Traveling safely with your dog

By: Roger Coryell
Person carrying yellow labrador retriever puppy inside bag while walked on pathway in front of mountain
Photo by Spencer Gurley Films on Pexels.

When it comes to traveling with our dog, safety should always be a priority. Unfortunately, there are some dangers we may not even think of when planning our trip. From dealing with changes in temperature to the risk of car sickness and everything in between, here are some tips on keeping your dog safe while traveling.

One of the most important things to consider when traveling with your dog is ensuring they’re comfortable in their environment. From providing enough room for them to stretch out to ensuring that the temperature inside the car is appropriate, it’s critical that your dog feels secure and relaxed while you travel.

In addition to making sure your dog is comfortable while traveling, it’s also important to be aware of the potential dangers that can arise when you’re on the road. From carsickness due to motion sickness to the risk of exhaustion from trying to keep up with a car’s speed, it’s important to take all necessary precautions when traveling with your dog. If you know your dog is prone to carsickness, bring some snacks and water for them in case they get sick.

Kennel cough is another potential risk to consider when traveling with your dog. Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory illness that can be spread through contact with other dogs, particularly in enclosed areas such as dog parks. While it’s not usually serious and will usually clear up quickly, you can still take some steps to reduce the risk of your dog getting kennel cough. Make sure you keep up to date with their vaccinations and pay close attention to their behavior if you’re in an area with many other dogs.

It’s also important to plan ahead and make sure you have all the necessary supplies for your dogs. From a leash, dog bed, and water bowl to toys, treats, and even some extra dog food for their meals on the road – having everything you need will go a long way in keeping your dog safe and comfortable while you’re away from home.

Be aware of the environment around you when traveling with your dog. This includes keeping an eye out for any potential hazards, such as broken glass or sharp objects on the ground, that can cause injury to your dog. It’s also important to be aware of any local wildlife that may pose a threat, such as coyotes or snakes.

Make sure to keep your dog safe by making frequent stops at rest areas or dog parks to give them a chance to get out and move around. This will help combat boredom and ensure that they stay hydrated and don’t become too exhausted during the trip.

Most destinations welcome dogs, but there are some communities that have breed restrictions. Before you make your travel plans, check with the destination and research any dog-related laws that may be in place. This will help ensure a smooth and safe experience for you and your dog.

Traveling with your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Still, it’s important to keep safety in mind and take the necessary precautions to ensure your pup is safe and happy while you’re away from home. From ensuring that they stay comfortable in their environment to having all the necessary dog supplies on hand, keeping these tips in mind will help keep your dog safe and sound on your next road trip.