Taking road trips with your dog can be super enjoyable, or super stressful if you’re not prepared. To help you prep for a smooth and memorable road trip with your furry best friend, I’ve gathered all the information you and your pet need for a safe, happy, and comfortable trip.
Tips for road trips with your dog
Before getting on the road, here are some tips for a smooth trip with your dog:
1. Go for a test drive
You need to test the waters before committing your dog to a long journey with you. Take a two-to-four-hour test drive and see how they react to this. They are ready for the road trip if they can travel without getting motion sickness, agitated or anxious.
2. Update your dog tags
Have you updated your information since you got your dog? Ensure that the contact information on your dog’s tag is up to date in case your dog somehow gets away—accidents do happen! The same goes for the contact information associated with their microchip. It is also a good idea to have updated pictures of your dog.
3. Exercise your dog before the road trip
Exercise or training is the best way to tire your dog before a long trip. This will help them get sleepy during a road trip. When your dog is sleepy, the car’s motion will lull them to sleep, and they might sleep for a few hours or the entire trip.
4. Get a crate for the trip
Whether using your car or car hire, you will need a crate for road trips with your dog. Dogs love to be co-pilots, placing their paws on the centre console and leaning in as much as possible. As much fun and cute as this is, it’s often distracting and potentially dangerous. It’s not safe for your dog to move around or jump onto your lap while driving, and that’s why you’ll need a crate to keep them secure in the backseat.
5. Pack extra dog food
As you’re busy packing for your road trip, don’t forget to pack your dog’s favourite food. Always remember to pack extra dog food to avoid the hassle of finding your dog’s favourite food on the road. Along with food, carry a few bottles of water, and whenever you stop for gas or to stretch your legs, check to see if the dog needs some water, and remember to take them for a bathroom break right after.
6. Pack some toys to keep your dog occupied
Toys are often overlooked when packing for a road trip with a dog. Toys keep your dog occupied and entertained, which prevents them from getting antsy and ruining your trip. You’ll need to get more durable toys for a road trip.
7. Stop frequently for bathroom breaks
Bathroom breaks are important for you and your pooch, especially when travelling long distances. If you’re travelling with a puppy, plan your breaks every one to two hours and every three to four hours for adult dogs. It is also important you use this time to exercise your dog to get their energy out.
8. Invest in a seat cover
This is particularly important if you’re using a car hire for road trips with your dog. Even if you groom your dog frequently, they somehow still manage to dirty the seats. A seat cover protects the seats and prevents your dog from causing any damage, in turn saving you money.
9. Take a trip to the vet
A road trip with your dog exposes them to new places and environments. Before getting on the road, it is advisable to take a trip to the vet and ensure that your dog is up to date with their latest shots, especially rabies, canine hepatitis, parvovirus, distemper and tick medicine. If your dog takes daily medication, remember to carry it with you.
10. Pet proof your vehicle
Before hitting the road with your dog, check and clear out anything that your dog could potentially chew and eat in your car. Crating usually helps with this, but big dog owners will need to pet-proof their cars since most of them don’t fit in crates.
11. Don’t leave your dog in the car unattended
Most dog owners already know that leaving dogs alone in the car is dangerous, but did you know that If a dog becomes ill or dies due to such conditions, owners can be charged with the offence of animal cruelty under the Animal Welfare Act 2006? To avoid people forcibly entering your car to rescue your pet, get your errands done before road-tripping with your dog.
12. Book pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re going on a long road trip to Norfolk County with your dog, you might need to stay at a hotel overnight. Several hotels, including The Norfolk Mead Hotel, The Wayford Bridge Inn Hotel, The Rising Sun, and Marsh Farm Holiday Park, offer pet-friendly accommodation at a small pet fee. However, note that some locations might not allow certain pets or have size limitations, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead. Use the pet-friendly filter on KAYAK to see Stays that will also welcome your trusty companion.
13. Pack a bag for your dog
It is easier when you pack a separate bag for your dog. Separating your items from theirs makes it easier to access them on the ride. Some must-haves for a road trip with your dog include a leash, poop bags, treats, a water bowl, chew toys, a food bowl, a brush, medication, and dog
shampoo.
More pet friendly travel tips
