Are you planning on bringing your dog on a road trip with you soon? A road trip with your pup can be an extremely fun and memorable experience but there are some things you should know to make your trip the best it can be.

First, you’ll want to make sure you have all the necessary supplies for your trip before you set off. This includes the essentials like a leash, water and food. Other things you should take with you are bowls for food and water, blankets for comfort and warmth, and a couple old towels or washcloths to wipe your dog’s paws off before he or she gets back into the car.

If this will be your dog’s first major road trip, it is a good idea to take your dog on a series of car rides, lengthening the duration of the ride each time. This will allow your dog to become more familiar with riding in a car and your specific car rules. These short rides also help you figure out how car rides effect your dog. If he or she gets motion sickness, it is best to feed your pup little to nothing before you set off to avoid any unsightly accidents in your back seat. The Safe Journey Flower Essence from Arenus is also a great option to help curb motion sickness and fear of traveling in your pets.

Next, as much fun as it is to see your dog having a blast with its head out the window, leaving your dog unrestrained while in driving can be dangerous for both you and it. Leaving your dog in a well-ventilated crate secured to the car or seats can be provide both comfort and safety in the event of a crash. If you absolutely cannot stand to see your furry friend inside a crate, a harness that can be attached to the seat belts in your car is the second best option. A harness is not as safe as a crate but allows your dog a little more freedom while driving. Your dog should also spend most, if not all, of the travel time confined to the back seats where it is most protected.

Once on the road, the best practice to avoid your pet doing its business inside the car

is to take rest stops frequently. Not only do frequent stops allow your dog to relieve themselves, but they also help to burn off some energy before getting back into the car. This keeps your dog from bouncing off the walls while you are trying to concentrate on the road.

In the end, a road trip with your dog should be fun for both of you. Your dog gets a little variety thrown into its routine and you get an energetic fur ball as company. As long as the right precautions are taken, you will end your road trip with memories to cherish for the rest of your life.

More Resources:

https://www.lovethatpet.com/dogs/travel/cars/

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/travel-safety-tips

http://www.peta.org/living/companion-animals/tips-traveling-dogs/