It’s summer time, and the weather is hot. We all know how the words to that old song go, but not everyone is as familiar with how the warmer weather can impact your car’s performance and reliability. With summer’s prime driving season upon us, it’s more important than ever to make sure your car is in tiptop shape.

More miles are traveled during the summer months in the United States than during any other time of year. As a result, it is important to make sure your car or truck is capable of handling the extra odometer stress. Fortunately, a service appointment at your local dealership is a great one-stop way to have your car inspected, make sure all of its maintenance is up-to-date and ensure it is capable of performing at its best. 

One of the first things dealership technicians will verify during a summer inspection is the state of your vehicle’s tires. The extra heat thrown off by the pavement during the warmer months of the year can add additional stress to tire rubber that is worn out or nearing its replacement date. Dealership personnel can verify that there are no cracks or divots in the tire sidewalls, and that there is enough tread life remaining to see you through the season.  

This last point is also crucial for dealing with any rainstorms you might encounter while out on the highway – bald tires are a significant contributor to hydroplaning, which can see you lose control of your car when encountering standing water or heavy rain. Technicians will also verify that each of your tires is filled with exactly the right amount of air, as too much or too little can contribute to excessive tread wear, as well as lower fuel economy. 

The next stage for most summer tune-ups takes place under the hood where your vehicle’s air filter will be inspected to determine whether it must be replaced. As the summer usually brings with it road construction and drier air that can create dust, it is often the case that an air filter will have become choked with that dust and other road debris. Less clean air making it into your engine means less power being produced, and while the drop in horsepower might be so gradual as to be difficult for you to notice while it is happening, what you will pick up on is just how much better your fuel mileage gets with a brand-new air filter installed. 

Other engine-related summer maintenance items that can improve your car’s miles per gallon include spark plugs and fuel filters. The former can be easily pulled and checked to make sure they haven’t become coated with carbon, which can degrade their ability to provide a powerful spark. Spark plugs are inexpensive to replace and their inspection should be part of any regular maintenance schedule. Fuel filters strain out any impurities in the gasoline you put in your car. If they become clogged, they can limit or block the flow of gasoline to your car’s engine, severely impacting power and gas mileage. Once again, this item is cheap and quick to replace in the majority of cases and can improve both the idle and the acceleration of your vehicle, in addition to fuel economy. 

In addition to performing the standard brake pad, rotor and fluid checks that should be done every time you have your automobile in for servicing, one of the final things that dealership technicians will verify as being in good working order is your car’s cooling and air conditioning systems. When the mercury starts to climb, you need a radiator that can handle the task of keeping your engine cool enough to perform safely. Not only should the radiator be checked for leaks, but all the hoses in the engine compartment also need to be inspected to make sure they are fit for duty. The coolant in the car should be tested to validate that it is in good enough shape to handle the extra work during the summer months. 

Summer car maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated – in fact, getting your car ready for the hottest and busiest driving season is as simple as stopping in at your local dealership and putting yourself in their capable hands.

Source:IMN

Full-size pickup trucks offer some of the widest selections of equipment and features of all modern vehicles. The ability to option out a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 to match your exact daily driving and hauling needs is indeed a powerful tool. To get the best understanding of what the Silverado has to offer, it is a great idea to take a closer look at the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT and LTZ trim levels, each of which offers an exceptionally high standard of functionality and comfort.

The 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT (MSRP $26,810) represents the highest trim available on Regular Cab body-style trucks from the American automaker. The LT comes standard with a 4.8-liter V8 engine that produces a healthy 302 hp and 305 lb/ft of torque while turning in a respectable 19 mpg highway through a four-speed automatic transmission. Optional for 1500 LT trims is a 315-hp 5.3-liter FlexFuel V8 that generates 335 lb/ft of torque. Upgrading to this mill also adds a six-speed automatic transmission to the mix along with several heavy-duty cooling systems and a locking rear differential.

The LT trim can also be found on Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles, which offer additional seating for three passengers along with an extra set of rear doors, expanding total capacity to six occupants. For each of these editions of the Silverado, a 6.2-liter FlexFuel V8 is available to drivers who absolutely require the final word in horsepower and torque. With 403 ponies and 417 lb/ft of twist, this engine comes with a six-speed automatic and absolutely mauls the competition. Four-wheel drive is, of course, also an option for the entire Silverado V8 range.

