Travel Tips: How To Prepare For A Road Trip With Your Dog

Many of us love to take vacations. If you’re planning a break, and you’re keen to take your four-legged friend with you, a road trip is a great idea. To make traveling with your dog fun, stress-free and safe, here are some top tips to help you get ready. 

Choose a suitable destination

Road trips are a brilliant way to explore and discover new places without any pressure to meet deadlines or stick to a rigorous itinerary. The first step to take when planning your trip is to choose a destination. Think carefully about the kinds of locations you want to visit, how you want to spend your time and how much traveling you want to do. If you’re taking a canine companion on vacation with you, it’s best to choose a destination that is suitable for pets. Consider outdoor space, climate and travel time and think about the kinds of activities and excursions you want to include in your plans. Explore and research accommodation options and check the weather forecast. 

 

Get your vehicle ready

If you’re hitting the roads, you’re probably taking your own car, truck or campervan or hiring an RV. If you’re using your own vehicle, it’s wise to get ready in advance. Carry out basic checks, including the tires and oil and water levels and make sure you’re up to date with routine maintenance and services. Have a look online for seat covers for trucks for dogs or lay down an old blanket or a dog bed to ensure your travel buddy is warm, cozy and comfy throughout. If you’re hiring a vehicle, make sure you check restrictions on pets. Some companies may not accept pets, or there may be an additional deposit or cleaning charge, for example. Carry a first aid kit and a bag of essentials for your dog, which contains bottled water, a food and water bowl, food, treats and a lead and collar. 

 

Plan your route

It’s beneficial to plan your route whenever you’re undertaking a long journey, but it’s particularly important to research if you’re traveling with a dog. You’ll need to find places to stop so that your dog can go to the toilet, stretch their legs, get some fresh air and have some food and a drink. Try to avoid driving for hours on end between destinations and don’t leave your dog in the car for long periods if you stop. 

 

Seek advice

Some dogs love going in the car, but for others, traveling can be problematic. Some dogs get anxious and others may get travel sick. If your dog hasn’t traveled before, or you think there’s a risk that they may feel scared or they’ll vomit, seek advice from your veterinarian. 

 

There’s no better travel companion than your pet dog. If you’re planning a road trip, and you’ve got company in the form of a four-legged friend, it’s advantageous to make plans before you set off. Research destinations, get ideas from other dog owners, explore accommodation options and get your vehicle ready. Stop frequently, make sure you’ve got food, water and comfy bedding with you and seek advice to make sure your pet feels calm and relaxed.