Dogs are part of our families and of course we would like them to enjoy the same feeling that we enjoy during vacations and road trips. Almost all families with dogs do that anyway, so it shouldn’t be a problem if you bring your dog with you.
And besides, it’s more fun to have a furry friend with you. In addition, you will not have to worry about whether your pet is well fed or if he is well when you leave him at home.
So, have you decided to take your dog on your next road trip? This is what you need to know.
Should you take your dog with you?
How is your dog feeling today? Is the sick? injured? pregnant? Then you should not take your dog for a walk.
If your dog is not trained to ride, especially during road trips, train him first. Not all dogs naturally travel in the car, so you should make your dog feel comfortable and safe before attempting to travel with it.
Some dogs get motion sickness, quickly become overstimulated, and become physically or emotionally upset. If that’s the case, the best option would be to keep him home first unless you find a way to deal with it.
Also, consider your destination. It will be fun from your dog’s point of view if he enjoys a trip to the beach or outdoors than being locked in a crate or restrained most of the time.
Visit your dog’s vet for a medical check-up before you travel. Make sure your dog is up to date on any necessary vaccinations. Ask for a health certificate if you can, as some states require him to have a recent health certificate and a rabies vaccination certificate.
Pack the essentials
When packing, include an ample supply of pet food and other necessities for your dog. Don’t rely on stopping at stores to pick up supplies or buy your supplies only when you’ve arrived at your destination, as they may not carry the right brand or supplies you need for your dog. It is not recommended to introduce your pet with a new brand of food when you travel. Other necessary pet supplies are:
- Water
- dog harness
- Transport bag (for small dogs)
- leash or harness
- pet seat cover
- First aid box
- Lavender oil, toys or other things that can calm your pet.
- Feeder
- toilet supply
ID
Make sure your pet has the correct identification on their collar. it could be an ID tag, a collar tag, or even a microchip attached to the collar. The pet ID must contain your home address with your phone number and other relevant contact information.
when you hit the road
Make sure your pet is safely restrained in your vehicle. Use a safety harness, pet carrier, or pet barrier in the vehicle. This keeps you and your dog safe and prevents any form of distraction when driving.
Never leave your pet alone in the car. On hot days, the temperature inside the vehicle can rise as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit even with the windows slightly open.
Just because you can go a hundred miles without resting, doesn’t mean your pet can. Make frequent pit stops and always provide frequent bathroom and exercise breaks. During pit stops, be sure to provide your pet with fresh water. This keeps them rehydrated, especially during long wrinkles.
Keep food to a minimum while traveling. Feed them regular pet food and never give them anything you eat, as this can sometimes give them stomach problems that you don’t want when driving.