Summer is upon us once again (how is that possible?) Like many Gulf Coast residents, you may be looking forward to lazy, sunny beach days, adventurous day trips, and good times with friends and family. Given that our dogs are often our best friends, of course, we want to take them along. Taking your dog on a road trip is a fun way to spend your vacation, so let’s look at some recommendations to make these trips safe and fun.
Here are some basic tips that will minimize frustration and anxiety and increase the summer travel fun.
4 Road Trip Recommendations
- Think About Packing: If you want to take a summer road trip with your dog, there are several items that must be in your car. Most importantly, ensure you have plenty of water on hand. It is easy in the heat of summer for people and their pets to rapidly become dehydrated, so be sure your dog drinks water frequently during the day. Another recommendation is to bring lots of their favorite snacks and food. A car ride is not the time to instigate a possible upset stomach with new food. Bring their familiar toys, at least two leashes, and heat-appropriate clothing for both of you. If your dog may be walking on hot pavement or sand, booties are an essential addition to your road trip pack.
- Remember Health and Safety: Before any extended car trips, go to see the vet to ensure your dog is healthy. Carry a copy of their health records just in case you have to see a vet while on your trip. Remember to bring along your dog’s medications (including motion sickness pills). Consider microchipping your dog if you will be traveling through unfamiliar places where the dog may get lost. If you don’t want to microchip, have a special ID tag made, which includes all contact information for you, the person you are visiting, and the name of the dog.
- Create a Dog Oasis: A dog crate is the easiest and safest way for your dog to travel in a car, but you can also use a dog seat belt. Be sure to stop for a bathroom break periodically (every three hours or so), which will also give your dog the opportunity to run around and get rid of some energy. Long drives can inspire anxiety for a dog that is not used to being in a vehicle. If possible, treat your dog on a few short trips prior to any long excursions to get him comfortable with the movement of the car, and inform you if motion sickness will be an issue. Lastly, be proactive and book pet friendly accommodations ahead of your trip.
- Don’t Forget – It’s Hot! No matter where you go this time of year, the temperatures are likely going to be pretty high. Never leave your dog alone in the vehicle, even for a short period. A car with closed windows can reach fatal temperature levels rapidly. Always find opportunities to let your pet out of the car, or at least secure them and open the windows.
If your dog is anxious when in the car, is known to bark at every passing car, or is agitated around dogs and people at the hotel, your road trip is not likely to be enjoyable. Before taking your dog on a road trip this summer, address any negative behaviors with professional dog training. From puppies to mature dogs, Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training can help you to guarantee that your family road trips are memorable.