Out back, the Silverado 1500 LT Regular and Extended Cab models come with a choice of either a six-foot, six-inch cargo bed or an eight-foot bed, both of which are well suited to handling a wide variety of loads. The Crew Cab model is outfitted exclusively with a five-foot, eight-inch box. Inside, standard features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, power windows and door locks – but what sets the LT apart is the ability to upgrade it a la carte from a long list of optional equipment packages and individual equipment choices. The Interior Plus Package provides steering wheel-mounted audio controls, an MP3-capable CD player and a power driver’s seat while several different chrome packages can also be chosen to dress up the vehicle’s exterior. Stand-alone options include over 15 different wheel choices ranging from 17 to 22 inches in size, along with bedliners, bedrail protectors and several tonneau covers.

The 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ seriously ups the ante when it comes to both standard and available features. The LTZ trim is available exclusively for Extended and Crew Cab body styles, and these trucks are found with either the 5.3-liter (standard) or 6.2-liter V8 between the front fenders. Leather seats are included on this most elite edition of the Silverado along with heaters for both the driver and the front passenger. Additional amenities included with the LTZ trim include dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a unique Bose stereo system.

The LTZ shares the customization possibilities offered by the LT, presenting a fantastic number of options and packages that increase the Silverado’s comfort and utility. The Convenience Package adds rear-parking assist to make it easier to park and maneuver out of tight spaces along with power-adjustable pedals and an available power-sliding rear window. The Silverado LTZ can also take advantage of the Z71 Suspension Package, which preps the truck for severe off-road duty by adding rugged shock absorbers, a thicker front stabilizer bar, an array of skid plates designed to protect the vehicle’s undercarriage and a special air cleaner to keep dirt and grime out of the pickup’s engine.

The 2010 Chevrolet Silverado LT and LTZ pickups are the final word when it comes to equipment, comfort and sheer utility in the full-size truck world.

Source: IMN

It’s definitely a Chevy: just look at the bold styling. The two-segment grille is the family nose, and the Cruze looks sporty with its raked windshield and arched roof. The wheels have been pushed out to the corners of the bodywork, a nod to both performance and maximized interior space, giving an air of muscular confidence.

To support the precision build quality, the Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant was retooled with the most modern equipment. The resulting Cruze is endowed with a strong bodyshell that earns five-star crash ratings everywhere the Cruze is sold. A premium look is enhanced by restrained brightwork and detailing, and has already proven a hit in other regions of the world.

Cruze’s looks will immediately garner attention, but its interior is what will shut the mouths of detractors. Premium materials define the interior atmosphere. The standard audio system has MP3 capability and an auxiliary jack, and music fans can step up to a nine-speaker Pioneer system with USB port for easy iPod integration. Bluetooth connectivity and a navigation system are also available, and the optional leather upholstery and reasonable price will have your friends’ jaws gaping. The 2011 Cruze isn’t just a small car, it’s a premium small car.

Trim levels will be LS, LT and LTZ, and an RS Appearance Package will be available to dress up LT and LTZ models. RS Package models will get revised fascias, a rear spoiler, foglamps and rocker-panel extensions. RS interiors are dressed up with a new instrument cluster carrying chrome accents and blue backlighting. All Cruze models have a serenely quiet demeanor and are packed with 10 standard airbags including roof rail head-curtain, rear-seat side and new front-seat knee airbags.

Power is provided by efficient Ecotec four-cylinder engines. Standard in LT, LTZ and Eco trims, a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine with variable valve timing delivers 138 hp and 148 lb/ft of torque – output numbers you’d expect from a 2.0-liter engine. The 1.4-liter is good for 40 mpg on the highway in the Cruze Eco with six-speed manual transmission. The Cruze LS gets a 136-hp 1.8-liter engine that foregoes the turbocharger, but keeps the rest of the high-tech features such as a lightweight block, dual overhead cams with continuously variable timing, a variable intake manifold and an electronically controlled cooling system. Both engines are compact and efficient and deliver strong, flexible power.

