Activities for a fun family Labor Day

1. Try a new cuisine

Explore a cuisine that the kids have never tried before, like Ethiopian, Korean BBQ, Brazilian, or Japanese. Before heading to the restaurant, spend some time researching the region, locate it on a map, and find out a few unique customs.

2. Make and fly kites

Using a traditional kite pattern, paint and decorate kites using glitter, markers, ribbon, and whatever else you have on hand. Using plenty of string and a good gust of wind, fly the kites outdoors. Make it a competition and split into teams, challenge one another to see which kite stays in the air the longest.

3. Freezer cooking

Perfect for a rainy Labor Day, organize your kitchen into workstations and have the family create meals to freeze for the months ahead. Casseroles, cookie dough, and pasta sauce work the best. You’ll enjoy the time together and the money savings!

4. Backyard camping

Get up early in the morning and head out camping -- in your backyard! Bring all of the supplies necessary for a day and night out and restrict going inside the house to emergencies only. Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, tell ghost stories, and sleep under the starry skies. This is a perfect way to introduce kids to camping.

5. Talent show

Who knew Grandma was such a great dancer? At breakfast, introduce the idea for a family talent show night. Throughout the day, have someone make the program, while the performers have the day to prepare. Have your camera ready!

Great tips on how to get your car ready for its cross-country drive

1.) You'll want a tool kit when you're on the side of the highway on the middle of the night and you don't want to wait hours for a tow. Some older sports/luxury cars came with them, but always make sure you have at least a few basic tools with you.

2.) A cross-country drive is stressful in and of itself. If you take the time to make sure your car isn't an additional source of worry, we can guarantee you'll have a much better time.

3.) Tool kits, spare parts, and co-drivers who can wrench are great, but sometimes you simply won't be able to get your stalled car off the side of the road. Make sure you have AAA or some sort of roadside assistance offered by the manufacturer to keep you out of harm's way.

4.) If you drive something quirky or rare, carrying spare parts specific to your car is necessary for quick repairs.

5.) We cannot stress enough how important it is to check your cars fluids before you set off. Make sure you check your oil, lubricants, A/C, etc.

Top roads to drive on around the world

1.) Blue Ridge Parkway-
 The Blue Ridge Parkway runs from North Carolina to Virginia and is known for its views of rugged mountains and the Appalachian Highlands.

2.) Great Ocean Road-

Along the beautiful Great Ocean Road in Australia, you can find the famous limestone stacks called the Twelve Apostles, whale lookouts, rain forests, and beautiful national parks.

 

3.) Oberalp Pass-

The Oberalp Pass in Switzerland is a mountain road in the Swiss Alps that is 6,706 feet above sea level. The road is only open during the summer, but in the winter you can take a train ride across the pass. 

4.) Scenic Byway 163-

Scenic Byway 163 stretches from the Arizona border through Monument Valley in Utah. During the 45-mile drive, you'll be able to admire the beautiful red rocks and desert.

 

5.) Cabot Trai-

Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia is one of the most scenic drives in Canada, winding around the greater part of Cape Breton Island and offering views of both the woods and the ocean. Make sure to glance at the water every once in a while — you might spot a pod of whales swimming past.

 

6.) A82 Road-

The long, remote A82 Road in Glencoe, Scotland, brings you breathtaking scenic spaces and wonderful sights like the Rannoch Moor Bridge.

 

7.) Overseas Highway-

The Overseas Highway in Florida connects mainland Florida to the Florida Keys and consists of 42 overseas bridges across 113 miles. You'll feel like you're driving on the surface of the ocean. Try to catch a sunrise or a sunset, as the sun casts a beautiful reflection on the water.

 

8.)

Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road-

Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road in Abu Dhabi leads to Jebel Hafeet Mountain, the second-tallest mountain in the United Arab Emirates. The road winds through the craggy limestone making up the mountain until it reaches the summit. Try to take this drive in late afternoon so you can catch the sunset from the top of the mountain.

