Traveling with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. However, there are a few safety precautions that you’ll want to keep in mind before you head out on your next road trip together.
Leashes, ID Tags, & Collars are a Must
Whenever you’re traveling with pets, make sure they’re all dressed up in their identification tags. These tags should include your vet’s number in case your pet gets lost or becomes sick. It’s also a good idea to keep your pets leashed and collared any time they leave the car. They may be able to handle off-leash time at home, but in a new environment, it’s not always a good idea to let them have this freedom. If something grabs their attention, they’ll take off in a full sprint in unfamiliar territory and you’ll be frantically searching for them.Things to Keep in Mind with Car Rides
Heading out for a road trip adventure with your dog seems simple enough: you open the door, your pup jumps in the car, you roll the windows down, put some tunes on, and go on your way. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as this. Keep these few precautions in mind:- Roaming freely in the car is not safe. This one applies to both you and your pet. For your sake, a roaming pet is a huge distraction that could cause you to have an accident. And for your pet’s safety, it’s equivalent to not wearing a seatbelt. Pets (both dogs and cats) should be kept in crates in the car. These should be anchored down securely so they’re not sliding around the vehicle. And never leave your pet in the back of a pickup truck either!
- Keep the windows up. Your dog may appear happy and eager to stick his head out the car window, but it’s not exactly safe for him to do so. Imagine what happens when you stick your head out the window. It becomes very hard, if not impossible, to breathe, and your dog’s lungs are experiencing a similar feeling. The cold and excessive amount of air that’s forced into their lungs is enough to cause them harm.
- Take breaks. It’s hard for pets to tell us when they need something as we’re driving. That’s why it’s important to take regular exercise and pee breaks anytime you’re traveling with your pets. Be sure to give them fresh water at each stop and a treat if they’re being extra good.
Things to Consider at Your Destination
Once you determine the final destination of your road trip, consider the following when deciding on plans:- How close is the nearest vet (or emergency care)?
- Where will Fido stay when we are out exploring?
- Are my accommodations pet friendly?
- Are the restaurants pet friendly?