As pet owners, it’s not unthinkable for us to consider long trips with our pets loaded up in the back of the car. Actually, it’s usually unthinkable to consider a trip without them! That said, here are a few suggestions to make your trip more enjoyable, not just for you but for your pet, as well.

Getting Ready:
If your pet is used to long trips in the car with you, you’re already miles ahead in planning for that big trip. However, if your pet never or rarely travels with you, you might want to consider a few steps to get him ready.

First, decide whether the pet will be allowed to roam freely in the car or not. We recommend you look at putting him in a nice, comfortable dog crate or kennel.

Why?  Because confinement to a small secure space is safer (usually) for your pet. He won’t be jumping from seat to seat, and if there’s a sudden stop, he won’t be jolted off the seat and into sharp edges of the seat or dashboard ahead of him. Besides, most pets feel more secure in a small space, especially one you can cover with a towell or blanket occasionally for protection against the sun or heat.  If you decide to get a kennel or dog crates, look at some that may have soft sides and floors to make your pet more comfortable.

And by the way, have your pet use the kennel or crate frequently before the trip so he’s accustomed to using it. On the trip, try to avoid feeding the pet while the vehicle is moving. Make sure he has plenty of water easily available. We recommend you bring your own water stored in a bottle or other container so that it doesn’t cause him a tummy ache. And make sure he’s never left alone in the vehicle on a hot day, even with the windows cracked open. Many a pet owner has met tragedy in that scenario.

Put together a small travel bag with everything you’ll need, including feeding bowls, lease, plastic bags for waste pickup, grooming tools, and maybe a favorite toy that will help your pet be more comfortable and secure. Never let your pet poke his head out the window while the vehicle is moving. He could be injured by all kinds of flying debris or by stationary objects and signs that are next to the road.