Traveling With Dogs: 8 Things to Pack for a Road Trip With Your Pup
Traveling with dogs can be fun and entirely stress free. We've got a list of exactly what to pack for your next road trip with your dog:
#1. Identification tag
Before you leave, get your dog microchipped or, if he has one already, update with both the microchip registration service and the vet. Update your dog’s tags, too, and ensure collars fit well and have no tears or other damage.
#2. Crate
“Even if you’re on the most pet-friendly vacation, there may be times when you have to leave your pet in the hotel room,” said Heather Hunter, AAA director of public relations and fellow pet parent. To prevent your dogs from dashing out if a maid or other member of the hotel staff opens the door, place them in a crate when you leave the room. Some hotels even have policies that require you to do so. Check with your hotel about this before you go.
#3. Harness
According to a AAA survey, more than half of drivers admit to being distracted by petting their dogs, and the risk of an accident increases when you take your eyes off the road for two seconds or more. Look for harnesses that have been crash-tested.
#4. Vaccination records & extra meds
Book a pre-trip appointment with the vet if your dogs are due for any vaccinations. Stock up on medications, too. Have your vet’s office give you your pets’ shot records to keep handy.
If you need guidance on understanding which vaccines your dog needs, we suggest you speak to a vet.
#5. First-aid kit
Pack it with bandages and other essentials, such as scissors, bandages, and a thermometer. (Check out How to Make a DIY First Aid Kit for Dog Travel on dogster.com.) Also create a list of animal hospitals along your travel route and at your final destination. If any emergency occurs, you won’t have to waste time researching.
#6. Bowls
Hunter uses a collapsible bowl for her trips, but feel free to bring your regular bowls or dog-friendly water bottles.
#7. Extra food
“Have plenty of what they are used to. Bring more than what you’re used to,” Hunter said. If your dog is prone to carsickness, feed him when you arrive at your destination and not before or during travel breaks.
#8. Toys
Favorite toys are always great to pack, Hunter said. Little comforts of home can make your pet feel more comfortable. I bring my dogs' favorite blanket.
Read more about traveling with dogs on Dogster.com:
Featured Photo Credit: Yekatseryna, Shutterstock
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Rachael has been a freelance writer since 2000. In this time she has had an opportunity to research and write about many different topics while working to master the art of fusing high-quality content with effective content marketing strategies. She is an artist at heart and loves to read, paint, and make jewelry. As a vegan, Rachael is obsessed with helping animals in need, both in her community and anywhere in the world where she feels she can make a difference. Animals also happen to be her favorite topic to write about! She lives off the grid in Hawaii with her husband, her garden, and her rescue animals including 5 dogs, a cat, a goat, and flock of chickens.
