MaxiZooevents toadviseoncar journeysforpets

MAXI Zoo pet store is organising two free events this month to help educate local pet owners about the steps they can take to protect their pets if they’re facing long car journeys as they head off on holidays.

The free advisory days take place at the store in Bray Retail Park on Friday, June 22, and Saturday, June 23.

Pet owners who are planning on taking their pet on long car journeys to their summer holiday destination could be endangering their life and that of their pet, Maxi Zoo has warned. ‘While there is no law governing the transportation of pets in Ireland it is highly important to understand what is involved and that it is unsafe to allow your dog to roam freely while driving,’ said Emma Fanning, Education Officer at Maxi Zoo Ireland.

The store’s pet experts have also prepared a list of top-tips for drivers and pet owners, the first of which is to take time out to find a suitable pet restraining device or accessory for their pet, taking its size and age into consideration.

‘ Taking your dog for long walks and playing high intensity games such as fetch will help to calm your pet down before getting them into the car. The less excited and more relaxed your pet is the more likely they are to fall asleep quickly,’ said Ms Fanning.

‘Pets should be fed at least three hours before the car trip to avoid car sickness and should have a fresh source of water available at all times to maintain proper hydration levels. It is also important for pet owners to check regularly to ensure their pet is not getting over-heated or suffering heat-stroke.’

Symptoms of this include hyperventilation, excessive panting, pale and dry gums, increased salivation or digestive problems.