Traveling with your tail-wagger adds a whole new dimension to a road trip. Every dog parent has dreamed of vacationing with their furry babies. And dogs are equally delighted to partake, too.
Although they are valuable cargo, traveling with them for extended periods requires special care.
Pet travel essentials are no less relevant than human travel essentials. Preparation is particularly critical when planning a long trip.
Thus, before embarking on your road trip, be sure to prepare the following for a memorable adventure for the whole family:
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Visit the vet!
Schedule a trip to the vet ahead of time to make sure your companion is fit to travel. To keep your furry friend healthy, make sure they have up-to-date vaccinations and that you have enough medication on hand. Additionally, if you plan to cross a state or country border with your pet, you should get a copy of its vaccination records.
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Train your dog for long car rides!
If you want to train your pet to travel long distances, it is best to start with several shorter journeys. Once your dog is accustomed to the open road, slowly increase its driving time. Be extra cautious while driving with your pet to keep them safe and calm.
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Ensure your dog has proper identification!
Getting a microchip for your pet is an excellent idea for traveling. In the absence of a microchip, make sure your dog has a collar that contains current contact information.
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Get your pet a cozy crate!
If your dog has gotten used to being in a car and is well behaved, you may think it’s alright to let them roam freely in it. The opposite is true. If we wear seatbelts for safety, shouldn’t we do the same for our beloved pets? Security is vital for dogs in cars to prevent accidents and to prevent them from jumping out unexpectedly. Traveling with pets is best done with plastic crates.
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Don’t forget the dog necessities!
Pack just as you would for yourself for your dog.
- Ensure there is enough food and water to sustain your long trip.
- Make packing easier by bringing a collapsible water bowl.
- Be sure to bring your dog’s leash, a garbage scoop, and poop bags.
- Prepare a bag with their favorite treats and toys.
- Pack lightweight T-shirts, which will protect them from the sun as well as keep them warm.
- A pack of pet wipes for cleaning muddy paws.
- Supplies and a towel for grooming.
- Blankets and a bed to keep them tucked in throughout the night.
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Be sure to factor in the weather!
Dogs cannot communicate their discomfort, so you must remain aware of their temperature and how it may affect their well-being. Please click here for an in-depth look at the dog’s behavior. When your pet is traveling during a cold season, consider purchasing a dog jacket or vest, and maybe shoes to prevent their paws from freezing. When it is hot outside, roll down the windows or turn on the air conditioning to keep your dog cool.
Take frequent breaks!
Even though you may be a “hit hard on the road” kind of person, it may not be ideal for your pet. Making pit stops for poop breaks and letting your dog out will help make the trip much less stressful.
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Get a first aid kit ready!
Besides your medications, you should also have first aid supplies on hand for when your pup gets injured. Make a note of veterinary clinics within driving distance just in case an emergency occurs. If your dog eats something they shouldn’t, carry hydrogen peroxide, which induces vomiting, as well as gauze and bandages to stop bleeding.
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Prepare for the wrath!
While road-tripping to a far-off location, your dog will encounter unfamiliar risks. Keep an eye out for any chemicals or food they might come in contact with that could harm them. You never can predict just how your dog will react in any situation, especially when traveling. Additionally, keep a recent picture of your dog in case it gets lost suddenly.
Never leave your dog alone in the car!
When going on a road trip, people tend to slack on this one. Even with proper precautions, extreme temperatures can quickly create dangerous conditions inside a car. Travelers may either take their dogs with them or leave them with someone else.
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For a little extra planning, here are a few more tips:
- Before a long drive, avoid feeding your pet a large meal. Feed your dog a light meal 3-4 hours before heading out.
- A hotel might ask you to leave if your dog sounds the alarm at night. You can get white noise apps for your smartphone; they’re easy to find. White noise apps will keep your dog from hearing too much outside noise at night.
- Avoid having the dogs stick their heads and paws out of the window. The strong winds can cause damage to their eyes and ears. The windows should only be left open if your dog is confined in a kennel or restrained in a pet seatbelt.
- Try to keep your dog’s mind engaged by giving him a Kong or food puzzle while driving.
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Driving with your dog can be challenging. However, with a bit of planning, some precautions, and a watchful eye on your pet, you’re sure to have a smooth time on the road. Next time you plan a road trip with your dog, make sure you utilize this checklist. Happy traveling to you and your pooch!
