If you’re planning to travel by car with your pet, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Whether you’re taking your dog for a ride in your new vehicle or driving across the country to see family, safety is a must.
For pet owners, taking your four-legged friend with you on road trips can be just as dangerous as leaving them behind. With some thoughtful planning and preparation, you and your pet can have an incident-free trip. These tips will help you make the journey safe and stress-free for both of you. Plus, bringing your pet on vacation can be great fun!
Test Out Leashes Before Trips
Whether your pet travels in an airline carrier or you decide to transport them in a car, it’s essential to make sure that you and your pet are both comfortable with their leash. Make sure to test out leashes at home! Not only will your pet acclimate faster to its leash when they are comfortable, but doing so also helps ensure that they won’t panic and be dangerous during flight or travel.
Create a Supply Kit
When taking your pets with you on a road trip, create a supply kit filled with everything you might need in case of an accident. In addition to basic medical supplies and grooming tools, be sure to include some fun items like toys and treats that can help keep your furry friend distracted while they’re waiting.
Keep Pets Comfortable on Long Trips
Pets travel best when kept comfortable. Your pet may become restless, bored, or distracted by strange sights and smells on long trips. The first thing to do is give them time to get used to their carrier before attempting a journey. It can be done several weeks in advance. Take it out and set it up in different areas around your home at various times during both day and night. Set up sleeping quarters in one room and play areas in another—and continue doing so until your pet is completely accustomed to seeing it regularly.
Take Breaks on Longer Journeys
If you plan to travel with your pet for an extended period, make sure you stop and give them breaks often. They won’t be used to traveling long distances, so it’s better to break up your journey into multiple drives rather than take one long trip with several hours in between. Not only does taking breaks help keep your pet hydrated, but it also gives them more opportunities to relieve themselves in case they aren’t as familiar with their surroundings.
Have a Cleanup Kit Ready
Don’t wait until you’re in an emergency before thinking about your pet cleanup kit. Having all of your pet cleanup essentials together and within easy reach ensures that you can handle it with ease no matter what happens. You won’t need to use any of these items with any luck during your road trip! However, if something does happen, you should be prepared with supplies to clean up after your furry friends.
Ensure Your Car Is in the Best State
Before you pack up your pet and get behind that wheel, ensure your car is in tip-top shape. Replace worn tires with new ones, so you’re protected against blowouts. Make sure your wipers are in good condition. If there’s some rust or dents, especially in your glass, spend some time getting it fixed to protect against other damage in case of an accident. Auto glass repair services are a must with incidents such as dents. Don’t let a small dent go unnoticed until something catastrophic happens. Inspect all fluid levels—antifreeze, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid—and top them off if necessary. Any oil leaks or issues should be addressed before leaving town as well.
Teach Pets New Routines and Behavior When They Travel
As creatures of habit, pets can often be reluctant to accept new surroundings or routines. It is essential to start introducing your pet to their traveling carrier or even car seat and giving them plenty of opportunities to get used to it ahead of time. Offer your pet treats and playtime in it, so he gets accustomed to associating that item with pleasant things. That way, when you go out of town, it won’t come as such a shock.
Having your pet with you in your car when you go on a trip can be great. Not only do pets give you someone to talk to, but they’re also likely to be entertaining during times when silence may otherwise creep into your vehicle. However, taking your pet with you on long road trips can present risks to both of you if not planned appropriately. By following these tips, you can help ensure that you and your pets remain safe while en route.
