Happy Tails: 5 Tips for Taking Your Dog on a Road Trip

There’s still plenty of summer of left and many families are gearing up for their annual road trips. Instead of getting a dog sitter or visiting the local kennel, check out these five tips for taking your pet with on your fun family vacation: 

1. Taking on Travel Anxiety – Much of the time that a dog spends in the car, they’re often headed to the vet or the groomer, typically two of a dog’s least favorite places. You can understand then, that your dog might be hesitant about joining you on an extended trip in the car. To combat this, let them explore the car in your driveway when it isn’t running. Then begin to invite them on shorter car rides, just around the block or so, to get them acclimated to the vehicle. Also, avoid mentioning the words vet or groomer (or any variation of the words for places they don’t enjoy) and instead use a positive tone of voice when talking about car rides to help ease any anxiety they might have about traveling. If they’re still hesitant about the trip, WINPRO Focus can help naturally calm your dog and improve behavior.
2. Proper Packing – Pack your pooch their own little suitcase! Include all of their favorite toys as well as the essential food, water, bowls, treats, and any medications. It might also help with that travel anxiety to bring along a favorite blanket or pillow; something that smells like home would be comforting to your dog. It’s a good idea to always carry your pet’s vaccination records when traveling, especially if you’re crossing state lines. Should an incident occur, having this paperwork on hand makes things much less complicated.
3. Choose Your Ride – While you might have some limited options here, ensure that whatever car you're driving has enough room to accommodate your dog. Whether they’ll be riding in a kennel or will have the freedom to move about the cabin, make sure that they have the space to sit, stand, and turn around as needed. Just as your temperature fluctuates in a car, be sure there is adequate airflow in the vehicle to your dog as well, especially if you opt for the kennel or carrier. Consider seat belting in their harness or leash as well to avoid them distracting the driver or getting too friendly with an open window.
4. Meal Prep for Your Pup – Dogs love their routine so try your best not to stray from it. If you’re leaving early in the morning (before your dog would usually eat breakfast), don’t feel the need to feed them before you go. Stop at a rest area or park around the time they would usually eat. This keeps them on track and allows you to schedule out your stops so you can stay on schedule. Never feed your dog in a moving vehicle as dogs can also be susceptible to motion sickness and opt for bottled water, if possible. Allowing your dog to drink from a source their body is unaccustomed to could result in tummy issues. (Consider taking up a WINPRO Immunity regimen to ward off such an instance).
5. Ward Off Boredom– Everyone can get bored in the car, including your dog! Make sure that before your trip and during rest stops and potty breaks that you take the time to give them an extra-long walk or play session. This will not only tire them out and make it more likely they will sleep through much of the travel time, but it will also ensure them that you’re going someplace good and they shouldn’t worry. The trip there and back is part of the vacation too after all.

Please remember to keep in mind that dogs should never be left alone in vehicles. Traveling with your pet might be a new experience for them so remember to have patience and reward them for good behavior. Doublecheck all accommodations to make sure they’re all pet-friendly and consider even finding a place specifically for your dog to enjoy. Apart from that, enjoy your trip and happy tails!