Taking Your Dog on a Road Trip

Taking Your Dog on a Road Trip

In this article, we are going to be focusing on dogs! Almost 90% of dog owners have brought their dogs on a road trip with them at some point.

Very few things make dogs more excited than saying “road trip" (except maybe the word "treat”). Visualize them getting excited by jumping all around you, barking, and wagging their tail. Next they are staring at the door and then staring at you. Their eyes are saying "Let's go right now!"What they don’t realize is that there is much to do before the road trip starts.

Questions to answer before you decide to go on a road trip with your dog

- It is very important to make sure that your dog is ready for a trip. 

- Are they healthy enough to travel long distances?

- Do they get motion sickness or get highly anxious when in a vehicle?

- Are their vaccination records up to date?

- Are they microchipped in case they get lost? 

Tip: If your dog gets anxious while in the vehicle, take short drives to fun places. Why? So they don’t just associate getting into the car with just going to the vet. Make sure these short trips are places like the beach, boating, or a dog park.

Note: If you bring them to the Starbucks drive-thru, ask for a pup cup. (These are free dog treats.)

If you’re planning a long road trip

Make sure that you find hotels that will accept pets. Most hotels will accommodate you, and they will most likely get you a room on a lower floor of the hotel. They do this because it is easier to take your dogs for a walk outside. You can use apps to find pet-friendly hotels and restaurants such as BringFido.

Make sure to research locations for rest stops so that you can easily pull off the road so that your dog can get a little exercise. Interstate highways are typically the best route to take, with frequent rest stops along the way. 

Locating dog parks would also be a good idea. Make sure that the dog park you take your dog to is a public one. There are private dog parks that will not let your dog in unless it is a part of an association or requires you to call ahead to use the park. Apps such as Sniffspot allow you to find dog parks near you. 

Don't forget your pup's packing list

- Enough dog food to get to your destination

- Water and a collapsible rubber bowl

- Your dog's medication or something to calm them down (calming aids) 

- Vehicle harness

- Leash and harness for walking

- Favorite chew toy or blanket

- Poop bags

Happy travels!

At NHSA, our goal is to help drivers of all ages become confident, safe, and informed. Whether you’re a teen earning your learner’s permit or an adult taking a defensive driving course, we’re here to help you stay safe and smart behind the wheel.