Ahh, the open road, just you and your best buddy. So many beautiful memories are to be made on road trips with your dog. Good planning is essential to make the most of a long road trip with dogs. Being well prepared for a long car trip is also important to help you avoid the many things that can cause you unnecessary inconveniences and even serious problems along the way. So, use these key tips for road trips with dogs to thoroughly enjoy your journey and spend trouble-free hours, days, or even weeks traveling with your dog.
5 Top Tips for Car Travel with Your Dog
From creating a meal plan to creating a sleeping space for your dog to assembling vaccination records, there are quite a few chores to do in preparation for taking your dog on a road trip with you. Of course, it’s all well worth it for the immensely satisfying experience of having your dog as your canine travel companion. Here are some tips to help you get ready for an epic road trip with your dog:
Set Up a Dedicated Doggie Space in Your Vehicle
Make a cozy space in your vehicle just for your dog to enjoy the journey. Having his particular spot made up just for him will help him feel secure and confident throughout the trip. Maybe put his bed, favorite blanket, and a few favorite toys in the space. Make the doggie area spacious enough for him to sit or lie down and stretch out comfortably. If you’re traveling with multiple dogs, make sure you can accommodate each one with a space to rest.
Plan Your Pet’s Food and Water
Keeping your dog well hydrated is basic for a healthy and fun road trip.
FOOD: Try maintaining a feeding schedule similar to your dog’s home routine. That will help your dog feel secure during the constant change of locations during the long journey.
WATER: To avoid common overheating and discomfort dogs experience on long car trips, ensure your dog has easy and continual access to fresh cool water. Pack and replenish your water supply and take along a flat-bottom bowl for frequent water breaks. (A collapsible bowl saves storage space.)
Schedule Regular Bathroom and Stretching Breaks
Pick out good places to schedule stops for frequent doggie breaks to let your dog go to the bathroom and stretch his legs throughout the long trip. Find some spots all along the way with parks, walking paths, and other open natural spaces. Planning for these necessary stops helps minimize the stress of trying to find dog-friendly places quickly to stop during long-distance car travel.
Schedule a Health Check
Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date before traveling. Take copies of your dog’s vaccination records with you. Have a veterinary check-up before traveling. If your dog shows symptoms of seasonal allergies, be sure to take the necessary medication(s) to help him stay comfortable and happy.
Remember, Safety First!
Your pet should be microchipped and wear a secure and comfortable collar with a dog tag. That will ensure that he or she can be easily identified, and you can be contacted quickly if your dog becomes separated from you. Be aware of plants, water issues, extreme temperatures, and other environmental problems that can make dogs sick in areas where you’ll be traveling. Also, it’s well worth noting the nearby veterinarians on your travel route, just in case of emergency. Use this dog travel safety checklist from the Humane Society.
Portable Pet Doors for Lodging, from Pet Door Products
While you and the world’s best dog are off on your excellent adventures, perhaps you’re planning to rent a cottage, mountain cabin, etc. If so, you might want to take along a Pet Door Products portable window mount pet door. They’re portable and easy to install in a low window and remove in just minutes. It’s a perfect way to make the most of any vacation or rental home.
For information or to order a pet door for temporary installation, call Pet Door Products at (801) 973-8000, or contact us here on our website anytime!
Happy Travels!
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