Essential tips to make your dog trip safer

Having your dog along with you on a trip can be loads of fun. It can be exciting as most of us consider dogs as part of our family. But that is only if you make all the right arrangements. A  poor planning can be a fatal disaster for everyone, especially for your pet.

So we decided to share some wonderful tips to ensure the vacation is as smooth as possible with your furry companion.

 

Preparing Your Dog ready for travel

Road readiness evaluation

If you are planning to take your canine pal with you, make sure to choose the best and safest option for him/her. In case you would not be spending much time with your dog, he would be much happier and content at home than taking that trip along with you.

Health & Safety

In order to make the trip enjoyable, it is always recommended to take your canine companion to a vet. Make sure of all vaccinations and if necessary the health certifications done. And be sure to carry any medications he/she requires during the entire trip.

Crates

A mandatory for air travel, a crate is one of the best ways to ensure your fluffy companion sound and safe.  It is available in all pet stores and in different sizes. Never push/shove your dog to the crate, instead let him choose to go on his/her own into the crate.

Travel Kit

In addition to food & medications, ensure a travel kit which has a waste scoop, plastic bags and rooming supplies before you hit the roads.

Identification

It is always nice to have your dog undergo basic training and also have a collar with identification at all times. With the help of a vet, a microchip can be implanted under the skin with no pain on your pal. This could provide an added security measure.

 

Ground Rules for any travel

Although they are away from home, ensure your pet gets playtime, regular walks, fresh food and water. Plan in advance for your pet’s travel feeding schedule.

Follow leash laws wherever required. Do not leave your dog alone in the room in case he/she barks a lot. If needed to leave him/her in the room alone, let the front desk be aware about the same.

 

Road travel for Rover

Among all, road travel is one of the best options for canine companions. But it is better to take these steps to ensure a smooth ride.

Test run – Taking your companion on shorter drives and seeing his/her response would be great to access car sickness or anxiety or any other problems.

Safety always - Restrain your dog with the help of a pet seat belt or travel crate while travelling. Ensure the heads and paws are always inside. Safety has to be ensured while travelling in the car. Do not travel in an open pickup truck with your pet on its back. Worse, do not ever leave your canine pal alone in the car as the heat is hazardous to dogs and car temperatures can heat up pretty high in short span of time.

Pit stops – During the trip, ensure he/she gets plenty of rest stops. Ensure your pet leaves the car with at least a leash, collar and ID tag.

Having another human friend – Sharing the driving along with pet care can lessen the stress on you. Besides having someone you trust to have a close eye on your pet is always helpful during a trip.

 

Other incredible tips

Keep familiar toys or blankets near your furry pal to bring in a sense of comfort.

Thundershirt is a great drug free option in case your pet can get nervous. It eases anxiety by targeting the pressure points.

Check for dog-friendly properties while planning your destination. Websites such as HolidayPorch provide tons of information and could even assist in your trip.