Transmissions are six-speed units, whether automatic or manual. Fuel economy is maximized with a tall overdrive gear, and the Cruze Eco gets specific gearing in its six-speed, helping it top the fuel economy ratings for the Cruze lineup – its 40 mpg estimated highway mileage is also expected to be best in class. The smooth and carefully packaged six-speed automatic carries ActiveSelect control that allows racing-style sequential gear changes, and drops into neutral when stopped, which enhances smoothness and reduces fuel consumption. The Cruze Eco features enhanced aerodynamics (including lowered ride height, a lower front air dam extension and numerous underbody panels), ultra-low rolling resistance Goodyear tires and unique, lightweight, 17-inch aluminum wheels, all of which contribute to its outstanding fuel economy.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (MSRP $16,995) is a handsome, well-made, world-class small car. Not only will its quality and equipment level astonish, the fact that it’s from Chevrolet is equally impressive. Anyone who says small cars and domestic brands aren’t any good will eat their words after an encounter with the Cruze.

Room for three rows of seats and plenty of payload is efficiently packaged in the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse. The environment is packed with technology and assembled with care, and the design wraps around occupants with a tasteful stylishness. Seven or eight passengers can be accommodated in the Traverse’s flexible interior. For full passenger capacity, a 60/40-split bench provides second-row seating. Captains’ chairs can be specified for the second row, instead, and the third row is split 60/40 to offer passenger space and cargo flexibility. Plenty of room is left behind the third row, unlike some vehicles that are so crammed full of seats that you must choose between carrying people or stuff because you can’t carry both.

It’s not just a big box with plenty of seats either. The Chevrolet Traverse carries lots of value for its $29,224 starting MSRP. Climate control with rear-seat controls, cruise control, a six-speaker audio system with an auxiliary input, MP3 playback and a three-month trial of XM Satellite Radio is standard equipment. Eight-passenger seating is also standard in the LS and 1LT trim levels. Stepping up from the LS trim through two levels of LT and to the top-dog LTZ nets plenty of comfort, convenience and luxury.

Available upgrades make the Traverse an even better fit for your life. Technology like a rearview camera integrated into the mirror (available in 1LT; standard in 2LT and LTZ) and an available ultrasonic parking assist system (standard in all but LS) helps keep the bodywork free from accidental scuffs. A power liftgate is standard on 2LT and LTZ trim levels, along with three-zone automatic climate controls, an upgraded 10-speaker Bose audio system and second-row captains’ chairs. Traverse LTZs are the most luxurious with perforated leather upholstery in the first two rows and heated and cooled front seats. Families will love the available DVD entertainment system, and you’ll all get there safely and securely with the optional navigation system that incorporates standard OnStar Directions and Connections.

Also helping you arrive without incident is the Traverse’s refined powertrain. All versions use a direct injected 3.6-liter V6 with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) that packs 288 hp (281 with single exhaust) and teams with an advanced six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is one of the biggest feathers in the cap of the Traverse. SUVs equipped with four-wheel drive have gotten families to Grandmother’s in time for Christmas dinner for ages at the expense of tidy on-road behavior and a large appetite for fuel. An all-wheel drive Traverse is even more secure in inclement weather with its intelligent system actively distributing the engine’s power based on speed and traction. Standard StabiliTrak stability control with traction control intervenes to keep things upright and moving forward as well.

In addition to StabiliTrak, the Traverse has a 360-degree safety system that includes a full complement of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners. The body is reinforced in key areas and high-strength steel is used in numerous places. The independent suspension offers more nimble handling than any truck-based SUV could ever pull off, too. Even though it’s not a truck, the Traverse doesn’t shy away from work. It’s capable of towing 5,200 pounds, impressive for this segment of vehicles.

Source: IMN

There is nothing quite like the confident growl of a powerful V8 engine, and the aural experience provided by so much horsepower can only be amplified by removing any obstructions that might be found between the ears and the exhaust system. When it comes to the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, putting the top down does so much more than just allow the wind to blow back your hair – it also gives you front-row tickets to one of the most impressive tailpipe concerts ever to leave the Chevrolet factory.

