Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/792909
iStock SPRING 2017 BCA A .COM 29 MEMBERS SAVE BCAA's Advantage Auto Insurance provides up to ›, in Family Pet Protection to cover veterinary expenses if your pet is injured in a collision while travelling in your vehicle. bcaa.com/insurance/auto T hose iconic images of dogs hanging their heads out of car windows on sun-soaked highways are cute – but pet owners shouldn't use them as inspiration for their own road trips. Allowing pets to roam freely in a vehicle, or sit on your lap, is risky, and could also be considered a distraction under BC's distracted-driving rules. That settled, here's what to pack for a safe and satisfying road trip with four-legged friends: toolkit AUTOMOTIVE Paws on Board What to pack for a road trip with pets Bottled water, snacks and dishes On long stretches of highway, your pet needs to hydrate and recharge. Pre-bagged snacks and collapsible plastic dishes are great for road trips. Comforts of home Her favourite chew toy or ball, a comfy blanket, a bed that smells like home: these will help your pet relax on the road, especially in stressful situations, like rough ferry rides, loud traffic jams and thunderstorms. Paperwork Pack identification and vaccination records, along with a recent photo of your pet, and extra tags, in the unlikely event he or she goes missing. Local pet smarts Do some digging and find a vet in your destination, as well as details on any pet rules or bylaws. Websites such as Bring Fido (bringfido.com) and Pet Friendly (petfriendly.ca) give owners the scoop on hotels and attractions that welcome pets. Pet first aid kit Buy one or make your own, with antibiotic ointment and wipes, gauze, tape, scissors, surgical gloves, hydrogen peroxide and any medications your pet takes (along with any others your vet may recommend, like travel sedatives or tick treatments). Cats and other small animals should ride in secured carriers. A dog can travel inside a secured kennel or wear a dog seat belt. These special harnesses come in different sizes and attach to a standard back-seat belt. The fit should be snug but still allow the dog to stand, sit or lie down while buckled in. Carrier or harness