9.) Trollstigen road-

The Trollstigen road in Norway means "troll ladder," and that name is very fitting for this extremely narrow and steep winding road. If you make it to the top, you'll be rewarded with views of the Stigfossen waterfall, a 1,050-foot waterfall that tumbles over the mountains.

 

10.) Ruta 40-

Ruta 40 stretches more than 3,000 miles, from Argentina's northern border to its southern tip. It crosses 18 rivers and passes 20 national parks, making it a perfect scenic drive. 

10 things to check before buying a used car

1. The Test Drive
It’s always best to take the car on a test drive on both local roads and highways. In different environments, you can get a good feel for how the car responds and performs.

2. The Aesthetics: Inside and Out
Both the inside and outside condition of the car play a large factor in value. Make sure to check the interior upholstery carefully, along with any repairs to the exterior of the car.

3. The Leak Test
Any car that is leaking fluids is a red flag for a needed repair. While you’re on a test drive, take a moment to park in a clean area on the road, and let the car run for at least 30 seconds.

4. Research Reviews on the Make and Model
Do a bit of detective work on industry and consumer reviews on the make and model to uncover possible defects or even common problems. You can easily do a check by doing a search on Google.

5. Research Price
To ensure that you are being charged a fair price, make sure to compare prices for the same make, model and year with several sources.

6. Mechanic Inspection
Many consumers don’t take the time to have a mechanic inspect their used car before purchase, which can lead to more expensive car maintenance down the road.

7. Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles
Purchasing a certified pre-owned car can be a wise choice because it offers the buyer an extra level of quality assurance. Many local car dealers offer these vehicles with warranties that extend beyond the initial new coverage.

8. Buyer’s Remorse
To avoid buyer’s remorse, never be too quick to pull the trigger when buying a used car. Taking the time to do thorough research and negotiating for the best price is the best way you can ensure you’re getting a good deal on the right vehicle.

9. Decode the VIN
Checking a VIN chart is a quick, easy, and free way to check a used car’s VIN info matches up with what’s in the vehicle title and records. VIN cloning is a scam where sellers replace the VIN of a stolen car with one that is legally registered. This type of fraud can easily be avoided by decoding the VIN of the vehicle in question.

10. Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report can you help you reveal title problems, ownership history, service points and previous accidents, large or small. These reports can be available from dealers or ordered online. CARFAX offers one of the most comprehensive car reports available to purchase, which is pulled from a database of more than six billion car records.

National Vacation Month

NATIONAL VACATION MONTH!

We are midway through the summer and we decided to put together a few of the great national parks to travel to in the United States! The better question is we want to know if you have been to any of these? Or if you plan on taking any roadtrips to them with your family!? It is beyond amazing these great destinations may lie so close to you!

1.)  Carlsbad Caverns National Park- Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a great place to view the night sky in a whole new way. The park offers full moon and star party tours to take in the natural illumination, but the real highlights are the 117 absolutely marvelous caves formed by sulfuric acid that has eaten away at the limestone. The rock formations and stunning "cathedral"-like interiors are nearly without rival. Visitors can take guided and unguided tours of the Hall of the White Giant and the Spider Cave, and watch Mexican free-tail bats burst from Carlsbad Cavern at dusk in the summertime.


2.) Yellowstone National Park- Classic destinations always stand the test of time, and as the world’s first national park, Yellowstone certainly qualifies. Most notably the home of Old Faithful Geyser, the park features an impressive collection of lakes, mountain ranges, canyons and rivers. Centered over the Yellowstone Caldera — the largest super volcano on the continent — the park is a singular destination for wildlife viewing in the spring, summer and fall, and is ideal for skiing in the winter. For a first-rate photo opportunity, don't leave Yellowstone without venturing into the Hayden Valley, a prime location for grizzly bear sightings and bison encounters.


3.) Grand Canyon National Park- A powerful and inspiring landscape, Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its immense size.
Unique combinations of geologic color and erosional forms decorate a canyon that is 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep.



4.) Great Smoky Mountains- Clouds obscure a valley in the Great Smoky Mountains. The nation’s busiest park, Great Smoky Mountains draws more than nine million visitors a year, twice the number of any other national park. It's located in Tennessee and North Carolina.