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible (MSRP $53,580) is the direct spiritual descendent of the very first vehicles to hit dealer showrooms bearing the Corvette nameplate. These original 1950s roadsters were meant to offer the pleasures of open-top motoring in a package that was as responsive to driver commands as the era’s design specs allowed. Flash forward to 2010, and the most recent edition of the Corvette convertible finds itself still positioned at the cutting edge of what modern high-performance technology can offer.

The Corvette platform was initially planned out with a convertible version in mind, which means that the topless edition of this classic sportscar enjoys all the rigidity and suspension tautness of the coupe model. This becomes readily apparent when flogging the Corvette convertible through twisty canyon roads, especially if the available Magnetic Selective Ride Control is onboard. This system employs unique shock absorbers containing a magnetic fluid that can respond to an electrical charge in order to alter the stiffness of their response. You can choose the comfort-oriented “Tour” setting, or go all-out by turning the console-mounted rotary dial to “Sport” to enjoy a ride that makes the most of the Corvette’s extensive handling palette.

There are several other high-performance personality traits built directly into the Corvette convertible’s DNA. For buyers who elect to purchase the vehicle with its standard short-throw six-speed manual transmission, an all-new launch control feature is included as standard. When the vehicle’s electronic stability control system is set to “competitive” mode, launch control automatically engages once the clutch and accelerator are pushed down to the floor. The Corvette’s computer brain keeps the engine speed at the best rpm for balancing traction and acceleration. When the clutch is released, the system continuously monitor’s engine output to maintain this delicate power delivery dance. The end result is the ability of the Corvette convertible to consistently pounce forward from a dead stop, making it one of the most driver-friendly performance cars on the market and giving those who compete in their Corvettes a nice edge.

The next link in the Corvette convertible’s performance makeup is found under the fiberglass hood. All drop-top Corvettes are equipped with a fire-breathing, 430-hp V8 engine that delivers 424 lb/ft of torque from its 6.2 liters of displacement. Want a few more horses? Opting for the available dual mode exhaust ups that output number to 436 hp, thanks to the introduction of special outlet valves that open up under full throttle to increase exhaust flow while still providing a controlled sound experience at normal speeds. In addition to the vehicle’s manual transmission, it is also possible to outfit the Corvette with a six-speed automatic transmission that provides manual shift control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. Despite offering such a staggering amount of horsepower, the Corvette convertible still achieves an incredible 26 mpg during highway driving, which places it head and shoulders above any other comparable sportscar.

Last, but certainly not least, it is possible to purchase the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible with either a standard manual top that operates via a simple, one-handed double latch or instead choose a power top that quickly and quietly stows the roof from the comfort of the driver’s seat. Either way, the Corvette is capable of going from buttoned-down and snug to wide-open sky in only a few seconds.

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible is more than just a living legend – this phenomenal roadster is a world-class competitor that offers a Jekyll and Hyde street and track personality that is rarely found in the sportscar universe.
Source: IMN

Volt runs on a pure electric charge for up to 40 miles(1)— gas and tailpipe emissions free
Once the initial electric charge is depleted, a small gas generator will kick in to seamlessly create enough electricity to continue to power the car for hundreds of miles

We invite you to join us in the movement to redefine what a car is and become a Chevrolet Volt insider. You’ll be among the first to get the latest news and updates.

Taking a bottom-to-top approach, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD gains an all-new frame that could gird bridge spans. Fully boxed, with larger cross sections and tubular cross members, the new frame also has an increased percentage of high-strength steel. The backbone improvements make the Silverado HD’s frame a much stiffer foundation for the completely new, independent front suspension.

Rendered from forged steel and cast iron, the suspension arms look like they’d be equally at home on a diesel locomotive. The super-durable construction also improves the load capacity of the front end. Bash over rocks at a job site or pound it mercilessly while plowing snow, the Silverado HD’s front suspension can shrug it off.

No matter what kind of violence is happening at the wheels, inside the cab of the Silverado HD, things have been retuned with an eye on increased serenity. Engine and transmission mounts have been upsized, and the significantly stiffer frame throws in to help quell vibration as well. Hydraulic body mounts further isolate occupants from external chaos, providing respite during toil.

