Safe travel with a dog by car: what is it

When planning a trip, you’ve probably made a list of things you need a long time ago, including snacks, water, and entertainment for many hours ahead. Is there a similar list for your furry travel companion?

The safest way to travel with your dog in a car is to be prepared. It will not be difficult for you to include a pet in your long-distance travel plan. And if you follow a few simple tips for transporting dogs in a car, you can make the trip less stressful for both of you.

1. Limit the dog’s ability to move around the car

The safest way to travel with a pet is to use a dog carrier or crate in the car. If that doesn’t work for you, try fastening it with a dog harness. We have all seen pets gleefully poking their faces out of the window of a passing car. But transporting dogs in a car without special accessories is dangerous. An unrestrained dog could be ejected from the vehicle or injured by the airbag in the event of a collision. It is also unsafe for the driver and passengers: if the animal starts to get nervous or worried on the road and run around the car, this can distract the driver’s attention and lead to an accident.

2. Make sure the dog wants to ride with you

Although many dogs will be happy to ride in a car, some dogs are not interested in such events at all. Your dog may get sick in the car, experience travel anxiety, or otherwise prefer to stay at home. Before you go on a serious journey, take your dog for a test drive to see how comfortable it is in the car. If she’s nervous, it might be best to find a babysitter or nursery for her during the trip. If you can’t leave your pet at home, talk to your veterinarian about possible solutions to motion sickness or anxiety.

3. Prepare a dog travel kit

Just like your own travel bag, a dog travel kit should include food, drinks, and entertainment. You need to take food, a bowl, water, treats or your favorite toy. The kit should also include a leash, grooming products, waste bags and all necessary medicines. Your dog may need a comfortable blanket to rest on. Need more ideas? Make a list and check it before every trip. Make sure food, treats or medicines are out of the dog’s reach. It is unlikely that you will be happy if, upon arrival at your destination, you have to run to the pet store and buy food instead of rest, because the dog secretly ate his ration in the back seat all the way.

4. Update tags

The worst feeling in the world is to realize that the dog is lost. Before you travel—or every time your address changes—make sure your dog tags are up-to-date. Check that the address and phone number on her microchip are up to date. You don’t want to lose your pet hundreds of miles from home! If you are leaving a region or even a country, be sure to bring along a veterinary passport with information about the dog’s vaccination or proof of rabies vaccination in accordance with local pet laws. Before you travel with your dog, it is always a good idea to check the relevant laws of the country, state, and region you are traveling to to ensure you are in compliance.

5. Don’t forget to water your dog and keep him comfortable.

You may want to drive non-stop to get to your destination as soon as possible. It won’t be fair to your dog. Bring water bottles for your pet and make stops so he can drink, stretch and rest. It’s best to do this every few hours. If you plan to get to the place during the day, do not feed the animal during the trip. An overeaten dog may begin to stir up or even vomit. It’s best to plan stops before you start your trip to make sure your dog has a chance to relieve himself on the grass.

Comfort stops can be an adventure in and of themselves. Find restaurants with sundeck, walk your dog at rest stops, and look for pet-friendly hotels. Never leave your pet alone in the car, even with the windows slightly open. A locked car can quickly reach dangerous temperatures. Many countries have laws that allow people to break into a car if they see a dog locked in it.

Finally, while driving, do not forget to check if everything is fine with the dog, and keep the temperature in the car comfortable for him. You can open the windows if the pet is locked in the dog carrier in the car seat. But do not let her stick her head out – she may get hurt. Never carry a dog in the back of a pickup truck unless it is locked in a cage.

Feeling a little more ready to hit the road with your dog? Wonderful! A little preparation – and you will have a wonderful journey together, which will leave many unforgettable memories in your heart.