Do's and Don'ts for traveling with your pet in the car

It is that time again when we will be taking our four-legged friends on a long trip in our car for our vacations. Below you will see some tips to make it a more enjoyable ride for you and your pet!

• Healthy Start:  The last thing you need is a sick pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for your pet.  If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies vaccination.  If your plans include traveling with your pet from the United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

• Plan for Restraint:  Have a plan for how you're going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle.   This is a crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs.  Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and pet travel crates are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling in your vehicle.  It's important to familiarize your pet with the vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that they are comfortable.

• Temporary ID Tag:  In the unfortunate event that your pet runs off while you're traveling, a temporary identification tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return.  Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet's collar in addition to their permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you'll be staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others to help you find your lost pet.

• Packing Essentials:  When packing for your pet include an ample supply of your pet's food.  Don't rely on stopping along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food while traveling.  Other essentials to pack for your pet include collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of course - be sure to always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.

• Secure Pet Friendly Accommodations:  If you're planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure these accommodations before you hit the road. Map out where you'll be spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way.  Our Search By Route option will allow you to find pet friendly lodging along your route by plugging in your origination location and final destination. Pet policies do change some times without notice and accommodations may be limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.

- See more at: http://www.tripswithpets.com/pet-travel-tips-car#sthash.XmyDe3Iw.dp

DO: Travel with treats.

Like most others, you commonly go off your diet when traveling. Your dog does not have to be the exception. Travel with dog treats and chew toys to make the experience more enjoyable for both of you. He or she may need a rawhide to settle down with, or a little good behavior reinforcement with a milk bone. Keep the treats handy so that you can toss one over your shoulder when it is appropriate.

DON'T: Crate your dog for the whole trip.

Unless you have an unruly companion, do not leave your dog confined to a crate throughout your drive. The stress of the drive is already going to put your dog in an uneasy place, confining him or her to an even smaller traveling space may turn him or her into a nervous wreck.

DON'T: Leave your dog locked in the car while you eat in a restaurant.

Cars get hotter than you realize when they are parked. Even when it is only 50 degrees outside, the sun can heat up the inside of your vehicle and make it quite uncomfortable for the canine on lock down. If you have another human traveling with you, eat in shifts while one walks the dog. Otherwise, grab something to go and get back to your faithful companion.

DON'T: Leave food or toxins loose in your car during your trip.

It only takes a second for a dog to scarf up a candy bar or puncture a bottle of antifreeze. Keep all of your edibles in a cooler unless you are actively eating them, and keep your toxic substances in a trunk or thick container.

DON'T: Play loud, jarring music during your entire trip.

Your precious pal is used to hearing Megadeth at home, but with the sensory overload of the car trip, you should consider holding off on enjoying your favorite Death Metal or Rap bands at top volume. Turn down the volume, fade your speakers to forward only and spare your imprisoned pooch during your trip. A dog's ears are very sensitive.

DON'T: Ignore your dog during your journey.

Your furry friend is traveling with you, and he or she wants your approval. Every once in a while, turn the rear view mirror down, look him or her in the eye and say "Good boy." or "Good girl." Let him or her know he or she is wanted and needed.

There are few reasons to leave a dog behind when traveling by car. Your journey is richer when you share it with your lifelong companion, and your dog is sure to appreciate being included as long as you make time to stop and attend to both of your needs along the way.

• Healthy Start:  The last thing you need is a sick pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for your pet.  If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies vaccination.  If your plans include traveling with your pet from the United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

• Plan for Restraint:  Have a plan for how you're going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle.   This is a crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs.  Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and pet travel crates are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling in your vehicle.  It's important to familiarize your pet with the vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that they are comfortable.

• Temporary ID Tag:  In the unfortunate event that your pet runs off while you're traveling, a temporary identification tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return.  Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet's collar in addition to their permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you'll be staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others to help you find your lost pet.

• Packing Essentials:  When packing for your pet include an ample supply of your pet's food.  Don't rely on stopping along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food while traveling.  Other essentials to pack for your pet include collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of course - be sure to always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.