A new heart adds muscle in the engine room as well. The new 6.6-liter turbocharged DuraMax diesel leads the heavy-duty pickup class in torque (a whopping 765 lb/ft) while also taking the fuel economy crown. The increased economy leads to a 63 percent reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions, too. Fully compatible with B20 biodiesel, the DuraMax is teamed with an unburstable Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission to put all the torque to the job.

If your needs don’t require the turbodiesel, the 2011 Silverado HD can also be equipped with a 6.0-liter Vortec V8. Burning gasoline and sporting variable valve timing, the Vortec V8 has a revised camshaft profile to enhance torque delivery and drives through a newly strengthened Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic transmission to make the best use of the brawn.

If your routine includes lots of towing, the Silverado HD has it covered. Nothing in the heavy-duty truck segment has a higher fifth-wheel rating than the Silverado HD’s 20,000 pounds. Conventional hitches aren’t far behind, either, at 16,000 pounds of capacity. Towing is enhanced by the DuraMax diesel’s exhaust brake. All Silverado HDs have trailer sway control, integrated trailer brake control, hill start and braking assist and automatic grade braking. All 2011 Silverado HDs are packed with the tools to confidently show the load who’s boss.

Don’t get the impression that it’s all work and no fun with the Silverado HD either. The exterior design alone is handsome and sculpted. This truck looks great whether it’s splattered in mud on the job or newly waxed on a lazy afternoon. Roomy extended cabs are easily accessed by rear doors that swing in a 170-degree arc, and cabins are filled with available technology like Bluetooth and standard OnStar (version 9). USB connectivity and mobile Wi-Fi are also available.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control’s safety chops are enhanced by a rear suspension that has been redesigned to keep towing a calm endeavor. The brawny frame improves crashworthiness, and there are plenty of airbags, too, including available seat/pelvic thorax and head side-curtain airbags for 2500HD models.

Strong like never before, filled with technology to make working easier, safer and more enjoyable, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD stomps into the segment at the top of the class. Putting a cherry on top of the sundae is GM’s five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the best out there. With an MSRP of only $27,965, just call it King of the Hill.

• Exterior Lighting – Put outdoor lighting on timers, photocell mechanisms or motion detectors. You definitely want to make sure your home has that occupied look to it. Any entry ways should also be well lit.

• Interior Lighting – Again if you can setup some timers to any interior lighting, TVs or radios. There again you want to make it seem like someone is home.

• Telephone Answering Maching – Set the machine to answer on 3 or 4 rings. Don’t leave a message that you’re out of town. If you don’t have an answering machine, disconnect the phone from the outlet.

• Keys and Locks – Don’t hide keys in mailboxes, under door mats or under flower pots. Those are the obvious places that people look. Leave a key with a trusted neighbor.

• Doors/Windows – All doors and windows should be locked, which is obvious. One door that is commonly left unlocked is the door that goes to the garage from the house.

• Security Systems – If your house is equipped, notify your service and advise them to call you on your cell phone if needed. Make sure your alarm system is armed when you walk out the door for the last time.

• Inform a Neighbor – Let your trusted neighbor know you’re going out of town. As stated earlier, you might give them a key. Also you might ask them to park a car in your driveway as this definitely gives that appearance of someone being home. Ask your neighbor to check the mail and the newspaper in case something gets delivered.

• Mail/Newspaper – Call the Newspaper to hold your subscription and have your mail stopped while you’re away.

You might inform your local police that you are going on vacation. Some police departments encourage you to inform them. Also if you have a Neighborhood Watch program, let them know as well. I hope some of these tips will help you have a more enjoyable vacation. Now go have a good time and remember to take plenty of pictures.

