A Guide to Road-Tripping with Pups

If you’re planning a road trip, you might want to consider bringing your pups along for the ride. While the idea of road tripping with dogs sounds very exciting and fun, there are some things to keep in mind before embarking on this adventure. After all, if you’re planning a long-distance road trip, there needs to be some planning involved to ensure you (and your pups) are safe and comfortable.

Get Your Dog Familiar With Your Car

A road trip isn’t like a mile drive to the vet’s office. Odds are your dog has never spent more than 30 minutes in your car. So, before you start driving to the unknown, take some time to familiarize your dog with your car. 

Start by letting them in the car and sit still for a few minutes. You might bring their small bed or pet toys to keep them busy. Do this a couple of times. Next, head over for a drive and see how they behave. If they stay still, treat them to a Puppucino or their favorite treat to let them know they’ve done well. Continue this routine until your dog feels 100% comfortable in the car and that they don’t experience any anxiety while driving. 

Keep Them Safe in the Car

Accidents can occur in any circumstance; it doesn't matter where we are. Having your dog secured can be the best way to control them if anything happens. If your dog is traveling in the backseat, make sure to invest in a pet belt to keep them secure in their seats. If they’re traveling in the trunk, secure the kennel and ensure they have a stable position. No matter what, you should always avoid traveling with your furry friend on your lap or the front seat. These are the most dangerous places for both your pup and yourself. 

Plan and Be Prepared

Once you’ve chosen your destination, you need to do some planning ahead. First of all, check for any vets close to your final destination and any of your resting spots. As you’re getting ready to leave, make sure your pup also has their suitcase. Bring treats, foods, medications, favorite toys, and other items to help them feel at home. Also, don’t forget poop bags, trash bags, and a towel, in case you need to give your pup a quick bath on the road. 

Here’s a quick list of items to bring with you:

• Vaccination records
• Medication/Supplements
• First Aid Kit
• Treats, dog food, bowls, and bottled water
• Pet Car Safety Gear
• Poop Bag and Toys

Find Rest Areas

If you are traveling a long distance, check the route to find resting areas. Google Maps can show you all the parks, trails, and spots nearby the road. Also, this can help to see if there is any restaurant dog-friendly or with outdoor seating for you to grab a bite. Try to schedule rest stops whenever you know your dog is ready to go out. 

Traveling with your pup can be an enjoyable experience. Keep these tips in mind to ensure you have everything you need to have a safe and thrilling adventure with your furry friend. Enjoy this time with them!

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Geraldine Orentas is a writer from Happy Writers, Co. in partnership with pet mobility specialists, Walkin’ Pets.