10 of the most helpful, dog travel tips!
1. Prep your dog for the long trip
-On the days leading up to your trip it's a great idea to start with short drives around town and gradually lengthen the time in the car. It will help to associate a beginning and end to what may seem like an endless ride.
2. Be sure to bring vaccination records or any other traveling documentation if traveling across state lines. Some states may require proof and identification.
3. Keep your dog safe in a well ventilated crate/carrier while traveling in the car. If you choose not to utilize a carrier, always keep your dog in a harness attached to a seat buckle.
4. Bring along a dog friendly travel kit. It is helpful to include:
-Bowl for food and water, extra leash, doggy waste bag, medication if any, and first aid. Bottled water is recommended because water from an unfamiliar source can lead to stomach upset.
- Be sure not to feed your dog while vehicle is moving. This can also lead to stomach upset.
5. Back to the basics with this one-- Never, ever leave your dog alone in vehicle on a hot day. It can easily lead to heatstroke at the rate the car becomes hot.
6. When you arrive, be sure to inspect your destinations surroundings for items such as pills, food or small items of clothing that may have been left behind by prior guests.
7. Then, feel free to let your dog(s) investigate. After a few minutes of sniffing, you may find he/she can then get comfortable, leaving you to unpack!
8. "Dogs that are comfortable in crates are at an advantage when traveling.... A familiar crate in a new setting gives the dog a home base." -Victoria Stilwell, www.Positively.com ---thus lowering anxiety and allowing the dog to feel that much more secure.
9. When returning home from vacation, allow 1-2 days to ease back into the old routine. While on vacation its easy for your dog to become used to your presence which can lead to a sense of anxiety when vacation in over and you are now back at work. Leaving for short periods of time and returning will allow your dog to get comfortable with the idea of leaving and knowing you will be back!
10. Have fun! Be sure to take lots of exciting pictures!
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