How to Road Trip Successfully With Your Dog

With so many people pampering their pooches it isn’t surprising that many people travel with their dogs. This is especially true for short trips involving less than a day’s drive. With so many people hesitant to board their dogs in traditional kennels they often opt to take their four-legged friends with them. So how can you ensure a safe and fun-filled trip for your family and your dog? There are several steps you can take to ensure a fun-filled trip for all involved:

Do your Homework: Dogs have never been more popular than they are now and certain industries reserved for people are now rolling out the red carpet to welcome their pets. Some hotels offer doggie spas, special dog beds complete with treats on the pillows and doggie day care. There are a slew of web sites designed specifically to help you find dog friendly accommodations sure to please the entire family. Web sites are full-service sites allowing you to search for dog friendly beaches, RV parks, hotels, cabins and even resorts! You can also search your destination city for dog friendly eateries, off leash dogs parks and highway rest stop guides. When deciding on lodging choices make sure to call ahead to obtain the pet policy as there are typically fees involved. Ask the attendant if they have any breed or size restrictions and request a run-down of the fees involved. Hotels typically charge a nightly fee or a deposit and some charge a mandatory cleaning fee upon checkout.

Talk to Your Vet: When preparing for your trip, make sure to schedule a quick visit to your Veterinarian before you go. You should obtain a current rabies tag and a proper identification tag for your dog if he does not already wear them on his collar. While you are there you should request a copy of his vaccination records and any other pertinent health information. If your dog gets injured or falls ill on your trip those records will be helpful to a Veterinarian in another city who has never met your precious pooch. When traveling across borders into Canada or Mexico a certificate of health might be required so be prepared for that as well. You might also consider discussing a prescription for an anti-anxiety medication or a mild tranquilizer (depending upon how well your dog tolerates traveling in a car) with your Veterinarian.

Safety First: Always consider appropriate safety measures when traveling with your canine companion. Make sure he has a doggie seatbelt consisting of a properly fitting harness and an attachment for your car’s seatbelt to ensure he is safe and secure and remains in one place for the drive ahead. When making pit stops along the way try to stop at rest stops or welcome centers to allow proper places for your dog to eliminate and always make sure that Fido stays on leash when outside of your vehicle. Perhaps the most important safety measure of all is never to leave your furry friend alone in the car unattended. Dogs left unattended in cars (even with the windows cracked) run the risk of heat strokes and even death. Always leave the car running with the air-conditioning on when your pooch pal is in the car!

Pack Accordingly: Your dog loves his routine, but can enjoy a road trip if he is reminded of the security of home. Remember to bring his favorite blanket; the scent will remind him of home. Don’t bring too many toys to clutter your car, but one or two will be helpful in keeping him occupied. Also remember to bring enough food for the trip. The last thing you want to do is scramble around on vacation in a strange city looking for his brand of food if you run out. Try storing the food in a large plastic container or 2 quart storage bags that seal to protect freshness. Also remember to bring bottled water, travel bowls and any necessary medications. Now go and have fun with the two and four-legged family!

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