Pet-Friendly Travel and Adventure Tips
Posted - May 6, 2024
By Carol Bryant, Professional Pet Blogger
Pet-friendly travel has become a popular option in the past 20 years. Are you among over 50 percent of dog and cat owners planning to travel with their pets within the next year? Pet-friendly travel is a lot of fun, but it requires preparation. I’ve been traveling with Cocker Spaniels for over 30 years, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. We always travel via car and have been to almost all 50 states with our dogs. I’ve learned a great deal and many do’s and don’ts when it comes to being a road warrior dog mama. Embracing pet-friendliness not only boosts revenue for businesses and encourages repeat visits from pet parents, but it also fosters community and goodwill, recognizing pets as integral members of the family. Here are my top 10 tips for successful pet-friendly travel and adventures.
Make a Checklist of Items to Pack
Whether you’ve traveled extensively with your pet or are just starting, list items to pack for your dog or cat. For example, here’s what a typical list looks like for me. Feel free to swipe my list and print it for your use:
- Crate or pet seatbelt – I love the SleepyPod harness that converts to a seatbelt
- Water and food
- Bowls (plus bowls for the car, such as a collapsible pet bowl)
- Treats
- Medications
- Flea and tick preventative
- ZYMOX shampoo and conditioner
- Pet first aid kit – more about that shortly
- Extra collar, leash, and harness
- Comfy bed or sleeping blanket
- Sheets for the hotel room furniture
- Poop bags
- Toys
- Paw protection – such as Musher’s Secret or dog boots
- Veterinary records
- Current name tag or a PetHub ID tag
- Paper towels, bottle of Rocco and Roxie clean-up spray
Make Sure Your Dog or Cat is Road-Ready
I’ve helped hundreds, if not thousands, of pet parents with their nervous pups. Anyone who has ever dealt with canine or feline anxiety knows how upsetting and frustrating it can be. If your pet is too stressed by car travel, having a family member or trusted pet sitter stay with them at home is in their best interest.
Never Leave Your Pet Alone in Your Car
Even if it’s for a few minutes, have someone stay with your pet while you are outside the vehicle. Pet should never be left alone in a car for various reasons: sweltering heat, freezing cold, or even theft. The number of pets stolen from cars as they longingly and innocently wait for their pet parent(s) to return is high.
Pack a First Aid Kit
I recently wrote an article detailing what to put in your pet’s first aid bag. Check it from time to time to be sure there are no expired products. Refill anything empty, and keep it out of the heat or extremely cold conditions.
Pack Water from Home
Experts agree that taking water from home can help avoid upset tummies when traveling with your dog or cat. Our dog drinks filtered tap or bottled water, so we take a case of water with us on the road.
Take Timed Breaks
Like people, dogs need to relieve themselves. My dogs are used to peeing on everything from grass to gravel, rocks to cement. Teaching your pet to relieve themselves on different surfaces is a good idea. Stop every two to three hours and stretch your legs while your pet goes potty. Steer clear of any hidden pet toxins.
Find the Emergency Veterinarian
Prior to leaving for any trip, I recommend you locate the address and phone number of the veterinarian for your destination. This comes in handy when minutes count, and trust me – accidents can and do happen on road trips.
Don’t Let Pets Ride in a Truck Bed
Dogs riding in the rear of a pickup truck are at risk of severe injury or worse. They may encounter flying debris, try to jump out, strangle themselves, and get hurt in an accident. Inclement weather only worsens things, so don’t do it.
Prepare Pets from the Sun’s Deadly Rays
Dogs should wear pet-friendly sunscreen, just as their human counterparts do. We use car shades when traveling and have a portable pop-up sun umbrella for pit stops at rest areas, picnics, beaches, etc. The worst time for sun exposure is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Be Respectful at Your Destination
Follow a few simple basic tenets of good canine citizenship on arrival. Don’t leave your pet alone if they bark or howl. Pick poop up throughout the trip and dispose of it properly. Cover hotel or B&B furniture with old sheets from home for protection. You and your pets will be road warriors in no time. Have fun, stay safe, and send us a postcard!
