Spring is in the air, and after a long snowy winter we are all ready to enjoy the outdoors. Our dogs are more than ready as well!
In order to make your car travel with dogs as safe as possible, we created a small list of what needs to be done before hitting the road.
Getting Ready
First, always have tags with info on your pooch. You can never know when he or she will decide to take a walk on their own.
Also, I know you love your car and you love it to be clean. So use a dog car seat cover on your bench or pilot seat where your doggie will spend time during the ride.
If you have a small breed dog, you may want to use a dog car seat, just like you would with a baby. There are many sizes and heights on the market. Choose the one that fits his size and allows him to view the scenery. This way, he’ll be much more relaxed and will more easily enjoy the ride.
Keeping Your Dog Safe in the Car
For larger breeds, you should restrain the dog – both for its safety and your own. Getting a car harness can help keep your pet in place. The zip-line gives the dog some freedom to move from one window to the other. When restrained, he’ll stay on the seat if you make a sudden stop and will not “fly” up to the front and hurt himself and/or you.
Depending on your dog’s nature, you may consider some dog car safety accessories. These can restrict the dog’s motion using a mesh barrier or guard the door with a door guard. For small breeds or older dogs with health issues or jumping difficulties, a folding pet ramp (available in different sizes) will solve the problem, and you will eliminate the risk to your back caused by carrying a large pooch.
Other Trip Advice
If it’s a long trip, stopping from time to time is a necessity. The dog needs to do his thing and drink or eat. Always keep poop pick-up bags in your car. Have a travel bowl for water and food. These bowls are collapsible, easy to store, and do not take much space. Also, consider keeping a treat bag for the road (or for regular daily walks and training purposes).
Check out some of our pet travel accessories that will make your life easier while on the road. You can even arrange all your items in a travel organizer created with pets in mind. Put in the dog’s favorite toy, bowls, leash, medicine, the treat bag, pick-up bags, etc. Some organizers come pre-equipped with bowls or bottle.
Keep it safe and you’ll have an enjoyable trip with a healthy, happy dog.
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