Are you planning a road trip this summer? Do you want to take all your family with you, including your dog? With a little pre planning and patience, you can successfully bring your furry friend along. Traveling in a car with a dog is much like traveling with a very young child. Let’s take a look at some of the comfort and safety measures you can take to make your trip successful and fun for all!
- Just like anyone else in the car, Rover needs proper safety restraints. An unrestrained dog poses a potential safety hazard for himself and everyone else in the car. Sorry, but your dog does not have a driver’s licence and should not be in your lap, regardless of how much fun he is having. Pet supply stores carry a wide variety of travel crates or seat belt harnesses that require little to no installation. Or, there are easily installed devices that can separate the back of the car from the front, keeping the family’s favorite member comfortably in the rear of the vehicle.
- Pack a few essentials. Remember to pack the car with your dog’s leash, favorite toys, food, water, dishes, dog bed, dog waste bags, comb or brush, and any medications. Make sure that his or her collar has identification tags with a mobile phone number so you can be reached in the event you become separated from each other.
- Map out rest stops. You’ll want to be sure that you have planned stops for your dog (and yourself!) The dog will need to get out every now and then to stretch his legs, get a drink, and answer nature’s call. Be sure he is securely on leash and please be a good pet owner and clean up your dog’s waste, (nobody wants to step in your dog’s doo-doo!)
- Check with your vet before you go. You may need to visit the veterinarian before you leave on your trip. Many places require health certificates especially if you are traveling out of your country of origin. If your dog is a nervous traveler, the vet may be able to give you some medication to help.
- Make sure your hotel accepts pets. Believe it or not, some people actually try to take their dogs into a hotel that does not accept pets. This is never a good idea. Even if you are successful in smuggling the dog in, you could be held financially accountable for any damage caused by your precious puppy. There are more places now than ever that accept pets, make sure the place you stay is one of them.
Regardless of where you are traveling these tips can help keep everyone healthy, happy, and safe. Enjoy your trip!
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