Dog Travel Fundamentals

So you’re thinking about venturing out on your next trip with Fido? Sounds like a fun idea, but unless you’re well prepared, you may end up wishing you had left him at home. But don’t get discouraged; traveling with pets is becoming as commonplace as traveling with children. In a sense, they really are our children. We feed them, clean up after them, groom them, praise them, and love them… why shouldn’t we take them along? Problem is, some folks think just letting the family dog jump in the back seat is all it takes. Never mind securing that loved one in a car seat or harness like we do Junior. Why not? Okay, I’ll ask it again… why not?

Hiring the services of a professional pet handler to care for your dog while you are away is often the best choice for your dog, but is also more costly then a kennel. Should you choose to go with a kennel then do some research first to find one that is clean and comfortable, and is run by people who truly care about the animals in the kennel. Some kennels will even allow you to bring extras like your dogs sleeping mat, a toy or two, and his or her own food. Whichever route you take, you will need to ensure your dog is current on all shots and immunizations as this is required for any kennel admission.

Sometimes you just can’t just find water anywhere when you need to stop. Do you have a car seat for the pet to see out (mainly for smaller pets) or a harness or seat belt? What about emergency contacts like vet phone numbers or a pet hospital near where you are traveling? In case you become separated, did you remember his ID tag? How else will anyone know to whom your four-legged child belongs? A travel ID tag is also becoming more popular that lists the contact information of where you’re planning to stay when you get to your destination or a cell phone number that could easily track you down in the event you get separated from your pet.

A car in the sun can reach temperatures of near 200 degrees causing heat stroke and even death to pets left in them. Always use a leash and remain with your pet at all times. Dogs are very curious and in new places may try to run off and explore. Never leave your dog unattended in his or her carrier. It better you carry all dog travel essentials with you. The theft or kidnapping of your dog is a very real possibility. If renting a car for a logn road trip, or traveling by train, remember that your dog must have adequate cooling to stay healthy and safe. Look for cars and cabins with air conditioning. Before leaving your house, be sure that your dog has clear and effective identification. Be sure that the identification provides a way to get a hold of you while you are still away from home.

That’s right, don’t forget that pets like to sleep comfortably, too, and that portable bed sure feels a little more like home. There’s another thing you should remember. And that’s all you have to do, just remember it. And that is… reassurance. Your pet knows you better than anyone else. Give him the reassurance that you’re there for him and that you’re going to have a good time together. He knows your voice. You’re the one he trusts. So give him confidence in this new traveling environment by taking dog car seats along with you. Provide him with the things he needs to make his trip as safe and enjoyable as yours, and I’m sure you will have many fun excursions together for years to come. Happy travels!