How to Travel With a Dog in a Car

There might be a time when traveling in a car with your dog is unavoidable. Or maybe you would just like Brutus along for the ride. In any case, you can still get your kicks on Route 66 with your canine companion in tow--but as with a child--it just takes some extra planning.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Water Bottle
• Dog Food
• Dog Treats
• Leash
• Collar with ID tags

1. Reserve your lodging in advance and make sure it’s dog friendly. Hotels, motels and resorts are becoming more and more animal friendly, but you don’t want to get stuck in a town that didn’t get the memo. Likewise, if it’s a relative’s house. You don’t want to find out at the last minute that Cousin Cleo is allergic to dogs and have to spend the night in the car.
2. Make sure the car is at a comfortable temperature and there is adequate airflow reaching the dog.
3. Bring a gallon size jug and have water in at all times to refill your dog's bowl, especially in warmer weather. Dogs pant to cool themselves when they are overheated. If your dog is panting, it’s a strong indication that he needs water.
4. Look for designated highway side rest stops. The rest stops have plenty of space to walk your dog and some even have specially designated dog areas.
5. Keep your dog’s collar with ID tags on at all times during the trip and put his leash on when you take him out of the car. Strange surroundings might overwhelm your dog and you don’t want him to make a sudden dash into traffic or run away.
6. Clean up after your dog, so man’s best friend will remain man’s best friend and continue to be welcome at rest areas.
7. Try to stop frequently, even if your dog normally urinates at longer intervals. Dogs can get excited in the car and have to go more often. They also get antsy. Stopping and letting them stretch makes for a better car ride for everyone.
8. Have dog treats in the car to provide nourishment since dogs tend to eat less food on road trips. It is also a way to reward them for being good travelers.

Tips & Warnings

• Take along a portable combination pet water bottle/drink bowl for use in the car to avoid spills and have the regular water bowl for the hotel room.
• There are a variety of dog harnesses and seatbelts available for auto travel. If you decide to use one, test a few different kinds to see which one works best for your dog.
• Never leave your dog unattended in a closed car during hot weather. Heat builds up quickly in an enclosed space, and can result in heat stroke and death within minutes.