• Secure Pet Friendly Accommodations:  If you're planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure these accommodations before you hit the road. Map out where you'll be spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way.  Our Search By Route option will allow you to find pet friendly lodging along your route by plugging in your origination location and final destination. Pet policies do change some times without notice and accommodations may be limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.

- See more at: http://www.tripswithpets.com/pet-travel-tips-car#sthash.XmyDe3Iw.dpuf

• Healthy Start:  The last thing you need is a sick pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for your pet.  If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies vaccination.  If your plans include traveling with your pet from the United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

• Plan for Restraint:  Have a plan for how you're going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle.   This is a crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs.  Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and pet travel crates are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling in your vehicle.  It's important to familiarize your pet with the vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that they are comfortable.

• Temporary ID Tag:  In the unfortunate event that your pet runs off while you're traveling, a temporary identification tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return.  Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet's collar in addition to their permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you'll be staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others to help you find your lost pet.

• Packing Essentials:  When packing for your pet include an ample supply of your pet's food.  Don't rely on stopping along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food while traveling.  Other essentials to pack for your pet include collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of course - be sure to always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.

• Secure Pet Friendly Accommodations:  If you're planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure these accommodations before you hit the road. Map out where you'll be spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way.  Our Search By Route option will allow you to find pet friendly lodging along your route by plugging in your origination location and final destination. Pet policies do change some times without notice and accommodations may be limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.

• Medical Records:  In case of a medical emergency while traveling, it is advisable to bring along your pets medical records along with your vet's contact information should they be needed for consultation.

Hitting the Road

• No Heads Out the Window:  Although many pets find that sticking their head out the window is the best part of the road trip, it's not safe.  Your pet can easily be injured by flying debris.  This should go without saying, but NEVER travel with a pet in the back of a pickup truck. Some states have laws restricting such transport and it is always dangerous.

• Frequent Pit Stops:  Always provide frequent bathroom and exercise breaks. Most travel service areas have designated areas for walking your pet. Be sure to stay in this area particularly when you pet needs a potty breaks and of course, bring along a bag to pick up after your pet.  When outside your vehicle, make sure that your pet is always on a leash and wearing a collar with a permanent and temporary travel identification tag.

• Proper Hydration:  During your pit stops be sure to provide your pet with some fresh water to wet their whistle.  Occasionally, traveling can upset your pet's stomach. Take along ice cubes, which are easier on your pet than large amounts of water.

• Watch the Food Intake:  It is recommended that you keep feeding to a minimum during travel.  Be sure to feed them their regular pet food and resist the temptation to give them some of your fast food burger or fries (that never has a good ending).

• Don't Leave Them Alone:  Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle. On warm days, the temperature in your vehicle can rise to 120 degrees in minutes, even with the windows slightly open. In addition, an animal left alone in a vehicle is an open invitation to pet thieves.

• Practice Restraint:  Be sure that your pet is safely restrained in your vehicle.  Utilizing a pet safety harness, travel kennel, vehicle pet barrier, or pet car seat are the best ways to keep your pet safe.  They not only protect your pet from injury, but they help by keeping them from distracting you as you drive.  A safety harness functions like a seatbelt.  While most pets will not have a problem adjusting to it, you may want to let them wear the harness by itself a few times before using it in the vehicle. If your pet prefers a travel kennel, be sure it is well ventilated and stabilized.  Many pet owners prefer vehicle barriers, particularly for larger pets.  Vehicle barriers are best suited for SUVs.  Smaller pets are best suited for pet car seats.  The car seat is secured in the back seat using a seat belt and your pet is secured in the car seat with a safety harness.  In addition to it's safety features, a pet car seat will prop up your smaller pet, allowing them to better look out the window.  No matter what method you choose, back seat travel is always safer for your pet.

• Safe and Comfortable:  Whatever method you choose to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle, be sure to make their comfort a priority.  Just as it's important for your "seat" to be comfortable for your long road trip, your pet's seat should be comfortable too. Typically their favorite blanket or travel bed will do the trick. There are also some safe and very cozy pet car seats available that your pet may find quite comfy.

