How to Travel Happily with a Dog
Travelling with a dog by car, plane, ship, or train is easy. The main goal is to keep your dog safe and comfortable. To do this, you need to be well-prepared. This means packing dog food and treats, knowing that accidents might happen, and being ready for almost anything.
If you bring your dog on your next trip, here are some travelling tips.
Get Your Dog Travel-Ready
Before a long trip, make sure your dog is comfortable on shorter trips. Some puppies get sick in the car or experience fear and anxiety. For the month or two prior, take your dog on short trips and get them accustomed to riding in the car. This will show them there is nothing to fear. Consider offering them treats and rewards in the vehicle to further the positive association with it.
Pack a Travel Kit for Your Dog
A travel kit for your dog will include an extra portion of food, water, medications, and – if travelling internationally – their health records, such as copies of their latest vaccinations. Ensure you have puppy poop bags and cleaning supplies packed with you in case of a bathroom accident. Pet-friendly First Aid Kits should also be included in your basic travel kit.
Food and Water
Pull out your water and food bowls to feed your dog during these rest stops. You stick to a feeding schedule and portion sizes like home. Regular feeding will keep your dog content and happy for travel. Lastly, pack your dog food securely to avoid spills or contamination.
Make Sure Your Dog Has ID
Before travelling, it's imperative to have your dog microchipped or with a collar with their ID tag and information on it. If they bolt from the car or end up in an unfamiliar area without you retrieving them, the ID they have on them will ensure that they can be returned to you when found.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations
Call for any place you will stay when travelling or where you want to take your dog. Make sure the accommodations are pet-friendly. The last thing you want is to interrupt your travel with an emergency of not knowing where you're going to sleep because the place you booked refuses to accept your dog with you.
Airlines Require Health Certificates
Many airlines require a dog to have a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within ten days of travel. While you're getting this, you can ensure their vaccinations are current. In addition, you can ensure they aren't suffering from any illnesses worsened by heat or stress. Even if you aren't travelling by plane, it won't hurt to have them quickly checked out by a vet.
Dogs Should Have a Seat Belt
The safest way for a dog to travel in a car is in a crate or using a seat belt. Protecting your dog would help, as a seat belt protects you in a sudden break or crash. A dog should be restrained and not free-roaming. If a dog is not secured, it also stands a better chance of becoming a distraction.
Appropriately-Sized Travel Carrier
A high-quality dog carrier for your pup should not have broken pieces, stuck mechanisms, or be undersized. A dog carrier or crate is precious when travelling. With many cheap carriers available, consider investing in something more rugged to withstand the rigours of travel. This will keep your dog as safe, comfortable, and cozy as possible.
Have Lots of Rest Stops
Rest stops on a long travel day are important for your dog to get exercise and eliminate. Plan for a stop every three to four hours. A short five-minute walk will stretch their legs and allow them to shake off some stress if they are prone to travel stress. It's also a time to pee or use the toilet and avoid car or hotel room accidents.
Never Feed Your Dog in a Moving Vehicle
If your dog eats in a moving vehicle, it is more likely to get car sickness or choke. If you have to abandon the wheel to save your dog's life, this can create an emergency and potentially a car accident. Always pull over for a rest stop to give your dog food and water. Try to keep your meals light.
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