Utah is full of incredible places to explore during the summer. From mountain trails and lakes to scenic campgrounds and family road trips, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting for you and your pet. But while vacations are exciting, they’re also one of the times pets are most likely to experience injuries, illness, or stress.
At Canyon View Cares Veterinary Hospital in Perry, we know that preparation is one of the best ways to protect your companion before, during, and after your trip.
Here’s how to help your pet stay healthy while enjoying everything summer has to offer.
Travel Isn’t the Same for Every Pet
Before making vacation plans, think about how your pet handles new situations.
Questions to ask include:
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Do they enjoy car rides?
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Are they comfortable around strangers?
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Can they tolerate changes in routine?
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Do they have medical conditions that require extra care?
Sometimes the safest vacation is one where your pet stays home with someone they trust.
Visit Your Veterinarian First
A pre-trip wellness visit provides peace of mind before you leave.
Your veterinarian can:
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Update vaccines.
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Discuss parasite prevention.
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Refill medications.
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Review travel concerns.
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Address anxiety or motion sickness.
This visit also allows you to ask questions about your destination and planned activities.
Make Car Travel Comfortable
Comfort is just as important as safety.
Keep the vehicle cool and well ventilated.
Allow your pet to relax on familiar bedding inside a secured crate or travel harness.
Avoid feeding large meals immediately before long drives if your pet is prone to motion sickness.
Don’t Forget Bathroom Breaks
Road trips require regular stops.
Your dog should have opportunities every few hours to walk, drink water, and use the bathroom.
Keeping a consistent schedule reduces stress and keeps everyone more comfortable.
Pack for Every Situation
Your travel supplies should include more than food.
Bring:
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Water
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Bowls
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Medication
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Waste bags
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Towels
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Extra leash
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Collar
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Medical records
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First-aid supplies
Planning ahead makes handling small problems much easier.
Stay Safe on the Trail
Hiking is excellent exercise, but trails contain hazards.
Watch carefully for:
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Sharp rocks
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Thorny plants
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Wildlife
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Foxtails
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Fast-moving water
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Steep terrain
Check your dog’s paws after every hike.
Heat Is Still a Concern
Even when temperatures feel comfortable, pets can overheat during physical activity.
Take frequent breaks, provide water often, and avoid hiking during the hottest hours of the day.
Older pets and puppies may need additional rest.
Don’t Share Picnic Food
Many vacation foods are unhealthy or dangerous for pets.
Keep pets away from:
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Bones
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Chocolate
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Grapes
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Raisins
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Corn cobs
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Fatty leftovers
Stick to your pet’s regular diet whenever possible.
Know What Requires Veterinary Care
Seek veterinary attention immediately if your pet develops:
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Persistent vomiting
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Trouble breathing
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Heatstroke
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Snake bites
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Severe limping
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Collapse
Early treatment often leads to better outcomes.
Vacation with Confidence
Planning ahead allows your family to spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the outdoors together.
At Canyon View Cares Veterinary Hospital in Perry, we’re here to help your pet prepare for every adventure with wellness care, vaccinations, preventive medicine, and personalized travel recommendations. Before your next trip, let our team help make sure your best friend is ready for a healthy, happy summer.