6 Helpful Tips When Traveling with a Dog

Traveling with your dog can be exciting and fun, but it can also be stressful. Learning how to travel safely and effectively with your dog in tow can make a big difference in the success of your trip together.

In the article below, you’ll find some quick tips to help you better understand your dog’s needs when traveling with each other. Using this information, you can prepare for the next trip you take with your furry friend and make sure both of you will be safe, comfortable, and happy throughout your travels.

Always Stay Leashed

First and foremost, keep your dog leashed at all times when you’re not in your hotel room or other lodging. Any time you go out with your dog, make sure he is on his leash and that you have a firm grip on him.

Dogs may panic when they are in an unfamiliar environment, and this may cause them to try to run away. By keeping your dog leashed and holding onto the leash tightly, you can keep your pet safter during your travel experience together.

Use a Carrier or Seatbelt Tether

When in the car, make sure your dog is either in a carrier or attached to a back seatbelt using a tether. Carriers are best for dogs who are small enough to fit in them, as they can provide much more protection in the event of a collision. Seatbelt tethers, which work as seatbelt extensions to be used along with a dog harness, are ideal for larger dogs.

Always keep your dog in the back seat of your vehicle. Never let your dog ride in the front, as this can be risky in the event of an accident. Additionally, keeping your dog in the front seat may be a distraction to you while you’re driving.

Research Restrictions ahead of Time

Depending on where you’re going and the type of travel you’ll be doing, there may be some restrictions that apply. Take time to look these up before you go, and fill out any paperwork you may need to provide for your pet as well.

If you’re traveling across international borders, there are a lot of restrictions to keep in mind when taking your dog along. Flying by air also involves many more restrictions than taking a car to your destination.

Get Up to Date on Vaccinations

Most destinations will require you to provide proof that your dog is up to date on his vaccinations. Take care of this requirement well in advance so you don’t have to worry about fitting in a trip to the vet right before you go on your vacation.

Talk to your vet about the required and recommended vaccinations for dogs in your area as well as in your destination location. For example, if you’re going to be hiking in the woods, the vet may recommend a Lyme disease vaccine that your dog might not normally get.

Plan Potty Breaks

You and your dog both need to take plenty of potty breaks and stretch your legs when traveling. If you’re traveling by air, you’ll be a little bit more limited when it comes to these kinds of breaks; traveling by car allows you to choose when to stop and rest.

Either way, give your dog as many chances as possible to go potty while you’re traveling. Some dogs may not be comfortable going just anywhere, so you might have to try several rest stops before you find the right place for your pet. Keep up with regular potty breaks at your destination, too.

Bring Comforts from Home

Finally, be sure to bring some of your dog’s favorite items from home to help him feel more comfortable on his journey. If he is crate trained, bring along his crate and crate pad or mat to give him a safe space wherever you may end up together.

Bring some favorite toys and blankets, and always make sure you have plenty of your dog’s regular food on hand when traveling, too. The more comfortable and familiar the environment, the happier your dog will be, so plan accordingly and bring everything you might need to make this happen.

Conclusion

By preparing for your trip with your dog ahead of time, you can provide the safest possible experience for both of you. You’ll also be able to relax more yourself, knowing that you are doing everything possible for your pet while you travel.

If you have any more questions about preparing your specific dog for traveling, talk to your vet for recommendations. And make sure you reach out to your destination lodging before you go, too. This way, you can be sure to provide any documentation they may need before your arrival, so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute.