Taking a Road Trip with a Dog or Puppy
Many people have a strong passion for traveling, and taking your dog on a cross-country trip with you can elevate the experience to entirely new levels. Regardless of how much you enjoy traveling by car, it's crucial to plan ahead before deciding whether taking your dog along will be a good idea.
Even the most accustomed dog may not feel comfortable if it is forced to go across the nation for 12 hours in the backseat of a vehicle.
When your dog (and you) are ready for the journey before it begins, you can anticipate how your dog will respond in case of an emergency and make sure you both remain safe and healthy.
You shouldn't take your dog on a road trip without making adequate preparation, just as you wouldn't leave home without a substantial supply of snacks. Continue reading for our advice on how to get ready for a road trip with your dog or puppy.
What Requires Your Dog?
The fundamental requirements—dog food and medication—seem simple (if your dog takes medicine). That is not all, though. What will the dog be eating? Where are the foods kept? What about bowls for dogs and water? All of this takes up valuable interior room in your car.
Food
The ideal option is to purchase a 10-pound sealable food container for the food, and then place any drugs in the container's remaining space. Additionally, you want to pack a Ziploc bag with your pet's medical history, food, water, and a collapsible travel water bowl.
Comfy Things
Certain dogs, particularly puppies, may require comfort or enrichment items. Little puppies need to eat frequently since they are developing so quickly. Bring snacks to eat in between meals. Include a few quality chew toys (particularly for puppies who are teething) and some plush bedding so they can stretch out.
Some dogs may be content with a familiar toy or chewable item as enrichment items, but consider what will keep your dog occupied or distracted during a period of bumper-to-bumper traffic. If your dog enjoys peanut butter, now might be a good time to spoon some into a hollow toy and give it to them. Dogs can become sidetracked for hours while attempting to
a jacket or sweater
Consider the environment you will be traveling to. How cold will it be? Pack a dog sweater or jacket in case your dog gets cold easily if they have a thin coat, no undercoat, or very little body fat.
Preparing for the road through training
Make sure your dog is a decent canine citizen before embarking on a cross-country trip. The following abilities should be honed to improve good dog behavior:
- politely trotting without pulling on a leash
- not slapping people in the face when introducing yourself
- awaiting release before exiting the vehicle
- interacting with fresh canines
- contacting you again in an emergency
It can be dangerous to be so near to moving traffic if you suffer a flat tire, pull over to the side of the road, open your door, and your dog immediately follows you. You must educate your dog to wait; you must work on each of these habits before leaving on your road trip for the sake of both your safety and happiness.
medical planning
Make sure your dog is current on vaccinations and that you have a hard copy of those records before you travel. Obtaining a health certificate from your vet would also be advisable. Health certificates are necessary to fly a pet anywhere, and they may be useful if you have to answer questions from law enforcement about the condition of your dog.
It is beneficial to have a complete physical before you depart. By doing this, you may be sure that your dog is in excellent health before you fly to a foreign country without having a regular vet you can take your dog to immediately.
Travel Techniques
Your dog's car rides should be introduced gradually. Start with daily, brief drives to work or the park from your neighborhood. Then, progressively work up to hour-long automobile trips to enjoyable locations like a lake or another park.
Typically, there is a good mountain, river, or lake that would make a wonderful day excursion within an hour of any big city. If your dog hasn't had many lengthy car excursions that last five to ten hours, be sure to give them a try.
The Physical, Emotional, and Mental Cost of Riding a Dog
Making travel enjoyable for your dog should be your aim. Make sure the dog has had enough exercise and is a little fatigued before putting it in the car. An excellent suggestion is to treat your dog to a full day of daycare the day before a lengthy journey.
It's beneficial for the dog and also makes it possible to load the car and clean the house without a dog in the way. Your dog can play with other dogs all day while you go about your business (perhaps even with a bath or spa time). Without worrying about the dog, you may do all of your tasks, and the dog will be well-rested for the next day's vehicle travel.
Once on the road, frequently stop for restroom breaks so your dog may get some fresh air and explore a new region.
Treats ought to be a standard incentive for being a nice car buddy. To ensure that your canine companion will always want to board the car for the next leg of the adventure, keep things light-hearted.
