Over the past four years, Jetty has been to over 40 different Islands and up and down the east coast of the United States multiple times. Through these trips, we have come to realize what is important to bring along and what we can leave behind. I hope this list helps on your next adventure with your best friend!
- Water!! Make sure you always have more that you think they will need. Collapsible water bowls and dog water bottles make bringing and giving water super easy.
- Plenty of flea/tick and heartworm prevention medicine. If you are like us you are not traveling through manicured yards but rather off the beaten path. You never know what could be hiding in the brush. Making sure you are up to date on your pet’s monthly dose of preventions can save you a ton of hassle, your pet from discomfort, and your home or car from a possible infestation.
- Extra food. Your pet’s specific food may not be available along your journey. If you happen to find yourself in a place that does not carry the right kind, start mixing the new brand in with their current food before it runs out. This will lower the chance of your pet having a bad reaction to a new kind of food.
- Vaccination records: God forbid there is an emergency you have the documents you need to inform the new vet of all vaccination history. This is also important if you are traveling out of the country. All countries have different requirements but up to date rabies vaccine is required in almost every country. Check out the import process for the Bahamas here!
- Tags. Adventures call for new places to play, smell, and roam. If your pal happens to wander off in the excitement of a new place you can be assured that when they are found you will be getting a call. I always make sure that Jetty’s tags are legible and have at least two up to date numbers.
- First aid kit. Jetty had a rough first two years of her life. After her attack and multiple surgery’s, we had some left-over antibiotics and pain killers. We keep these in the first aid kit just in case anything were to happen. We are often far, far away from any vet so it is nice to know that we have medicine to keep her comfortable until we get to a hospital. We also keep gauze bandages, adhesive tape, Neosporin, tweezers, bitter spray (to keep her from bothering any wounds) and her vet on speed dial. You can also find pre made pet first aid kits at most pet stores, as well as on amazon.
- Toys and treats. Traveling can take a toll on pets. Make sure they are as comfortable as possible by bringing their favorite toy and a few treats along.
Most of our adventures are either in or around the water. For all you boaters out there we also make sure to bring a life jacket, umbrella, and a cooling collar (we soak and freeze a sun mask the night before a boating adventure).
Happy travels!
Thanks for sharing. I live on a 41’ CHB Trawler in So Cal. I have a 4 year old Golden Retriever who loves boat life. Your vlog is spot on. Hope others appreciate it.
Keep on sharing.
Thx
Eric
I read Jetty got attacked!? How did I mis this info from your Blogs? What happened if you don’t mind sharing
We were walking to the mailbox at my parents house at about 10 pm. I had her on a leash because the mailboxes are at the end of the street. When we got off the driveway another lady walking could not control her two dogs. A great dane mastiff mix grabbed her and did loads of damage. I was finally able to kick the dog hard enough to make it let Jetty go. Lots of surgeries later all she has left is a small scar. Our vet was amazing! She still loves most dogs but is now very skittish of people. She has also become very protective of Billy and I and the boat. Forever thankful she was okay!