With a little preparation, taking your dog along for the ride can be a rewarding experience for both of you.
Vacation time has finally arrived and you can’t wait to get out on the open road leading to your favorite destination. You’ve tied up loose ends at work and have excused the kids from school. There’s nothing standing between you and a week in paradise, except for your four-legged friend. You could recruit a pet sitter or check him into a doggie hotel, but these options can be expensive, and it is often difficult to completely relax when you’ve left your dog with someone else (no matter how competent and caring s/he may be). Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience for both you and your dog. If you’ve decided to take him along, here are a few tips to make the trip safe and enjoyable.
Safety
Keeping your dog safe is the number one priority. A long road trip should not be his introduction to riding in the car. Start with short distances to teach him to ride safely. He should ride in the backseat lying down, not on the console with his head pressed to the windshield, and not in your lap. Teaching your dog to ride safely could take days or months, so start preparing him well in advance of your trip. Once he’s mastered the technique, there are a few other measures you should take to ensure the safety of your dog.
- Vaccines – Before leaving town, check with your veterinary to make sure your dog is up-to-date on his shots. In a different region or state, your dog may be at greater risk for certain diseases. In some areas lethal rattle snakes and tics that carry lime disease are more prevalent.
- Preventive Medication – Your dog should also be current on his flea and tick preventive, as well as his heart worm medication. Pack his medication if his monthly dose falls within your vacation time.
- Leash – Because you will be an unfamiliar area, it is important to keep your dog leashed at all times. If he runs off, he will have a difficult time finding you again.
Packing
If your dog is comfortable, he is more likely to sleep and less likely to misbehave. Plan in advance and pack some of his favorite things.
- Water – Bring plenty of water, so you don’t have to spend your money on bottled water. Use an old milk gallon and don’t forget to pack a bowl.
- Food – Stick with the food that your dog is used to eating. If you try something new, you risk making him sick.
- Treats/Toys - Pack his favorite toys as well as a few new items to keep your dog occupied.
- Dog bed – If you can fit his bed in the car, it is best to pack it. If not, travel with a blanket that he uses. Your dog will rest better and be less anxious with familiar items.
- Poop bags – You’ll be stopping in public places, so bring something to pick up after your dog.
Stopping
- Rest stops –Try to coordinate your travel breaks, so you’re utilizing the rest stops. Don’t just stop for your dog to go to the bathroom, walk him around for a while to relieve some of his energy.
- Exercise – Before you leave, walk/run/play fetch/swim with your dog. Do anything you can to tire him out before embarking on your vacation. If he has not had his exercise, he will misbehave in the car.
