Dogs are pack animals, and since you are their pack leader, nothing makes a dog happier than getting to go where you go. For those of you with dog friends, we have some great tips to keep your furry companion safe and comfortable this summer whenever they jump into your car to go for a ride.
Just like you would buckle your human child in their car seat, please do the same thing for your fur baby. Keep your pet safe and secure by properly restraining them to prevent them injuring themselves, you or other drivers. There is a large variety of seat belts, restrainers, barriers and car seats on the market designed specifically for the size and weight of your dog. For a long trip you might want to also invest in special seat covers and floor liners. If you are planning a big road trip, it’s a good idea to slowly get your dog use to your restraint of choice by going on short drives. Gradually go on longer and longer drives until it becomes routine before heading out on vacation.
Please think twice before you allow your pet to ride with their head outside the window. Your dog may enjoy their “hi-definition all-you-can-smell smorgasbord” but it is a dangerous habit. Flying objects could easily puncture and scratch their eyes and nose. Their ears could also get infected. But worst of all, your beloved pet could fall or jump out of your moving car or get their head stuck in the window opening.
TIPS to keep your car cool in the summer heat for you and your dog:
- Park in the shade whenever possible.
- No shade around? Purchase a sunshade to create your own shade
- Cover your steering wheel with a towel when you park
When you get into a hot car, open windows and the sunroof to let out the hot air before turning on the air conditioning.
Never leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become a furnace in no time. If left in a hot car, your beloved pet could suffer irreversible organ damage, brain damage or die from heatstroke or suffocation. Some folks leave their vehicle running with the air conditioning on. But, if your car stalls, your fur baby would bake. Also, leaving a car running in a parking lot is an invitation for it to be stolen – possibly with your cherished pet inside.
Remember, dogs are wearing a fur coat 24/7 – Please review the temperature safety/risk chart below!
More Tips for taking your dog on a Road Trip
- It is a good idea to feed your pet with a light meal three to four hours before you hit the road, and if your prince or princess has a delicate stomach, you might want to bring your own water and keep it cold. Most dogs won’t drink hot water no matter how thirsty they are.
- Make frequent stops (about every 2-3 hours) to allow your pet to ‘do their business’ and get some exercise.
- What to pack in your pet’s travel bag: toys, food, plenty of treats, bowls, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and a pet first-aid kit. Providing a familiar blanket and/or safe toy can help make your pet more comfortable during the trip.
- It’s a great idea to get your pet micro-chipped for easy identification, and don’t for get to register it. Then add a tag to their collar with your home address, cell phone, and any other relevant contact information. Bring medical records, medications and identification, including pictures of you with your pets.
- If you are traveling to the northern California, the Oregon coast, the northeast, mid-Atlantic, or north-central states in April through September, make sure you check your pets for ticks after they have been outdoors. Infected ticks can fall off your pet and attach to you.
- If staying with friends or family, be a good guest, and make sure your doggy is flea free. Nothing would put you in the doghouse faster than bringing fleas into your host’s house.
Driving is one of the best ways to travel with your dog. We hope these tips help you have an epic road trip with your canine best buddy and you make lasting memories together.