You're going on vacation! So, why board you dog at a kennel when you can take him/her with you in the car? Valuable tips for traveling with your dog during the upcoming summer months are listed...
After hours of researching, telephone calls and fretting you’ve finally found the perfect vacation for you and your dog. But, if you plan to get to your destination by car, is your pooch ready to make the trip? Traveling with your dog can be a pleasant experience, but you may have some work to do before you can assure yourself of having a good time. Try some of the following ideas so both of you can have a great time together. Try several short, quick trips around town to acclimatize your dog to the car. This is a great way to let Fido know that the car is not always associated with that dreaded annual trip to the vet. Occasionally praising the dog with statements like “I’m so proud of you” or “good dog!” in an excited, animated tone will reinforce any acceptable behavior the dog makes as you take these short trips. They will also have a soothing effect on him. And, a doggie biscuit after the trip is over is a great reward. Be sure to give one to the dog, too. Plan for your trip. Call ahead to be sure that any hotel, recreation area, residence, etc. will accept your dog as a guest. Since ownership and rules change, do this even if you’ve experienced no problems with a specific establishment in the past. You don’t want any surprises when you arrive at your destination. Don’t force the dog to go in the car. A trusted friend, pet-sitting service or kennel may be a better alternative. Veterinarians, other pet owners and professional associations can provide you with referrals for shelters and kennels for pooches that may be reluctant to make the trip with you. Forcing your dog to go on a vacation with you could be a bad experience for you, the dog and anyone else you might meet along the way. Buy a harness for the dog specifically designed for car trips. This device attaches to your car’s seat belt and provides a measure of safety in the event of an accident. It also prevents the dog from interfering with your driving and restrains the dog when you open the car door. Go easy on food and drinks the day of the big trip. In case your dog suffers from car (motion) sickness, be sure to feed him about 4 to 6 hours before you start the drive. Refrain from giving the dog any food or drink as the car is moving. Around every two hours or so, stop and let the dog stretch his legs. Be sure your dog is leashed before opening the car door. A visit to a rest area every 4 hours (more frequently, depending on your dog’s individual needs) lets the dog answer the call of nature. This would also be a good time for a drink (for the dog, please!). Be sure to bring along plenty of paper towels in case the dog does get carsick. Never leave any dog in a car alone. Temperatures can soar to dangerous levels inside a car in as little as 10 minutes, even with the widows partially opened. Pets left alone in cars are frequently stolen. So, never leave your dog in the car unattended. Period. Clean up after your pup. No one wants to step in a present left behind by your dog. Be considerate of others and bag the poop! Always keep your dog on a leash. As you travel to areas with new scents and scenery, your dog could become disoriented and bolt. Another suggestion is to consider a crate for your dog. Although some owners may consider this confining, a dog views it as a comfort, a place they’re used to. And, if you’re staying in a motel or other facility that accepts dogs, confining the dog to crate can prevent the dog from running away when the door is opened unexpectedly. Bring enough of your dog’s regular food for the whole trip. This could save your dog an upset stomach from eating strange food. You might also want to bring water from home for the same reason. And, don’t forget to pack any medicine or other special supplies that your dog might need. Take along favorite toys and a supply of chewies. Dogs love their playthings. Bring along their favorite toys so that you and your dog can have some fun when you’re done driving for the day. A supply of chewies can save you the expense of paying for a table leg or other furniture that your pup might otherwise chew on if you’re not paying attention to your friend. As your dog’s guardian, it’s up to you to think of everything that he needs to be comfortable. Your dog can help by being a model canine-citizen, so brush up on some basic obedience commands (sit, stay, etc.) before departing on your trip. If he conducts himself properly other dogs may be considered welcome guests at the destination you’re visiting in the future. You can enjoy yourself by taking your dog along with you on vacation. Following the steps above can help you really enjoy the upcoming dog days of summer!
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