Embarking on a road trip with your furry friend can be an exhilarating adventure, but it requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for you and your dog. Whether you’re hitting the open road for a weekend getaway or a cross-country trip, here are essential tips and tricks to help make a road trip with your pet unforgettable and just plain paw–some.
Benefits of Traveling With Your Dog
There are many benefits to taking a road trip. Getting a well-deserved change of scenery, discovering something new, and creating long-lasting memories with loved ones—a road trip does wonders. But the benefits of road-tripping with your dog, whether a puppy or an adult, takes the experience to another level.
Bringing your dog on a road trip boosts your human-canine bond, letting you and your pet go on an adventure to an untouched corner of the globe at your own pace. Plus, you’ll feel more secure knowing your dog is with you and not alone in the house feeling anxious while waiting for you to get home.
Prepare for the Road Trip With Your Dog
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Before you hit the road, preparation is vital. Start by ensuring your dog’s vaccinations are updated, and carry their vaccination and medical records. A visit to the veterinarian before the trip can confirm that your pup is fit for travel and address any health concerns. Pack a pet first aid kit, including bandages, tweezers, and any medications your dog might need.
Invest in a quality travel crate or harness so your dog doesn’t move excessively during car rides. A travel crate provides a safe and familiar space for your dog, while a harness can be used with a seatbelt for added security. Additionally, bring a dog bed or blanket to help them feel more at home in the car.
Search for Dog-Friendly Destinations
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When planning your route, look for dog-friendly stops and attractions. Here are some activities and destinations you and your dog will enjoy.
- Dog parks. Destinations like dog-friendly parks are a great way to break up the drive and provide some exercise for your dog while letting you enjoy scenic views.
- Dog-friendly hiking trails. If you and your pup are the outgoing types, have a go at dog-friendly hiking trails and explore nature at your own pace.
- Pooch-loving beaches. Some beaches allow dogs to run off-leash to play in the water. You can even teach them how to surf!
- Pet-friendly restaurants and cafes. When you’re on the hunt for places to eat, look for establishments that love animals as much as you do.
- Animal-friendly outdoor markets. Outdoor markets like farmers’ markets are a fun way for you and your canine companion to get some fresh air and check out local goods.
When it comes to accommodation, many hotels, motels, and Airbnb house rentals welcome pets, but it’s always a good idea to confirm their pet policy beforehand. It’s also best to ask if they charge extra to bring a pet, weight or breed restrictions, and if they have amenities for your canine friend.
Pack the Essentials for a Pet-Friendly Trip
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As pet parents, it’s your responsibility to bring the road trip essentials for your dog’s comfort and well-being. These include:
- Dog first-aid kit. Be prepared in case of a canine emergency. Assemble the essentials you’ll need in a pet first-aid kit, including tweezers, non-stick bandages, antibiotic spray, a pet thermometer, and pills.
- Food and water. Pack enough food for the trip and a portable water bowl.
- Leash and harness. Always keep a leash handy for bathroom breaks and walks.
- Poop bags and dog diapers: Be a responsible fur parent by cleaning up after them.
- Identification: Ensure your dog wears an ID tag with your contact information. A microchip can also be helpful in case they get lost.
- Important documents. Stash your pup’s medical and vaccination records in their first-aid kit for easy access.
- Travel crate. Get a travel crate to keep your pet safe and secure while on the road.
- Blanket and bed. Help your dog feel safe by getting them their blanket and bed to rest in whenever they’re tired or anxious.
- Grooming supplies. Be sure to pack grooming tools and equipment to keep your fur babies prim and proper.
- Dog toys. Make sure your dog stays entertained for the whole trip by bringing their favorite balls, chew toys, and rope toys.
Make Your Car Pup Ready
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Now that you’ve prepared what to bring to your dog road trip, it’s time to dog-proof your car. Find the best place to secure the crate before attaching the straps. Depending on your vehicle size, it can be at the back of your car or in between the back and front seats for smaller vehicles. Use multiple straps if needed to properly secure the crate, and remember that your dog must still be able to stand up, turn around, and roam comfortably inside it.
