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Guide to the Ultimate Road Trip with your Dog

The great American road trip can get even greater when you add (wo)man’s best friend! Whether you’re traveling for days or just hours, here are some tips for a great road trip with your pup!

The great American road trip just got better! Your dog is coming along for the ride.

Plan Your Route

Getting lost can add hours onto your trip, not to mention stress and fatigue. Make sure to plan your route out before hitting the road. Be sure to map out plenty of rest stops for your pooch to exercise and use the bathroom, as well as the best way to get to your destination.

Pack The Essentials

You and your pooch want to be as prepared as possible before hitting the road. Got your snacks? Packed some poop bags? Check out our Dog Travel Checklist to make sure you’ve got everything covered!

Use a Car Seat

Who said seat belts are just for humans? Dogs require safety precautions as well. A car seat provides a safe and cozy place for them to hang. It will also contain your pup so there are no distractions while you’re behind the wheel.

Bring I.D.

Keep a copy of your pets vaccinations and microchip information in the glove compartment. Some states require them if you’re crossing borders, and they’re good to have in case of emergencies.

Make Bathroom Breaks Fun

While looking for rest stops, choose ones with grassy open areas so your pooch can stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors. Some time out of the car will do them good!

Stay Hydrated

Traveling can be hectic, with lots of running around and stress. Make sure you and your pup stay hydrated, with regular water breaks. Keep a travel water bowl in the car and a bottle of water so you’re always prepared with H2O on hand.

Check The Weather

Thunderstorms and lightning can stress a dog out, and bad weather will slow you down. Check the forecast while planning your route and try to avoid any major weather disasters.

Practice Makes Perfect

Is your dog a road trip virgin? Practice being in the car with shorter trips before embarking on a long one. Get them used to their car seat, and feeling comfortable in a moving vehicle.

NEVER Leave your Dog Unattended in a Car

A parked car will always end up hotter than the air around it. Even when temperatures are comfortable on the outside, they will be drastically different inside your vehicle. At 70 degrees on a sunny day, the temperature inside a car can reach 90 degrees after just 10 minutes! Never leave your dog unattended in a car, even for a short period of time. It is dangerous, as well as illegal in some states.

Keep All Paws Inside the Vehicle

Accidents happen. While some dogs dream of hitting the road with the wind flying through their fur, it’s not the best idea to make those dreams come true. Keep your pet safe, and make sure they stay inside the vehicle at all times – every part of them.

Book Pet Friendly Digs

After a long day on the road, you and your pooch will want to wind down and relax. Plan your accommodation before your trip, and be sure to book only pet friendly places. If you can’t find a hotel in the area, try Airbnb, and if you’re road tripping to NYC, make sure to check our list of pet friendly hotels!

Click here for more info on dog friendly road trips!


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The great American road trip just got better! Your dog is coming along for the ride.

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