Road trips can be a joy with a dog, as long as safety comes first.
Secure your dog
Use a crash-tested harness attached to a seat belt, or a secured, well-ventilated crate. Never let a dog ride loose, and never transport a dog in the bed of a truck.
Never leave a dog in a parked car
Temperatures inside a car can climb dangerously within minutes, even on mild days with the windows cracked.
Plan your stops
Take a break every two to three hours for water, a bathroom stop and a short walk. Keep your dog on a leash.
Pack the essentials
- Water and a travel bowl
- Food and any medications
- Leash, spare collar and waste bags
- Vaccination records and your vet's contact
- A recent photo and microchip details
Prevent car sickness
Feed a light meal a few hours before travel and build up with short, fun trips. Ask your vet about help for severe motion sickness.