When I first got my Jack Russell, I knew one thing was certain. We will go on plenty of road trips. As an active outdoor enthusiast, I was looking for a dog that would accompany me. Now, I always knew the risks that some dogs don’t handle car rides and road trips easily. So, I worked on it.
I am sure many of you are imagining the wind in your hair, the open road ahead, and a furry friend by your side. I am sure you want to explore new places, share new experiences, and improve the bond between the two of you.
Yet, before you hit the road, I want to make sure you are ready for it. Let’s discuss some important steps that will ensure a safe trip, a comfortable trip, and a fun experience for everyone.
Why Should You Go on a Road Trip With Your Pooch?
Hitting the open road with your furry friend is an unforgettable adventure. I want you to have the knowledge and resources for a safe and fun trip.
During a road trip, you can travel with your canine companion and strengthen the human-pet connection. The best part of a road trip is that you do not have to worry about getting on a plane or researching an air carrier’s safety requirements.
You just get in your car, RV, or van, and take the road. You do not have to board your puppy or leave him behind with a sitter.
Going on a trip with your pet allows both of you to have fun and get the most out of it. Dogs love traveling and exploring as much as we do.
One of the biggest benefits of a road trip with dogs is flexibility. You can stop whenever you feel like it and whenever you find some dog-friendly spots to experience and explore.
Before You Go
Yes, hitting the road with your puppy is easy. Yet, there are still some things you need to address before you take the road. Preparation is everything. Here are some things to remember:
- Get your dog tag up to date. In case your dog wanders around, you want your most recent contact information to be up there
- Bring a copy of your dog’s vaccination record. If something happens, a vet has to know everything about your dog. You can at least get a copy of it on your phone
- Make sure the vehicle is pet-friendly. That means your dog has enough space to sit comfortably. Yet, at the same time, the dog is not in a position to distract you during driving
- Bring first-aid help. Some necessities include a portable water bowl, leash, and collar, enough food for the amount of time you will be away, and a dog bed if there is enough place. As for first aid help, you need scissors, gauze, antiseptic wipes, hydrogen peroxide, petroleum jelly, and tweezers
How To Keep Your Dog Safe and Happy During the Trip?
Now let’s get to another aspect of the road trip. That is when you get into the car and start traveling. Let’s talk about important aspects like breaks, entertainment, and safe travel practices.
Secure the Cargo
I am all for freedom and comfort. Your dog should be as comfortable as possible. But you have to secure your dog at the same time. We put on car belts when we drive, right? The same should apply to your puppy.
Use a crate or carrier secured with straps or bungee cords. If you have a larger dog, use a dog hammock with a secured harness.
Do Not Forget about Breaks
We all deserve a break during a long road trip. Schedule frequent stops for bathroom breaks, but more importantly, hydration. Dogs are at risk of overheating during car drives. Hydration is that much more important. You can use travel water bottles and water dispensers for easy access.
As for bathroom breaks, if you have to pee, your dog has to pee as well. Even if you are in a hurry to get to your destination, add a few extra minutes for bathroom breaks. Better safe than sorry!
Keep Your Dog Entertained
During the drive, I am sure you can entertain yourself. Play some music, talk with other people in the car or anything in between. Yet, your dog doesn’t listen to music. There are no podcasts for dogs, right?
You should try to make the experience as pleasant as possible for your furry friend. Now, this might sound messy, but a pre-stuffed frozen Kong is a great idea. If space allows it, your dog will love it.
What about Unexpected Bumps?
No matter how much you prepare, there will always be bumps in the road. The question is, how do you handle road trip mishaps? Well, you adjust and react.
Pay attention to motion sickness symptoms. I know friends have had trouble with their pets during car rides. You can never know when your dog will start showing signs of motion sickness. For example, I’ve gone on hundreds of trips with Milo. So far, he has never shown any signs of sickness. But I am always ready to react if that happens.
Bring some natural remedies or talk with your vet about approved medications.
Another challenge is your dog might get lost in the shuffle. Keep your dog’s tag up to date. Microchipping helps, but also, keeping identification tags updated. Have a plan in place in case your dog escapes during a rest stop.
Keep Your Dog’s Routine on the Road
Dogs are creatures of habit. They thrive on routine. When you are on the road, routine is what keeps them safe and comfortable. A slight change in routine might cause stress and anxiety in dogs that are not going out as much.
That is why you should stick to the feeding and exercise schedules. Even if that means making more breaks during the trip. Your dog should get enough rest. Do not rush things.
Should You Exercise Your Dog Before the Trip?
This is a question I know a lot of pet parents ask. I’ve seen firsthand the difference exercise makes in traveling with dogs.
For example, when we go on a one-day hiking trip, Milo is extremely calm when we go back home. But that is because he is exhausted. Now, I am not saying you should tire your dog to death. But a bit of exercise before going on a trip helps.
The more exercise your dog burns, the calmer he will be during the trip.
What To Do If Your Dog Is Nervous During Car Rides?
Some dogs handle car rides. Others do not. You can help your puppy with some techniques. Here are ideas that have worked.
- Create a positive association for drives. Milo knows getting into the car means we are going somewhere exciting. He loves getting into the car. Start by giving your pooch treats when you go on a car ride. And that will slowly bring a positive association
- Keep special treats in the car only for car rides. Your dog will look forward to the higher-value treats
- Desensitization! Start by getting your dog okay with being around the car, then move in the car with doors open, close the door, and gradually get your dog used to windshield wipers, honking, turn signals, and more. Once your dog is comfortable, go on a short drive and reward. Slowly increase duration
- Practice good behavior in the car. For example, if your dog is calm while in the car, reward it. Yes, it will take time, but patience is a virtue
- I know some people have had success with specific music that calms their dog. You can try changing the music or lowering it. Speak to your puppy to get him to calm down
Be Ready for the Dirt
There is no other way around it. Your car, RV, van, or any vehicle, will get dirty. Dogs are messy little creatures. But we love them. No matter that they shed, slobber, and get dirty.
You have to accept it as a fact. If you are worried about getting the car dirty, you can always get seat covers and a portable car vacuum.
Remember, you are doing this so that both you and your canine companion can enjoy exploring and discovering new things. The experience is worth the trouble!