- See more at: http://www.tripswithpets.com/pet-travel-tips-car#sthash.XmyDe3Iw.dpuf

• Healthy Start:  The last thing you need is a sick pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for your pet.  If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies vaccination.  If your plans include traveling with your pet from the United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

• Plan for Restraint:  Have a plan for how you're going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle.   This is a crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs.  Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and pet travel crates are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling in your vehicle.  It's important to familiarize your pet with the vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that they are comfortable.

• Temporary ID Tag:  In the unfortunate event that your pet runs off while you're traveling, a temporary identification tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return.  Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet's collar in addition to their permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you'll be staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others to help you find your lost pet.

• Packing Essentials:  When packing for your pet include an ample supply of your pet's food.  Don't rely on stopping along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food while traveling.  Other essentials to pack for your pet include collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of course - be sure to always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.

• Secure Pet Friendly Accommodations:  If you're planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure these accommodations before you hit the road. Map out where you'll be spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way.  Our Search By Route option will allow you to find pet friendly lodging along your route by plugging in your origination location and final destination. Pet policies do change some times without notice and accommodations may be limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.

• Medical Records:  In case of a medical emergency while traveling, it is advisable to bring along your pets medical records along with your vet's contact information should they be needed for consultation.

Hitting the Road

• No Heads Out the Window:  Although many pets find that sticking their head out the window is the best part of the road trip, it's not safe.  Your pet can easily be injured by flying debris.  This should go without saying, but NEVER travel with a pet in the back of a pickup truck. Some states have laws restricting such transport and it is always dangerous.

• Frequent Pit Stops:  Always provide frequent bathroom and exercise breaks. Most travel service areas have designated areas for walking your pet. Be sure to stay in this area particularly when you pet needs a potty breaks and of course, bring along a bag to pick up after your pet.  When outside your vehicle, make sure that your pet is always on a leash and wearing a collar with a permanent and temporary travel identification tag.

• Proper Hydration:  During your pit stops be sure to provide your pet with some fresh water to wet their whistle.  Occasionally, traveling can upset your pet's stomach. Take along ice cubes, which are easier on your pet than large amounts of water.

• Watch the Food Intake:  It is recommended that you keep feeding to a minimum during travel.  Be sure to feed them their regular pet food and resist the temptation to give them some of your fast food burger or fries (that never has a good ending).

• Don't Leave Them Alone:  Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle. On warm days, the temperature in your vehicle can rise to 120 degrees in minutes, even with the windows slightly open. In addition, an animal left alone in a vehicle is an open invitation to pet thieves.

• Practice Restraint:  Be sure that your pet is safely restrained in your vehicle.  Utilizing a pet safety harness, travel kennel, vehicle pet barrier, or pet car seat are the best ways to keep your pet safe.  They not only protect your pet from injury, but they help by keeping them from distracting you as you drive.  A safety harness functions like a seatbelt.  While most pets will not have a problem adjusting to it, you may want to let them wear the harness by itself a few times before using it in the vehicle. If your pet prefers a travel kennel, be sure it is well ventilated and stabilized.  Many pet owners prefer vehicle barriers, particularly for larger pets.  Vehicle barriers are best suited for SUVs.  Smaller pets are best suited for pet car seats.  The car seat is secured in the back seat using a seat belt and your pet is secured in the car seat with a safety harness.  In addition to it's safety features, a pet car seat will prop up your smaller pet, allowing them to better look out the window.  No matter what method you choose, back seat travel is always safer for your pet.

• Safe and Comfortable:  Whatever method you choose to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle, be sure to make their comfort a priority.  Just as it's important for your "seat" to be comfortable for your long road trip, your pet's seat should be comfortable too. Typically their favorite blanket or travel bed will do the trick. There are also some safe and very cozy pet car seats available that your pet may find quite comfy.

