Ways To Make A Road Trip With Your Dog Easier

If you intend to take a trip with your furry companion, you’ll need to take a few precautions to keep him happy and safe.

Plan Accordingly

Before you head out onto the open road, make sure your dog has gone to the bathroom, had some water, and is ready to go. Provide a safe place for him to travel in your car, pack a travel water bowl, food, leash, collar, toys, treats, any medication he may need, and a blanket. If your dog suffers from motion sickness, have him skip breakfast and give him the medicine he needs half an hour before your trip. If you plan before you go, you should have fewer problems and less stress on the road.

Take Frequent Breaks

Stop frequently to let your pet out to stretch his legs, relieve himself, and sniff around. Make sure your dog has a current identification tag on his collar and always use a leash at rest stops to keep your dog from taking off. Always clean up after your pup and give him fresh water when you make pit stops to keep him hydrated.

Keep It Ventilated

Dogs need fresh air in the car to combat motion sickness and to keep them comfortable on a road trip. Make sure your dog is receiving the air from the vents by positioning them up and back to keep your car well ventilated. If your dog rides in a carrier, make sure he can get plenty of air for the car trip.

Play It Safe

Just like you should wear a seatbelt to keep yourself safe, you dog should be strapped in as well. You can buy doggy seatbelt harnesses to keep your pup safe on the road, or you can crate your dog and secure him in. Just make sure your dog is comfortable either way and has room to reposition himself to stay comfy throughout the trip.

Provide Entertainment

You get bored during car trips, so it’s logical to think that your dog does as well. You can keep him entertained by bringing along a few of his favorite toys, but if you’re in for a particularly long trip, pick up a few extras. You can get a rubber toy that can be filled with hard-to-reach treats to keep him busy for hours. If your dog likes to de-stuff his soft toys, buy a ball with lots of openings and stuff it with strips of fabric and little treats to keep him distracted from the long trip.