When it comes to a successful road trip with your favorite pup, it’s important to keep comfort and safety top of mind. This is especially true if you’re planning on a trip that will last more than an hour or two.

Below are some tips and strategies to keep everyone happy, especially Fido or Fifi.

1. Plan ahead thoughtfully

From researching accommodations to mapping out pet-friendly places for your dog to rest, eat or take a potty break, the success of your dog-friendly road trip depends upon thinking through your pet’s needs.

Animals, like humans, can get tired of being stuck in a car, so allow time on your journey for water, food and the opportunity to stretch everyone’s legs.

A harness and travel crate can help keep your pet safe along the way but do ensure all restraints are the correct size. Resist the urge, too, to make a sudden shift to a new harness too close to the travel date. This can frustrate both you and your dog.

Don’t forget to research rules and regulations about campsites and hotels. Not every place is dog friendly, and those that are may have strict rules about where pets can and cannot go. Learn, too, about where your dog is (and isn’t) permitted to use the bathroom.

In addition, don’t forget to brush up on rules about leashes. Some cities have strict leash laws, while some parks insist that dogs stay on their leashes at all times.

» Tip: Although it’s understandable that you want to spend time with your pet, remember that not every animal is comfortable with every arrangement. A large Labrador may relish a campsite near a river, while a toy poodle may prefer an air-conditioned hotel with the shades drawn — and vice versa. Just like traveling with friends and family members, it can be beneficial to think through plans to craft something everyone will enjoy. 

2. Think “safety” first

For quick trips, there may be a little more to do than ensuring that you’ve got enough water for the ride — especially during the summer.

When it comes to longer road trips — especially those involving many days or weeks of travel, you might want to think carefully through items that you might need to support your pet’s health. From ensuring your pet’s shots are current to ordering any necessary medication (e.g., heart worm, flea and tick medication or car-sickness pills), your vet is a great resource as you prepare.

Other safety considerations include:

• A crate, which can help keep your dog contained and comfortable on the road
• Up-to-date dog tags and microchip information
• How your pet reacts to other animals, such as those it might encounter in a hotel, campsite, home or park
• How your dog will behave if you must leave him alone in your hotel room or tent
• Whether your dog might need a coat, sweater, insect repellent, sunscreen or other protective items 

3. Pack carefully

There are many things that one can take along for a dog-friendly road trip, but the most important ones are the items that your dog will appreciate and use.

Sketch out a list of items in advance that your pet might want, including (but not limited to):

• Food
• Water
• Bowl(s)
• Crate
• Treats
• Poop bags
• Medicine
• First aid kit
• Toys (indoor and outdoor)
• A favorite bed or blanket

4. Consider a trial run

Budgets and schedules permitting, it can make good sense to have a brief trial run to see if a longer adventure is worth pursuing.

Even simply experimenting with how well your dog manages a car ride and a shift in daily routine can prove insightful, especially if your pup is young or you personally have never traveled with a pet before.

5. NEVER leave your dog alone in a car

A final critical thing to keep in mind? The need to protect your dog should you have to grab a bite to eat or go to the restroom. It is never safe to leave a dog alone in a car, even for a few minutes. Heat, poor ventilation and potential theft are all important considerations.

The takeaway

Wherever your road trip may take you, we wish you and your four-legged family member safe travels. To ensure you have the automobile coverage you need before your next outing, ask RBFCU Insurance Agency for a policy review, or request an online quote today.