Preparing Fido for a road trip long trips can be stressful for both humans and pets alike so this week I want to give out some helpful and fun tips that will help make road tripping with man’s best friend a fun, safe, and hopefully a mess-free experience. To help prepare your fur kid I believe it is best to start with small trips to help your them acclimate to riding in the car. Start with small rides to the local dog park or local pet-friendly hiking areas. Sometimes going for a nice long walk or playing with your dog can help siphon off some of that nervousness. Especially if you have a high energy breed and it will also prevent accidents in the car. In my personal experience, my dog loves car rides. We have a blast on trips he is the best road companion ever. My 9-year-old Dachshund, Wally loves his car seat and basking in the California sun as we go on long drives. The only downfall is the nose art on my rear passenger side window. If you have a pet that doesn’t adjust well to longer road trips it might be a good idea to consult with your family veterinarian on ways to make it easier to travel with your pet. Also, if you are crossing state lines with your pet this summer you may need to see a USDA Certified Veterinarian for proof that your pet is healthy and vaccinated against communicable diseases like Rabies, Canine Distemper, Parvo Virus, and Canine Bordetella also commonly known as Kennel Cough. If you take your pet anywhere in public, it is a good idea to talk to your family veterinarian about proper vaccine protocols for your pets. Another, and possibly the most important thing to remember is to never leave your pets unattended in a motor vehicle. Every year pets and children die from being left in vehicles unattended. Interior car temperatures can become life-threatening especially in summer. These high temperatures can cause hyperthermia which can lead to severe and irreversible organ and brain damage. With that being said, have fun and stay safe out there while road tripping with man’s best friend. See below for a helpful packing list for your pets.
- Road trip packing list for Fido
- Pets medical records including vaccine history and any travel paperwork required by the USDA if you are crossing state lines.
- Pets medication
- Pet toys
- Safety harness
- Old towels
- Leash
- Small cooler for ice and water
- Grooming tools
- Collar with pet ID tags
- Also, consider microchipping your pet because collars can be easily lost if a pet escapes
- Travel food and water dishes
- Food and water for your fur kid
- Pet first-aid kit
Thank you for reading our third installment and check out next week’s post about Back to School Safety. Until next time.
Laura @ Westside Transmission & Automotive, Inc.
P.S..: Yes! that is my pup in the picture all buckled in his car seat and ready to hit the road!