Summer is here, and many of us are eager to hit the road with our furry companions! Whether you're planning a camping trip, a beach vacation, or a road trip, it's important to make sure your dog is prepared for the journey ahead. Here are some tips to help your dog travel safely and comfortably this summer:
Plan: Before you hit the road, make sure you have all the necessary supplies, such as food, water, bowls, leashes, poop bags, and any medications your dog may need. If possible, bring travel bowls and containers that are stainless steel or BPA-free. If you don't have any you can get some here. Don't forget your dog's favorite toys or blankets to make them feel more comfortable in a new environment. An important item to bring that is often overlooked is a pet first aid kit. Here is the one I use. Having pictures on your phone of your dog's important medical records is also helpful; just in case of an emergency. Make sure to research pet-friendly hotels or campgrounds in advance and make reservations to make your trip as stress-free as possible.
Practice makes perfect: If your dog is not used to car rides, start with short trips around the block and gradually increase the duration and distance. This will help your dog get used to the motion and reduce the risk of motion sickness. It’s important to practice riding in the car before your trip. We want our dogs to be as comfortable as possible and getting them conditioned to the car is an important step. If you don't know how to get your dog comfortable with the car. Begin with simple trips walking to the car and letting them explore the car with their nose. After a few days of these trips, you can begin to practice your dog jumping in and out of the car. Once your dog can walk to the car and jump in and out of it without getting anxious, then you can start to do small trips around the block. If your dog is showing signs of anxiety then contact a trainer to assist with the next steps.
Safety first: Make sure your dog is secured in the car with a crash-tested harness or car seat. This will prevent your dog from getting injured in case of an accident and also reduce distractions for the driver. Having your dog secured in the car will help your dog feel safer and can reduce motion sickness. Motion sickness is very common for dogs because their equilibrium gets thrown off with the movement of a car. Please never allow our dog to have their head hang out the window during a car ride. This is extremely dangerous for you and your dog. When riding in the car your dog should be secured to the backseat with either a harness, crate, or dog car seat. This will ensure they are safe when in the car and it also helps your dog feel more secure which can reduce their anxiety.
Take breaks: Just like us, dogs need to stretch their legs and relieve themselves during long trips. Your dog will also still need some form of exercise. On these breaks during your trip make sure to give your dog at least a 10-15 min walk if weather permits. Allow your dog to sniff the area as well to help them use their nose to add mental stimulation. Plan frequent stops for potty breaks and short walks to keep your dog happy and comfortable.
Keeping your dog cool: Wherever you may be traveling to this summer, chances are it will be warm. Make sure to keep your dogs as cool as possible. The best way to do this will be to use a cooling mat. These are great for those hot summer days and can double as a "Place" mat. If you don't have a cooling mat then put water on your dog's paws, ears, and chest near their armpits with lukewarm water. Don't use ice-cold water to cool down your dog. That will shock their system. Make sure your dog always has access to water.
Remember, traveling with your dog can be a fun and rewarding experience, as long as you plan and prioritize your dog's safety and well-being. Happy travels!