• Exercise your pet regularly. It can be tough to fit in regular exercise for your pet if you have a demanding job, but it's important to engage with your pet to keep them from getting bored or anxious...and taking it out on your couch, carpet, or other belongings.
• Consider purchasing toys that keep your pet engaged. If toys are available that are appropriate for your pet's size, age and activity level, it's less likely they'll resort to scratching on your leather sofa or chewing on your table legs to keep them entertained.
• Training is a must. It takes a lot of time and patience but making sure your pet is properly trained and housebroken can save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run. If you don't have time to train them yourself, consider obedience classes or consultants to help you understand and manage your pet's behavior.
• Take time to pet-proof your home. If there are certain areas of your home you don't want your pet accessing when you're not home, you may want to install gates or other barriers. Look at each room from the pet's perspective and move items like plants or breakables that you don't want them to be near. Some pet owners prefer to crate train their pets, to ensure that pets won't cause damage when the owners are away. If you're adopting a puppy or kitten, keep in mind that they may not be housetrained, and take appropriate precautions.
• Proper grooming is also important. If your dog's nails are properly clipped, accidental scratching of hardwoods, linoleum or other flooring is much more likely.

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If you're a pet owner who is hitting the highway for a road trip, chances are that your pet is coming along for the ride. Pets can be fun co-pilots, and taking a few extra steps before and during your trip can ensure that everyone has a safe, fun drive!

• If this is your pet's first road trip, take them on a few shorter trips first to see how they adjust and react to riding in the car.
• Be sure that you have the proper equipment to keep your pet secured and safe while riding in your vehicle. Depending on your pet's size, you'll want to investigate what kind of restraint, crate, or carrier is best.
• Pack extra supplies, including water, blankets, toys, food, medications, leashes and waste disposal supplies.
• Try to stop every two to three hours to let your pet get a drink of water, some exercise and a chance to relieve themselves.
• When it comes to staying overnight, remember to choose locations that are pet-friendly. Not all hotels permit pets in their rooms, so plan ahead!

Want to take this info with you? You can download a free pdf here: