aid with identification of a lost pet. One of the best methods of identification is a tattoo number registered with your veterinarian. Make sure you know the aumber. @ Air travel: Your pet should be contained in an approved carrier. Some airlines allow pets to travel with their owners in the passenger cabin, in which case the carrier should fit under the seat. Otherwise they will be in a heated, pressurized cargo area of the plane. Bring the carrier into the louse a few days before you leave to allow the pet to get used to it. Sedation may be advisable depending on your animal’s age, temperament and health. Your veterinarian can advise you. Try to book a nonstop flight to reduce travel time and stress. @ Car travel: If you travel by car, consider keeping your pet in a carrier to minimize the chance for mishap. Many dogs love to hang their head out the window while you drive, but this is not advisable as it can predispose to ear, eye and nose infections. To prevent metion sickness, don’t overfeed your pet while travelling. Medication may be necessary to control motion sickness in some animals. Heat stroke is the most danger- ous summer hazard. Never leave your pet in the car even if the windows are open. Heat stroke happens quickly and is often fatal. If you suspect this has occurred, reduce the body temperature im- mediately using cool water, en- courage water intake and take your pet to the nearest veterinarian. @ Routine: Keep to your pet’s regular schedule as much as possible. The brand of food aad the amount given should remain the same to avoid gastrointestinal upsets. Food spoils quickly in the heat so don’t leave it out. Make fresh water easily available. If bottled water is necessary for you where you’re travelling it’s necessary for your pet too. If your pet is on regular medication, be sure to take an adequate supply with you as ob- taining it while travelling may be difficult. @ Heartworm prevention: Heartworm disease is caused by a worm that lives in the dog’s heart and adjoining blood vessels. The adult worms produce larvae called microfilarize which are in- gested by the mosquito and transmitted to other dogs. This disease has been prevalent in many areas of the world. Until recently it has not been a problem in British Columbia, but the Okanagan is now considered to be endemic. Heartworm. infected dogs can be treated; however, it is costly and potentially dangerous. Preventive Photo submitted BEFORE TAKING your pet on a trip, be sure you know what vaccinations are necessary and whether there are any other requirements of the destination location. medication is recommended and available through your veterinarian. A blood test is nec- essary prior to administering medication. @ Stay at home: If your pet is not a good travel- ler perhaps leaving it at home with a pet sitter or a boarding kennel would be more appropriate. These accommodations should be booked well in advance to avoid disappointment. Make sure to leave a_ travel itinerary and the name of your veterinarian in case of emergen- cies. Be sure to inquire about specific vaccinations required at the facility you have chosen. ADOPT-A-PET This space has been sponsored by STONG'S to assist the SPCA in finding homes fer these animals available for adoption. For more information, please call SPCA 922-4622. “MIKE” Shep (M) Approx. 2 yrs. CATERING TO YOUR PETS EVERY NEED “MOPPET” Maltese (N/M) Approx. 7 yrs. ~ “PEPPI” “C Maltese (N/M) Approx. 7 yrs. Airedale (N/M) Approx. 10 yrs. A fult setection of Pet Foods including NO-NAME & PRESIDENT’S CHOICE 15% OFF REGULAR PRICE CASE LOT WEST VANCOUVER 2491 MARINE DRIVE LYNN VALLEY 1199 LYNN VALLEY RD. DEEP COVE . 415 NORTH DOLLARTON HIGHWAY a Pooche Hut [evasep wonoars | 2951 Lonsdale, North Van All Breeds of Dogs © Clipping Service * Grooming Open Tuesday to Saturday 8:00am to 4:00 pm 985-3232 Howe Sound PET SERVICES LTD. Complete Grooming & Boarding Services Chris Buchanan, President of Howe Sound Pet Services is pleased to announce the addition of SUZANNE GIBBINS (formerly of the Cove Clippers) to our grooming staff. Suzanne brings with her 17 years of precision quality grooming. If you wish an appointanent with Suzanne or any of our qualified stylists call us at: 921-8770 6363 Bruce St., Horseshoe Bay, W. Vancouver, B.C.