Tips for Traveling with Your Dog in the Car

People plan their trips near and far as they head into the new year. Bringing your furry friends on a road trip may sound fun in theory, but the reality can be more challenging. Whether there are unsafe driving conditions for your four-legged friends or your pet is a stinker, a road trip can be stressful. Here are some tips to make a dog-friendly road trip work for you.

Pet-Friendly Route

When planning, add stops for your furry friend’s potty, exercise, and feeding breaks. Plan these breaks at safe, consistent stops to stretch your doggy’s legs. 

Practice

If your pet is uncomfortable with driving, taking practice trips can help prepare your fido. To ensure that your pet looks forward to another ride, try rewarding them at the end with a treat or trip to the dog park. 

Check With Your Vet

By consulting with your veterinarian before you embark on your journey, they can inform you whether your dog is healthy enough. If your dog has existing health conditions, it is essential to discuss how travel could impact your dog. It is also vital that your dog is vaccinated before traveling. If your dog gets carsick or anxious during trips, you may also inquire about medicines to help your dog during the journey. 

Pack

Choosing what to pack for your dog can be overwhelming, considering their food, toys, sleep, and everything else a dog may need. It is best to pack everything to ensure that you do not have to purchase stuff along your trip. 

Protect

While a dog is in the car, you can take precautions to ensure their safety. Items like a dog harness, seatbelt, and others can all protect your dog from an accident and possibly keep an accident from occurring in the first place. Dogs can be stressful, especially if they are stressed. Ensure no accidents occur by keeping your dog in one place, meaning no distractions will be present. 

Entertain

To keep the ride more manageable for all, entertain your dog with toys, chews, and anything else that will keep them preoccupied. Stopping for exercise and playtime may also be an excellent mechanism to prevent them from becoming a  distraction.

By preparing, you can ensure the enjoyment and safety of your furry friends. Travel is meant to be fun and exciting, so do not overwhelm yourself on the trip and plan ahead of time.