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Long before the cold windy winter begins to bite the bones, plans are being made by people in Canada, northeastern and midwestern United States to find the warmer climes of the south. It is an interesting phenomenon that occurs every year and it mimics the ritual of the migration of our feathered friends.

These "birds snow "(as it is affectionately known) flock to Arizona, Florida and elsewhere along the Sunbelt to avoid the bite of winter and discomfort. Europeans also North are known to head to warmer places in the U.S., adding to these communities, residents second season of each year.

Snowbirds are typically retirees or business owners who can afford to be away for long periods of time. Many have a second home in a warmer location, while others have their home on wheels with them in the form of an RV or camper.

Jack and Ethel W. have been making the trip for 18 years. Drawing from their banked driveway snow in northern Ohio, the 28 meters Fleetwood Southwind RV is loaded with rations, light clothing than would have been needed in house, and Phantom, his four feet, eight years old. That is, more and more people travel with their pets and snowbirds these days are no exception. The couple would not think of leaving behind their special family members, a Lhasa Apso. It's like one of his sons. They stay out five or six weeks in south Georgia, taking part in several trips to explore new places.

Rick S. removes the 38-foot fifth wheel Prowler from Connecticut to Florida each year. Its passengers only Harley and Davidson, two 80-pound German shepherd who earn their livelihood through the exchange of "Navigator" Rick Mans duties as all the driving. It heads south in early November, not to return until mid-April. He enjoys fishing for a warmer climate with his friends at their lake house modest to the last vestiges of winter fade.

Traveling with pets long distances and for long periods of time poses challenges not only for the snowbirds, but also for pets to wear. According to Dr. Mitch Spindell, veterinary site PetTravelCenter.com, the first that one should always consider is how physically able a pet is traveling. Some older, pregnant, injured animals, or with physical disabilities do not travel well. In addition to ensuring that your pet is physically fit and comfortable for the trip, here are some tips to consider:

1. If your pet has all chronic conditions, take all relevant medical records. It's a good idea to keep records of your pet with you whenever you travel long distances.

2. If your pet is on any long-term medications, be sure to have enough to last throughout your stay.

3. If you are driving to north or south of the U.S. border, be sure to check all local regulations and have current health certificates of your pet with you.

4. Establish a local veterinarian in the area as soon as possible in an emergency. Go to and click PetTravelCenter.com Tips emergency for more information.

5.Ask a local vet about any diseases or parasites that may be present in that part of the country (Lyme disease in New England or fleas all year in Florida, for example). Your pet can not be protected against these if they are not where you live.

Just as the safety of their passengers is of paramount importance when traveling, do not forget your pet's safety as well. As 25 pounds without restriction dog, for example, becomes a projectile of 1,000 pounds at 40 miles-per-hour accident. This type of uncontrolled flight mass around a vehicle can be deadly, not only your pet but for you and your passengers.

Look out for their precious cargo, providing your pet with a car seat fitted with a restraining device (for small pets) or a vehicle pet harness that is secured with a safety belt. Cats should be kept in a suitable support for travel, also ensured with a safety belt.

A travel label on the neck of a pet will help you locate someone locally you must be separated and your pet. The label must contain travel information on where you are (while away from home), including addresses and phone numbers. A number of cell phone is also a good idea to have on the label because most people have one with them, especially when traveling.

Another point to consider is a pet first aid kit. It is important not only are familiar with the issues you pack in the kit, but how to use them.

So, as Anne Murray sings the popular song, "Snowbird"

"Spread your tiny wings and fly away

And take the snow back with you

Where did that day

…

Therefore, little Snowbird, take me with you when you

For the land of gentle breezes where the flow of peaceful waters … "

Happy Travels!

About the Author:

Tom James is founder and president of PetTravelCenter.com, an Internet company and online community serving the pet travel industry and pet lovers everywhere. Information and resources about pet-friendly hotels and destinations, RV parks, dog parks, campgrounds, tips for traveling with pets using various modes of transportation, recreational activities with pets, articles by pet experts, a photo gallery, and special features, including a monthly newsletter for PTC Club members, are included in the site. PetTravelCenter.com also offers an online store of pet travel products to make the experience of traveling with pets \”fun and easy.\” Visit online at www.PetTravelCenter.com and www.PetTravelCenter.com/store.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – A Look at Snowbirds and Their Pets

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