Traveling with your dog can forge a closer relationship while you create lifelong memories. But it is not as simple as one thinks, it demands lots of planning and attention to take your furry companions on a road trip. If you take your dog on a road trip, fly to a new destination or take public transportation keep in mind your furry friend’s needs. To ensure a successful and stress-free adventure, we detail the key does and don’ts of traveling with your dog in this blog.
1. Do Plan Ahead
Planning is Key for Traveling with Your Dog Check The Rules Of Different Modes of TransportationThere are different rules for pets on unnecessary modes of transportation so make sure to check them out. Flying dogs : If you must fly with your dog (or cat), contact the airline to learn their animal policy, create criteria and if your dog can fly in the cabin or cargo. Plan dog-friendly pit stops, hotel and restaurant rest stops whenever you are taking a road trip. Be aware that some places require a specific pet identification, like rabies vaccinations or pit bull late bans so please always verify what those are in order to save packing up and needing another direction.
Looking forward also consists of taking the right supplies for your pup. Your checklist for essentials should include… food, water, a bowl to drink out of (portable), leash, waste bags and toys they enjoy playing with. Do not forget to pack any medication that your dog may need, and a first-aid kit in case of emergency.
2. Don’t Skip a Vet Visit
He should be given a general check-up by the vet before making any long trip. This becomes more relevant if you plan on traveling a long distance, or your dog is required to fly as it can cause more stress. Seek guidance from a vet for anything travel related and ensure your pooch has up-to-date vaccinations. For international travel, some countries may need a health certificate or certain vaccinations in order to enter so it is essential.
Your veterinarian can also offer recommendations on how to treat any motion sickness or anxiety that your dog may have while traveling. If necessary, they can also prescribe a safe anti-anxiety medication or sleeping aid to keep his body still throughout the trip.
3. DO Get Your Dog Accustomed to Traveling
If you are planning on hitting the road for a long trip, training your dog to travel is essential — especially if he has not been on a road trip before. The next step is training your dog to ride well in the car. Gradually increase the length of this kind of journey, so it resembles going on long trips. Your vet may be able to recommend a solution if your dog tends to get motion sick.
If you are flying, have your dog get used to their flight crate long before your planned travel date. Spend time in the crate with your dog by keeping a familiar bedding with toys inside. You are creating a refuge to decrease your dog’s stress while traveling in the future.
4. Avoid Feeding Right Before Travel
A common error pet owners make,feels their dog before heading off to trip. Although you definitely want to make sure your dog stays hydrated, feeding them a full meal right before the go for a drive can cause stomach discomfort or upset and motion sickness. With this in mind, for a happier and less messier experience give him a light meal 3 – 4 hours before you hit the road. Schedule frequent stops where your dog can stretch, go potty, and have a quick snack should you be on a long road trip.
If you overfeed your dog or offer it too many treats during travel, this can result in stomach upsets. During rest breaks on a road trip give them small snacks, easily digestible.
5. Secure Your Dog Safely in the Car
It is important that you keep your doggie as safe a passenger as the other people riding in the vehicle. Do not let your dog run free in the car; it is a safety hazard for you, and the dog. An unrestrained dog can become a projectile and be harmed in sudden braking or crash. A crate, pet seat belt, or car harness are options for keeping your dog secure.
Ensure your dog has their own, non-cluttered space in the car that they can feel comfortable. Avoid having your dog’s head extended to the window because something in its eye or ear can even damage it. When traveling a long distance, the safest place for your dog is often to put him in a crate in the back seat of my car.
6. Leave Your Dog Locked in a Hot Car
The golden rule of traveling with your dog is to never, under any circumstances, leave them in a hot car, even for just a little while. Your dog could get heatstroke and die in literally moments, because a parked car can turn into an oven almost instantaneously on even just a sunny day. NB: even if the windows are slightly open, or it’s not as hot outside as you think, a car can heat up to dangerous levels in just a few minutes.
If you need to stop and take a break or leave the car, take your dog outside with you or have someone stay in the car while it runs the air conditioner. The safety of your dog should always be a priority and this is not a risk worth taking.
7. Do Take Frequent Breaks
Dogs need breaks just like people after all, especially on long trips. If you are driving, make sure to plan for frequent stops so that your dog can get out and also go potty. This also allows the dog to limber up a bit and burn off some excess energy, which in turn means reduced stress levels and fewer needs for any movement in your car.
Every time you pause… give your dog some new water and allow them to drink. Dogs may become dehydrated faster than we give them credit for, particularly if they are in hot weather or have been stuck in a small area. Having some routine downtime can offer you a chance to play or engage your dog mentally mid-travel.
8. Anxiety In Dogs Is Not To Be Ignored
Although there are dogs who love to travel, some may feel anxious or fearful, more so in new surroundings or for long distances. Symptoms, such as too much panting, whining or drooling, may be signs of anxiety. Ignoring the fact that your dog is anxious is much more detrimental. That stress can be relieved in a few ways.
Make your dog feel at home by bringing along his favorite things like their blanket, toy or bed. Whether by playing soothing music or using pheromone sprays meant to calm dogs, it can be of great aid. In very severe cases where the anxiety cannot be managed there are prescription medications for dogs that can help.
9. Identify and Microchip
Whenever we’re off on any outing, ensure your pooch is wearing recognizable proof should they get lost. TagCollar — Their collar should have a tag with your phone number, and up-to-date contact info on it. Benefits: aside from having a microchip, this is an additional identification for your dog. Permanent Identification: Microchips are a great way to ensure that your dog will be traceable if lost and found.
Make sure their microchip information is current especially if your phone, address or has just changed.
Conclusion
Seeing the world with your dog can be a great way to expand both of your views when it comes to new adventures, but this takes some special planning and thought. Following these does and don’ts can aid in making sure that your dog is traveling safely, comfortably and having a happy time on the ride. After all, if you are going on a long journey or flying to a foreign country, your dog should be treated with the same caution and love that you would give YOURSELF. When done correctly and thoughtfully, memories can be cherished forever — yours and your four-legged companions. Safe travels!