13 Tips for an Enjoyable Road Trip With Your Dog - Canine Campus Dog Daycare & Boarding

Some families can’t imagine taking a trip without their family dog. In 2018, GoPetFriendly found 99.2 percent of families bring their dog along on a road trip at least once a year. Many dogs enjoy riding along on a road trip, but a long trip can be stressful for you and your dog if you aren’t prepared. Planning ahead can make a significant difference for you and your dog.

If you’re planning on traveling with your dog, you’ll need to take some steps to prepared for your dog’s needs along the way. Riding in a vehicle with a dog, especially long trips, requires some forethought. You can’t assume you will be able to find everything you need while on your trip.

Here are 13 tips to ensure you and your dog have a safe and enjoyable road trip.

Before You Leave on Your Road Trip

Schedule a vet check-up

The health of your dog is important while traveling, especially when you’re in a new environment. New surroundings can be both exciting and intimidating for your pup, so it’s best to make sure your dog is in good health before you hit the open road.

Let your veterinarian know you’re planning a trip and you want to make sure your dog is healthy and everything is in order before you embark. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date, stock up on any medications your dog takes, and all preventative treatments (tick, fleas, heartworm, etc.) are current.

If your dog has a problem with motion sickness, mention this to your vet and find out what he or she would recommend.

Gather vaccination, medical records and a current picture

While you’re visiting your veterinarian, be sure you have updated medical and immunization records. Make a copy (keep the originals in a safe place at home). One option is to carry your dog’s medical records electronically in an app like Pawprint. This enables you to store your dog’s records safely and access them easily at any time.

You may need a Certificate of Health from your veterinarian, especially if you’re planning to cross state borders.

Recent pictures of your dog

No one wants to think about losing their dog while on vacation, but your dog is at risk of getting lost while you’re on your trip. Don’t leave home without some current pictures of your pup. Print out a few and have some on your phone in case you need to show local shelters or get flyers made.

Pack a dog first aid kit

Be sure you bring a dog first aid kit to treat minor injuries, remove ticks and foxtails, or clip a broken nail. Be sure to keep the ASPCA Pet Poison Hotline number (888-426-4435) in your first aid kit in case your pup ingests something he or she shouldn’t.

Pack other dog road trip essentials

Besides the first aid kit, you will want to pack other necessities for your dog. Here is a suggested list:

Dog food (pack in a sealed container such as a Gamma2 Vittles Vault Outback)
Dog treats
Water and food bowls (consider a collapsible water bowl and dog squeeze water bottle with cup)
Leash, reflective collar and ID tags
Lightweight dog bed
Dog jacket or rain gear
Dog chew toy (to prevent boredom or anxiety)
Your dog’s favorite toy
GPS dog tracker (to help find your dog if he or she becomes lost)
Medications (if your dog is on medication, don’t forget to pack it. This might include calming aids and supplements.)
Blankets, towels and old sheets (in case you need to cover furniture at your destination)
Lint roller (can be very helpful in cleaning furniture in places you stay)
Excrement bags and sealed container
White noise machine (to help mask strange noises in a new place)
Foam pet carpet cleaner (in case your dog has an accident)
Car seat belt harness (A car seat harness will keep your dog from getting thrown forward if you have to slam on your brakes.)
Dog-friendly travel guide book

Plan a dog-friendly route and maintain hydration

When you take your dog along with you on a trip, you have to plan for their needs, especially stopping for potty breaks and exercise. Check to make sure your route has plenty of safe places to pull over and room to let your dog stretch his or her legs. Most major rest stops have areas for dogs to go to the bathroom, stretch their legs and play.

Puppies generally need a bathroom break once a hour. An older dog might be able to wait up to four hours without stopping. If your dog starts to get agitated, starts panting or whining, he or she may need a break.

During your pit stops be sure to give your dog fresh water. It’s best to bring water from home as water from unknown sources can upset a dog’s stomach. If your dog is experiencing a tummy upset, try offering ice cubes to help keep him or her hydrated as ice cubes can be easier on your pet than large amounts of water.

Check the weather

Be sure to check the weather forecast along your drive and at your destination and then pack accordingly. You might encounter extreme weather on your trip, so be sure to be prepared with appropriate ways to stay warm or cool off.

Find dog-friendly lodging

Camping is an obvious overnight option, but many motel chains offer pet-friendly accommodations. PetsWelcome.com (look for the app on your smartphone) offers great resources for traveling with your pet, including pet-friendly hotels. Be sure to check in with potential facilities regarding pet fees and deposits.

During Your Road Trip

Never leave your dog alone in a parked car

There are safety concerns including high temperatures but also to prevent people from breaking in your car windows thinking your dog is trapped inside at any temperature. Read more: When Is it OK to Leave Your Dog in the Car?

Acclimate your dog to riding in the car

If your dog is only used to riding short distances, like to daycare, a local park and the vet, practice bringing your dog on long car rides, increasing the amount of time they’re in the car each time. Be sure to visit new places on your test drives, spend time playing and give rewards so your dog associates a fun time with riding in the car.

Address motion sickness and anxiety

Some dogs will experience motion sickness, discomfort or anxiety when on a road trip. Prepare by acclimating your dog to riding in the car, consult your vet and consider supplements like Composure or CBD oil. Consider bringing an anti-anxiety dog toy with you on the trip. Read more: How to Prevent and Treat Motion Sickness in Dogs

Provide stimulation

While you’re preoccupied on the road, use a stuffed toy to keep your dog stimulated and entertained. You can also bring Kong toys with frozen water and treats inside and safe dog chews. During breaks, play a rousing round of fetch or tug to add exercise to your dog’s day. Read more: 10 Fun Games to Play with Your Dog to Prevent Boredom and 10 Project Toys to Keep Your Dog Busy During the Holidays (or Anytime Your Dog is Bored)

Give your dog space

No matter what type of vehicle you are driving, you need to make a comfortable space for your dog. No one, not even your dog, wants to be stuffed in between suitcases and other items for a long trip. Your dog will be happier and more comfortable if he or she can stretch out, move around and change positions.

Take the time to plan ahead, consider your dog’s needs and comfort, and consult with your veterinarian and you are on your way to a wonderful road trip with your dog.

What tips can you offer to make traveling with your dog less stressful?