Hitting the road this summer? With a little extra attention to the logistics, your next vacation can include the entire family.
Traveling with your dog can be fun and rewarding, especially if you’re properly prepared for the journey. Here are our best tips for pet parents planning a road trip with their canine companion in tow.
1. Prepare to Travel with Your DogBefore you disembark, make sure your dog is in good health. A visit to the vet can help you confirm that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and address any concerns you may have about travel-related health issues. This is also an ideal time to refill any prescription medications, so you don’t have to search for a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place.
Think through each phase of your trip, including the car ride, hotel stay, outings, and return home, to ensure that you have everything your dog needs.
A thorough packing list should include:
Some pets get excited at the sound of jingling keys, while others struggle with anxiety and car sickness. If your dog hasn’t spent much time in the car, help them get used to it by taking short, positive rides leading up to your trip.
To keep your dog safe and comfortable, consider using a crash-tested crate or dog seat belt. Introduce these items gradually, so your dog feels secure rather than confined.
Stops for exercise, food, and restroom breaks are an essential part of any road trip. Before you set out, research dog-friendly points of interest along your route, including parks, rest areas, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Plan to stop every 2-3 hours to give your dog a chance to drink some water, have a snack, and relieve themselves. Take a pass on roadside attractions and dining options that don’t welcome pets, and never leave your dog in a hot car, even for a short amount of time.
Your pets may not be able to ask “Are we there yet?” but prolonged boredom can easily turn into restlessness and anxiety. Pack a few of your dog’s favorite toys from home as well as something new to keep them engaged as the miles roll away.
Whether you’re staying with family or in a pet-friendly hotel or Airbnb, your destination is guaranteed to be filled with lots of unfamiliar sights and smells.
When you arrive, take a few moments to help your dog adjust to their environment. Set out a favorite blanket and bring their bedding or crate from home to help them feel more secure in the new space.
Before you choose your accommodations, take time to read through any pet policies and familiarize yourself with local leash laws.
No one wants to spend their whole vacation in the hotel, and neither will your dog. Make sure you know how and when you can include your dog in vacation activities so you can plan appropriately and make the trip fun for everyone.
At Falls Village Veterinary Hospital, a Raleigh, NC veterinarian, dogs, cats & their families deserve the best. In fact, we specialize in delivering warm, compassionate care that reminds our clients and patients how unique and important they truly are. We provide complete veterinary care including dentistry, laser therapy, surgery, and more. Call us today!
