Pets can be great company on a road trip or vacation, however before you hit the road, there are a few things to consider prior to your furry best friend assuming the role of co-pilot.

1.Visit your vet

Before your trip, make a pit stop at your vet to ensure your pet is up to date on their vaccines, as well as flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives.

Many pets can feel anxious or become sick on trips. If they aren’t accustomed to car rides, find themselves stuck in a carrier for an extended period, or experience unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells associated with traveling, this disruption to their routine can cause added stress.

Don’t cancel your travel plans – there are ways to help mitigate their anxiety and prepare your pets so it’s not so unsettling for them. Ask your vet about medication to help calm your pet while traveling if necessary.

2. Practice short trips first

Before you log all those miles, help your pet create a positive association with traveling.

Taking your pet on short excursions helps get them acclimated, builds their confidence, and prepares them for longer trips. Don’t forget to bring treats and their favorite toy or blanket to help put them at ease.

3. Take care of your pet’s needs before you leave

When possible, feed your pet about four hours before you leave for a long car ride. This allows them to digest their food and relieve themselves before you begin.

Another way to help them settle and rest during the ride is getting some extra exercise. A long walk or chasing a laser/feather wand can have huge benefits by wearing them out.

4. Pet-proof your car

Pets pose a hazard to you and themselves if they are moving around in the car while you drive. The safest way to travel with your pet is keeping them out of the front seat and using a booster seat, travel crate, or safety harness.

• Car seats are designed specifically for smaller dog breeds. It keeps them relegated to the backseat, but still offers them the chance to look out the window in comfort.
• Carriers and crates should be large enough for your dog or cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Ideally, you would position the carrier or crate as close to the car’s center as possible and attach it to the car’s seat belt or other restraint system (if positioned on the rear passenger seat). If located in the cargo area, it’s best to have the crate tied down or otherwise secured in place.
• Restraining your dog with a tether or dog seat belt keeps them in the backseat, but also gives your pup a bit of room to move, turn and lie down. If your dog is restless, this method may work best for you – it minimizes your distractions while still satisfies your pup’s mobility needs.

For additional tips on driving safely with your pet, read our resources on traveling with your dog and traveling with your cat.

5. Make sure your pet has proper ID

Should your pet dart off while you’re getting gas or at a rest stop, proper identification is the best way for reunification.

Ensure your pet has a collar with an ID tag that includes your up-to-date contact information. Having a microchip is a bonus.

6. Pack the essentials

Load up everything your pet needs before you leave, including:

• Food
• Water and bowl
• Toys
• A leash
• Bedding
• Any medication
• A pet first aid kit

It wouldn’t hurt to throw in some snacks (aka treats) too – just wait until you arrive at your destination before giving any to avoid an upset stomach on the road.

Plus, don’t forget waste bags and cleaning supplies – accidents do happen! – like old towels, pet-safe cleaners, paper towels, garbage bags, and disinfectant wipes. You’ll appreciate having supplies on hand for an easy cleanup.

7. Take necessary breaks

Just like us, our pets can get restless if they’re cooped up in the car for too long. If headed on a longer trip by car, stop every few hours to let your pet relieve themselves, drink water, and stretch their legs, and try to limit your travel day to about seven hours total.

Some rest stops across the country also offer dog parks and fenced-in options to help your pet work off some pent-up energy.

8. Never leave pets unattended

Unattended cars can get very hot very quickly – even when the windows are cracked. It takes just minutes for a vehicle’s internal temperature to rise to levels that can cause heatstroke or even death.

Conversely, in winter weather, your car can become dangerously cold.

9. Locate pet-friendly accommodations along your route

If your trip requires multiple travel days or something unexpected occurs, be prepared with pet-friendly lodging (and restaurant patios). Check out sites like Bring Fido or Pets Welcome to find overnight accommodations so you and your four-legged companion can get a restful night of sleep.

10. Identify emergency vets and resources near your vacation spot

In the event of an emergency, it’s important to know what resources are available in your area, and the closest emergency vet to prevent delay. Before you leave, make sure you have this information readily available.

It can also be helpful to bring a copy of your pet’s vet records, in case you need to provide them to veterinary staff in the area – or even local daycares or hotels.

Create long-lasting memories with your pet

No matter where your trip takes you, traveling with your furry best friend is good for the soul. Enjoy your adventures.

Together, you’ll provide one another companionship, perhaps sniff out some new spots, be encouraged to slow down and enjoy the journey, and make a lasting memory!