Photo: Helena Lopes
Embarking on a road trip with your dog can be a rewarding experience, strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend. Ensuring comfort and safety is paramount, and utilizing appropriate equipment, such as crash-test dog crates, is essential. This post will outline the key areas to focus on for a rewarding trip with your dog.
- #1. Prepare Your Dog for Travel:
First, you need to acclimate your dog to car journeys to reduce anxiety and ensure a positive experience. Introduce your dog to the car environment gradually if they are unfamiliar, starting with stationary sessions and rewarding them for calm behavior.
- #2. Ensure Safety During the Journey:
Implement safety measures to protect both your dog and passengers while driving. As tempting as it is to allow your dog more space while traveling, you should use dog crates or even harnesses to secure your dog while in the car. This will minimize the risk of an injury during a sudden stop, stop your dog from distracting you by trying to be close to you or moving around, and mostly provide you with peace of mind.
Photo: Lucas Andrade
- #3. Pack all Essentials for Your Dog (don't forget the treats!):
Equip your vehicle with the necessary items to cater to your dog’s needs throughout the trip. Bring familiar bedding, toys, yummy, treats, and sufficient food and water to maintain routine and comfort. This is where, if you usually use a crate at home, it can be helpful to bring it in the car, as it is a space they are comfy in and used to. This should help them stay calm and happy throughout the trip.
- #4. Research Dog-Friendly Routes and Stops:
Select routes that offer amenities accommodating dogs to enhance the travel experience. You can research online the best places to stop and what facilities are available for dogs. Additionally, consider scenic routes like the Borders Historic Route in Scotland, which is well known for its dog-friendly accommodations and attractions.
- #5. Consider Comfort and Dog’s Well-Being:
It is important to consider your dog’s health and well-being at all stages throughout the trip. One of the best ways to do this is to schedule stops every two to three hours for exercise and bathroom breaks, which can prevent restlessness. It is also helpful for you to get out and stretch your legs, so this is mutually beneficial and can break up a long drive.
Photo: Yunus TuÄŸ
- #6. Plan Accommodation Options:
Be sure to identify lodging that welcomes dogs and book in advance to ensure restful nights for both owner and pet. You can research hotels and rentals that accommodate dogs at places like BringFido.
- #7. Keep in Mind Legal and Safety Regulations:
Make sure that you familiarise yourself and comply with regional laws and guidelines in regard to driving with a dog onboard. In the UK, your dog must be suitably restrained, and they just do not travel in the passenger seat. Failure to comply could result in a £5,000 fine and potentially a court appearance.
Wrap Up...
With thoughtful preparation and consideration, road trips can become cherished experiences for both you and your dog, fostering a deeper bond and creating lasting memories. The above are the main areas to focus on when planning a safe road trip with your dog in tow and should ensure that it is a comfortable, safe, and happy experience for all.