With the dog bed, you may load it up within the crate, along with their toys and their favorite blanket. Take note that dog-proofing a vehicle may look different for everyone. Some dogs can just wear a harness without a crate, others may need more than just the basic equipment; it all boils down to what your fur baby needs to make them feel safe and secure during the ride.
Stick to a Routine
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To make a successful road trip with your dog, formulate a routine and stick with it. Think about how many stops you’re going to take in between destinations, who’s going to stay with the dog in the car (if traveling with someone) while you’re running food or gas errands, or where their location is when you’re checking into a hotel.
Create a system and involve everyone on the road trip. Plan various scenarios and come up with the appropriate solutions so you can prevent any unnecessary stress and make your trip more enjoyable for everyone, including your fur baby.
Find a Car Rental That Allows Pets
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Thinking about renting a car for your road trip? Consider first if they’re going to let your four-legged friend inside their vehicles. Luckily, you can find pet-friendly car rentals that fit the bill. Just make sure to cover all the terms, like cleaning fees, before you seal the deal.
Car Travel Tips For Road Trips With Your Pet
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Remember these tips to keep your dog comfortable and safe while on the road.
Keep Your Dog Safe
Never leave pets unattended in the car, especially in hot weather, as it can lead to heatstroke. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) , the leading international nonprofit organization committed to animal rights and welfare, has reported that 90 animals, including dogs, have died from being left in sweltering cars and other heat-related causes in 2024, while 306 have been rescued.
If you ever need to stop your vehicle, take your dog with you or ensure they are in a secure, well-ventilated area. Use a car shade to keep the right temperature and provide water while you’re out.
Make Your Dog Comfortable in the Car
Comfort is important when taking long car rides, especially for our furry friends. To keep your dog cozy, pack their favorite bed or blanket and ensure they have enough space to stretch out. Have their favorite toys or chew items readily available to keep them entertained.
Regular rest stops are important—plan to stop every 2-3 hours to allow your dog to stretch their legs and relieve themselves. During these stops, visit local dog parks when possible so your pup can enjoy some off-leash time.
Manage Your Pup’s Car Sickness
Does your beloved pup experience dog car sickness? Help them overcome their motion sickness by getting them used to car travel. Start with short trips. Avoid feeding your dog a large meal before going out, and keep their water intake regular but moderate. If car sickness persists, consult your veterinarian.
Train and Reward Good Behavior
Aside from crate training, teaching them how to sit, stay, and be quiet are handy commands when traveling to a new place. Using positive reinforcement (or should we say, paw-sitive reinforcement) can also help your dog adjust to long drives and behave well. Give treats to your dog when they obey, while letting them know that they’re such a good boy or girl (look at that tail wag!)
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Have a plan in case of emergencies. Know the location of veterinarians along your route and keep their contact information handy. Familiarize yourself with the nearest rest stops and any potential hazards that could arise.
Easy & Hassle-Free Dog-Friendly Road Trip with IDA
Planning a road trip but don’t want to think about leaving your dog behind? Gone are the days when you need to leave your pup to a dog sitter when cruising down the roads of your dream country. Traveling with pets abroad is made easier with an international driver’s license —just leave the heavy lifting of preparing your international travel to IDA, while you think about how to make your road trip with your buddy a memorable one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I stop on a road trip with a dog?
It’s recommended to stop every 2-4 hours of driving for about 15-30 minutes to let everyone stretch and go to the bathroom.
How long should I drive?
It depends on your dog if they’re not used to long car rides, but always plan for regular stops if driving for more than five hours straight.
What to give dogs that have motion sickness?
Ginger is good in treating nausea for dogs so give them a small amount before 30 minutes of traveling. For medicine, you can check out some anti-vomiting medications. Every dog is different, so be sure to visit a vet before the road trip to know if their motion sickness is caused by physical or psychological reasons.
Can I use a dog seatbelt or a car dog seat instead of a crate?
A crate provides the most protection out of all these options. A dog seatbelt is a good alternative if using a crate is out of the question.