• First and foremost: slow down! It takes longer to stop or adjust in wet weather.
• Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
• Maintain proper following distance (3 Second Rule). This needs to be increased in wet weather.
• Drive in the tracks of a car ahead of you.
• Don’t follow large trucks or busses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
• Be more alert when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Watch out for brake lights in front of you.
• Avoid using your brakes; if possible, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
• Turn your headlights on even in a light rain, or in gloomy, foggy or overcast conditions. Not only do they help you see the road, but they’ll help other drivers see you. If your car has daytime running lights you still should put them on, so vehicles behind you can see you better.
• Before it starts to rain, replace old or brittle wipers.
• Avoid off-road driving: it’s hard to judge the actual depth of puddles and you can easily become stuck, even in an SUV.
• Never drive beyond the limits of visibility. At night rainy roads become especially treacherous. The glare of oncoming lights, amplified by the rain on your windscreen, can cause temporary loss of visibility while substantially increasing driver fatigue. In rainy conditions pedestrians, livestock, and wildlife are extremely hard to spot and even harder to avoid.
• Never drive through moving water if you can’t see the ground through it; your car could be swept off the road.
• When driving through a puddle of uncertain depth, go slow. If it’s deeper than the bottom of your doors, turn around and find another route. Deep water can cause serious damage to a modern car’s electrical system.
• Avoid splashing pedestrians.
• If possible, stay off the road during heavy thunderstorms. Large flashes of lightning can temporarily blind and disorient drivers, and the accompanying high winds and heavy rain can create deadly driving conditions.
Slow down! This should be obvious but it also very important. People are so used to driving certain speeds on certain roads that sometimes they forget the need to slow down when inclement weather presents itself.

Remember – “There’s no substitute for Common Sense”…..

84% of pet owners say they travel with their pet in automobiles
Source: American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2006 National Pet Owner Survey

If you’re planning to take your pet with you on trips in the car, start early when the pet is young to get used to the routine. Short jaunts across town and back or easy day trips will get your pet used to the ride. A carsick pet can make the trip miserable for everyone.

A seat upholstery protector, such as a pet hammock or waterproof seat cover will make clean-ups easier in case your pet does get sick or has an accident.

Be sure to bring along cleaning supplies to avoid having to search out a place to purchase them at the last minute.
Make your pet travel experience fun and enjoyable by following these simple, common sense tips:
• Safely secure your pet while traveling. An unrestrained pet can become a deadly projectile in the event of a sudden stop or crash, causing serious injury (even death) to passengers. For example, an unsecured, 25-pound dog in a 40 mph crash becomes a 1,000-pound mass (half a ton) flying uncontrollably inside the vehicle.
• Dogs should be restrained with either a seatbelt or harness designed for pet travel. Smaller dogs can be secured in pet car seats, which allow them to also see out, while being properly restrained.
• Never attach a restraining device to the pet’s collar. Always use a harness to prevent injury.
• Cats should be contained in a crate, cage or pet car seat that is secured with a seat belt. Never allow a cat to roam freely in the vehicle, as it could get tangled around the driver’s feet or get in the driver’s sight of the road.
• Do not allow your pet to ride with its head outside of the window. An obstacle close to the vehicle could potentially strike your pet’s head, causing injury or death, or dirt particles could get into your pet’s ears, nose, eyes, or throat, causing health problems.
• It’s a good idea to stop every couple of hours for your pet and you to stretch and walk around. Be sure to have your pet’s leash handy to have control and so your pet doesn’t run away in unfamiliar surroundings.
• Have your own supply of cold water, as fresh water is not always handy or convenient when you need to stop.
• Have your pet consume small amounts of food and water, but don’t allow to overeat or drink if you still have more traveling to do. Reserve your pet’s main meal for the end of the day.
• Leaving a pet in a parked car is never a good idea. Temperatures in confined spaces in the summer time can heat up fast, causing heatstroke — even death — to a pet. Extremely cold temperatures in the winter can be just as threatening, so be sure not to leave a pet in the car if the temperature is near the freezing mark.
• A pet first-aid kit is an essential item to pack when venturing out and should contain things such as antiseptic cream, assorted bandages, tweezers, eye drops, gauge, tape, and the like. Phone numbers for your pet’s vet, the National Animal Poison Control Center hotline @ 888-426-4435, and emergency pet hospitals in the areas where you plan to travel should be taken along.
• A travel tag on a pet’s collar will help someone locate you should you and your pet become separated. The travel tag should contain information about where you are staying locally (while away from home), including addresses and phone numbers. A cell phone number is also a good idea since most people have one with them, especially when they travel.

From PetTravelCenter.com