- See more at: http://www.tripswithpets.com/pet-travel-tips-car#sthash.XmyDe3Iw.dpuf

• Healthy Start:  The last thing you need is a sick pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for your pet.  If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies vaccination.  If your plans include traveling with your pet from the United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

• Plan for Restraint:  Have a plan for how you're going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle.   This is a crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs.  Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and pet travel crates are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling in your vehicle.  It's important to familiarize your pet with the vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that they are comfortable.

• Temporary ID Tag:  In the unfortunate event that your pet runs off while you're traveling, a temporary identification tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return.  Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet's collar in addition to their permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you'll be staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others to help you find your lost pet.

• Packing Essentials:  When packing for your pet include an ample supply of your pet's food.  Don't rely on stopping along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food while traveling.  Other essentials to pack for your pet include collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box, leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of course - be sure to always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.

• Secure Pet Friendly Accommodations:  If you're planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure these accommodations before you hit the road. Map out where you'll be spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way.  Our Search By Route option will allow you to find pet friendly lodging along your route by plugging in your origination location and final destination. Pet policies do change some times without notice and accommodations may be limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.

• Medical Records:  In case of a medical emergency while traveling, it is advisable to bring along your pets medical records along with your vet's contact information should they be needed for consultation.

Hitting the Road

• No Heads Out the Window:  Although many pets find that sticking their head out the window is the best part of the road trip, it's not safe.  Your pet can easily be injured by flying debris.  This should go without saying, but NEVER travel with a pet in the back of a pickup truck. Some states have laws restricting such transport and it is always dangerous.

• Frequent Pit Stops:  Always provide frequent bathroom and exercise breaks. Most travel service areas have designated areas for walking your pet. Be sure to stay in this area particularly when you pet needs a potty breaks and of course, bring along a bag to pick up after your pet.  When outside your vehicle, make sure that your pet is always on a leash and wearing a collar with a permanent and temporary travel identification tag.

• Proper Hydration:  During your pit stops be sure to provide your pet with some fresh water to wet their whistle.  Occasionally, traveling can upset your pet's stomach. Take along ice cubes, which are easier on your pet than large amounts of water.

• Watch the Food Intake:  It is recommended that you keep feeding to a minimum during travel.  Be sure to feed them their regular pet food and resist the temptation to give them some of your fast food burger or fries (that never has a good ending).

• Don't Leave Them Alone:  Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle. On warm days, the temperature in your vehicle can rise to 120 degrees in minutes, even with the windows slightly open. In addition, an animal left alone in a vehicle is an open invitation to pet thieves.

• Practice Restraint:  Be sure that your pet is safely restrained in your vehicle.  Utilizing a pet safety harness, travel kennel, vehicle pet barrier, or pet car seat are the best ways to keep your pet safe.  They not only protect your pet from injury, but they help by keeping them from distracting you as you drive.  A safety harness functions like a seatbelt.  While most pets will not have a problem adjusting to it, you may want to let them wear the harness by itself a few times before using it in the vehicle. If your pet prefers a travel kennel, be sure it is well ventilated and stabilized.  Many pet owners prefer vehicle barriers, particularly for larger pets.  Vehicle barriers are best suited for SUVs.  Smaller pets are best suited for pet car seats.  The car seat is secured in the back seat using a seat belt and your pet is secured in the car seat with a safety harness.  In addition to it's safety features, a pet car seat will prop up your smaller pet, allowing them to better look out the window.  No matter what method you choose, back seat travel is always safer for your pet.

• Safe and Comfortable:  Whatever method you choose to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle, be sure to make their comfort a priority.  Just as it's important for your "seat" to be comfortable for your long road trip, your pet's seat should be comfortable too. Typically their favorite blanket or travel bed will do the trick. There are also some safe and very cozy pet car seats available that your pet may find quite comfy.

- See more at: http://www.tripswithpets.com/pet-travel-tips-car#sthash.XmyDe3Iw.dpuf

"Chevrolet out-performs its field" Vintage Chevy Ad

Back in the day the page of a magazine or a section of a newspaper page were all you were given to show the value of your work. Well, time has changed. While they may not seem like much nowadays, Chevrolet still managed to make an art of these ads the fullest.  Here is one example of our favorite ads for Chevy!