The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted travel globally, forcing people to spend much of their time at home. But because vaccines are here, borders are now opening, and many countries are accepting tourists. After spending much time cooped up at home due to the pandemic, you most likely have a stronger bond with your dog.
And now, as you consider hitting the road for the next road trip, you won’t want to leave your furry friend behind. Although traveling with pets has always been difficult, it is possible to plan for it.
To help you plan an awesome road trip with your dog, here is a list of six things you should do.
- Purchase a pet-friendly car seat
To make your pet more comfortable on your road trip, purchase an aftermarket dog car seat. Pet-specific car seats feature a headrest and better padding to ensure a better trip. They also come in different sizes to ensure that they fit the size of your pet. A pet-friendly car seat will help keep your pet in place and make the trip less stressful. Ensure that you anchor the pet seat into the car through a harness so it stays in place during the journey.
- Get a pet first aid kit
If your pet gets hurt, you will want to treat the wound immediately. Purchase a pet first aid kit designed for dogs. You may want to get one created for large pets or cats as they can pack more supplies than kits designed for smaller animals. The kit should include bandages, gauze pads, a stethoscope, and a thermometer. It should also include necessary medications to treat common injuries, including pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Prepare your pet
When planning for a road trip, you should always prepare your pet well before the actual trip. To ensure that your pet is well-rested before hitting the road, you should start your preparations about a week before your trip. Start by making sure to feed your pet. You can also begin to pack their dishes, food, and utensils to have everything they need when the time comes. It is also advisable to invest in a dog ID tag or a microchip that can quickly identify your dog if they get lost while on the trip.
- Before the journey, check your pet’s food
Before the journey, you should check your pet’s food and ensure it is fresh and well-tended. You can use a food scale to weigh the food to know how much you need to carry. It’s important that you be careful when selecting dog food because the wrong diet can cause stomach issues or other health problems.
- Get a dog crate
When on the road, you should ensure your dog has enough space to sleep. To ensure that your pet stays in this area, you can invest in a dog crate. A good dog crate will allow your pet to rest while overlooking the road. The box should have enough space for your dog to turn around and move around freely. In addition, you should consider getting a collapsible crate so that you can fold and store it when not in use.
Summing Up
When planning a road trip with your dog, there are many things to consider. Be it a short or long trip; you should always prepare your pet for the journey well in advance. With the right equipment and enough supplies, you can ensure that your pet is well-treated during the road trip.
Use the above tips to help ensure that you keep your pet safe on the road. With proper planning, you can make the journey much more manageable and comfortable for you and your pet.