Asa and I are planning to go on a lot of road trips this summer, to spend the day exploring new places, and we hope you are too. Therefore, today we are sharing our tips on how to prepare for a road trip with dogs.
Safety First: Just like your humans wouldn’t go on a car ride without seatbelts, you need to think about your safety too. Unfortunately though, vehicles don’t come equipped with safety features for dogs. Even more troubling is not all safety gear on the market for dogs is crash tested. So we recommend doing your homework before settling on a seatbelt harness, crate, or carrier for your trip. Personally, we love our Variocage travel crate, and highly recommend it for its crash tested features.
First Aid Kit: In addition, remember that first aid kit we talked about earlier this year? Well don’t forget it at home! There are many dog friendly ones available to purchase, or like us you can put together one yourself that is more personalized for your adventure needs.
Go Bag: In addition to our first aid kit, we bring along a backpack filled with the essentials of water, bowls, poop bags, extra leashes and collars, treats, hiking gear, and any toys we might want such as a ball. Also it is a good idea to pack a towel or two, because let’s face it, dogs can be messy. We also bring along extra food, because sometimes even a day trip can last longer than expected and we don’t want to be caught off guard without dinner.
Food Safety: Speaking of dinner, humans can be in such a rush these days. But please don’t feed us while driving! Well that is unless you want to clean up vomit in your car. Remember on a road trip the journey is just as fun as the destination. So if you need to stop to let us eat, go ahead. It is all part of the adventure. And be sure to give us time to rest our bellies before hitting the road again. Another thing to keep in mind, when enjoying dining at a dog friendly restaurant, although we all love to try new foods on an adventure, try to stick to familiar foods so we don’t get an upset tummy. Also we highly recommend bringing your own water from home. Not all water tastes the same, especially to connoisseur canines. Be cautious too about water bowls you find available on your journey. Although well-meaning, if they are not cleaned regularly, they could have bacteria in it and could lead to an upset tummy. Our rule of thumb is pack the amount you think your dog will need for your trip, and then double it! Also if you are heading out on a warm summer day, be sure to bring ice to keep pups feeling cool and refreshed.
Proof It Is You: We also recommend that your humans confirm they have the most up to date records on their phones for your rabies and other vaccinations, and any medical information someone should be aware of in an emergency. Having paper copies in your Go Bag isn’t such a bad idea either. In an accident, veterinarians don’t always have access to your humans’ phone. Also have a current full body photo in case you get separated, and your family needs to make lost dog flyers. And of course make sure your id tag is current and attached firmly to your collar. In addition, if you are microchipped, have your vet scan it to make sure it is still working, and contact the company it is enrolled with to make sure the information is current.
Joy Is In the Journey: Before heading out, plan your route with plenty of opportunities to get out and stretch your legs at dog friendly stops along the way. Also have a backup plan in case you arrive at your intended destination and discover the dog rules have changed, too crowded, or it just isn’t what you expected. In addition, always do your homework before leaving the house to know the rules. Even if it is a place you’ve visited before, dog ordinances can change. And humans never leave your dog unattended in the vehicle! No leaving a tired pup while you go dine or go inside someplace for a “moment.” Cars can heat up quickly, even on cooler summer days, and never leave a dog alone in a running car with the AC on. Air conditioners can shut-off, and curious paws can knock cars into gear. If you leave the house as a pack, stay as a pack!
Be a Dog Ambassador: Remember wherever you go, we are representing all dogs! It doesn’t matter if you are just passing through for the day, staying for vacation, or live in the area. Humans are watching, and taking note. It is odd they hardly ever remember the good dogs obeying the rules, but they do remember the ones who misbehave. All it takes is a few negative experiences, and humans start changing the rules or banning dogs outright. So please while hitting the road this summer be a positive dog ambassador! Always obey the leash rules, pick up the poop, and respect the wildlife and people that you meet along the way.
Practice makes perfect: Also humans don’t assume your dog likes long car rides. Before heading out this summer on an epic road trip, take a few shorter trips to unfamiliar places to get your pup use to the idea. Some dogs get nervous around new places. Other dogs are fine for short rides, but get car sick on long distances. By taking practice runs, you may be able to identify these issues early, and then work with your vet and/or dog trainer on how to make this road trip enjoyable for everyone!
