Summer is the best time to set out on the open road for exciting adventures with your friends, family, and canine companions. While we all want to have fun during a road trip, there are some essential road trip safety tips that you should absolutely consider to ensure both you and your pet’s safety, health, and well-being.
FIVE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE ON A ROAD TRIP
At My Hooves and Paws, we want nothing but the best for all of your pets. That’s why today, we’ll share five travel tips that you can follow to keep your pet safe, comfortable, and happy during your summer travels.
Secure Your Pet for Travel
Whenever you drive with your pet in the car, it’s a good idea to strap them in, but especially when you go on long road trips. Depending on your dog’s size, you should consider using a harness that straps into the seatbelts in the back seat. This can not only prevent them from jumping into the front seat unexpectedly, which is very distracting for the driver, but a safety belt can also protect them from flying forward should you suddenly have to slam on the breaks, or if you’re involved in an auto collision. What’s more, having them safely strapped in means they can look out the window without making you worry that they’ll fall or jump out.
Another method is to let them travel in a pet carrier. Travel kennels are ideal for smaller dogs or dogs that experience travel anxiety. It is essential to secure the pet carrier in place to stabilize it so your pet doesn’t slide around or get thrown around inside.
Pack Plenty of Water
Pets need to stay hydrated while traveling, so pack plenty of water for your pup to keep them happy and comfortable. The length of travel time can help determine how much water to pack, but you’ll also want to consider your pet’s size, drinking habits, and whether you have more than one travel buddy. A gallon of water provides a good amount for a road trip and it packs easily. The important thing is to pack the water and the water bowl in place that you can easily access them. You can even save some packing space by purchasing a collapsible dog bowl that is perfect for travel. Check out these Ruffwear collapsible travel bowls for dogs for your next road trip adventure!
Be Prepared for Pit Stops
Part of the fun of taking a road trip is stopping art rest stops, gas stations, restaurants, and points of interest along the way to your destination. As such, it’s important to have everything your furry best friend could need during a pit stop. Most people keep their pet’s collar on, but if not, keep it handy so you can put it on when you stop. Additionally, store their leash, doggy bags, treats, water, food, and bowls in place that is easily accessible for all stops.
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
You never know when an emergency will strike, especially while on the road, so it’s always better to be prepared for the worst, just in case. Before heading out, create a pet emergency kit stocked with all the things your pet might need in the case of an emergency. You’ll want to pack the essentials, but be sure to also include extra food, water, a blanket or two, gauze, tweezers, bandages, dried ginger (for upset stomach), and a flashlight.
Pack All the Pet Essentials
The last thing you want to do is arrive at your destination, only to find that you forgot half of your pup’s essential items. Start by making a list of the things you want to pack, checking them off as you pack them. Here are some of the essentials you may want to pack for your pet:
- Plenty of food and water
- Treats and chews
- Toys and comfort items
- Medications
- Rabies tags and identification tags
- An extra leash and collar
- An extra bowl
- Doggy bags
- Shampoo (just in case)
- Insect spray
- Supplements
- Training supplies (if necessary)
- Vet records (in the case of an emergency)
- Dog bed
These may not apply to all pets, but it can help so you don’t forget a thing. Find an appropriately sized plastic storage container or travel bag to keep all their items in one easy-to-find place.
FIND ALL THE DOG SUPPLIES YOU NEED
Following these tips can help ensure that your pup has a comfortable ride while also ensuring both their safety and yours, too. Before you hit the road, stop by My Hooves and Paws to find all the dog supplies you need for your big trip this summer. We carry all the best brands that are always offered at the lowest prices. While you’re shopping, stock up on plenty of dog treats and dog food for your trip, along with harnesses, dog bowls, leashes, collars, and more! We even have a huge selection of outdoor dog gear from top brands like Ruffwear, Doggles, and more. These items come in especially handy for all of your outdoorsy folks with adventurous dogs. Shop today and save! And happy trails to you and your pup!