Whether you're thinking of a road trip spanning several hours or several days, we're with you in wanting your dog by your side!
What better way to bond with your dog than hitting the open road together?
Thankfully, as more and more dog parents like us embrace a "don't leave home without them" lifestyle, dog-friendly travel has become easier if you know how to plan.
Planning a cross-country road trip with a dog presents unique challenges and unforgettable rewards. From finding dog-friendly accommodations to ensuring your pup's safety and comfort, it can feel like a lot to think about. But the joy of sharing new experiences and creating lifetime memories with your dog makes it all worthwhile.
Let's jump into how you can make it happen smoothly and happily for both you and your dog!
1) Selecting dog-friendly destinations
Choosing the right destinations is crucial when planning a road trip with your dog. Look for places known for their pet-friendly policies and amenities. A national park, beach, or city with a reputation for being dog-friendly is your best choice. Once you have in mind generally where you want to go, you can find several websites to help you narrow down the exact route and best towns along the way for the most options.
Consider your dog's temperament and energy levels when planning your itinerary. Active dogs may enjoy hiking trails and wide-open spaces, while older or less energetic dogs might prefer quieter, more relaxed settings. Make sure to research any specific rules or restrictions that may apply to dogs in your chosen destinations.
2) Understanding pet policies
Not all accommodations, parks, and restaurants welcome pets, so it's essential to understand their policies before you go. Many hotels and vacation rentals aren't just pet-friendly or tolerant but dog-welcoming. Be aware that these hotel room or Airbnb-type options often come with additional fees or restrictions. Call ahead to confirm their pet policies and make any necessary reservations. You don't want any surprises that you can avoid with good planning.
Similarly, check the pet policies for any parks or attractions you plan to visit. Some places may only allow dogs in certain areas or require them to be on a leash at all times. Knowing these details in advance will help you avoid last-minute issues and ensure a smooth trip.
3) Creating a dog-friendly itinerary
When planning your itinerary, include plenty of dog-friendly activities and attractions. Look for dog parks, dog-friendly hiking trails/beaches, and outdoor cafes where your dog can join you. Balance your schedule with enough downtime for rest and relaxation, as constant travel can be exhausting for your pup.
Include some flexibility in your plans to accommodate your dog's needs. Unexpected issues can arise, such as bad weather or a tired pup, so be prepared to adjust your itinerary as necessary.
Health and safety...
4) Vaccinations and health checks
Well before your road trip, ensure your dog is up-to-date with vaccinations and has had a recent health check. Carry a copy of your pup's medical records, including vaccination certificates, in case of emergencies. Discuss your travel plans with your veterinarian, who can offer additional advice and recommendations based on your dog's individual health and needs.
5) Packing essentials
Pack a travel kit with all the essentials your dog will need during the trip. You'll want to include these must-haves:
- Food and water bowls (Make them easily packable and useful for hikes, etc on the trip with collapsible bowls.)
- Enough dog food and treats for the entire trip, plus some extra
- Fresh water and a portable water bottle
- Standard durable leash (and an extra long one if your dog likes to explore or play ball securely and/or a reflective, waterproof leash for water and night adventures), and a sturdy, comfortable safety harness
- Poop bags - These are earth-friendly with a lavender scent.
- Your pup's cozy dog bed or favorite blanket for comfort
- Any medications your dog requires
- A first-aid kit designed for pets
Having these items on hand will help ensure your dog stays comfortable, safe, and healthy to enjoy every minute of the trip.
6) Emergency vet services
Identify emergency veterinary clinics along your route and at your destination before you leave. In case of any health issues or accidents, knowing where to find the nearest vet can be a lifesaver. You'll be bringing all your dog's medical records along (see above), so any treating vet will have all pertinent info on your pup.
Keeping it comfortable...
7) Keeping Your Dog Calm
Long car rides can be stressful for dogs, especially if they're not used to traveling. Keep your dog calm by creating a comfortable space in the car. Bring along your pup's favorite toys, or long-lasting chews, and a blanket to provide familiarity. Consider using an all-natural calming spray for dogs on the car blanket/bed and giving your pup calming treats to take the edge off naturally.
If your dog tends to get car sick (usually more likely with younger pups), do some trial runs in short distances to practice what works for your dog before anything as ambitious as driving cross-country. Also give your dog more short distance car experiences that are all about good things (the park and treats vs the vet if your dog is vet-nervous).
Cracking windows a bit for fresh air can make a big difference for your dog (but not enough for heads out of the window for safety sake). Try to do any feeding in only small amounts before car rides. Combining all these comfort and calming tactics helps most dogs ride easy.
8) Frequent Stops
Make frequent stops to allow your dog to stretch, exercise, and take potty breaks. Aim to stop every 2-3 hours, but be responsive to your dog's needs. Take advantage of rest areas and pet-friendly parks along the way to give your dog some time outside the car.
You never ever want to leave your dog unattended. If you're traveling alone with your dog, what about rest stops for you? Outdoor rest stops and restroom facilities are fine for taking your dog with you, of course, but what if they're not plenty of them on your route? Big box stores and large chain pet stores that are known for welcoming dogs are good options to be aware of for restrooms plus they're a chance to stretch everyone's legs in a clean indoor space.
And if your dog is well-behaved and the restroom is near the entrance in a food-court-type stop on your route, you can often slip in and out quietly with your dog without complaint (but good to have other options in your planning).
9) Utilizing Pet Travel Gear
Invest in dog travel gear to make it simple and convenient to keep your dog safe. A durable, safety dog seat belt can keep your dog secure while driving. Portable water bowls, collapsible food containers, and travel-friendly toys and chews can also enhance your travel experience.
Documenting your journey together...
10) Capturing the moments
Traveling cross-country (or anywhere, really) with your dog is a priceless adventure worth documenting. Take plenty of photos and videos! You can sort through them after. They'll be fun moments you can share along the way and cherished memories you'll be glad you have for years to come.
If you've been thinking about a road trip with your dog, take the plunge! With the right planning and prep, you'll create unforgettable memories and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Remember, it's not just about the destination, but all the shared moments along the way.
Here's to adventures with your dog by your side!
At Mighty Paw, we believe in helping all dogs live their healthiest, happiest, and fullest lives by our sides. That's why we're dedicated to finding ways to help you bring more joy to your dog and your adventures together. And to help you know what you need to live your summer plans successfully.
We're committed to providing high-quality products that are safe, durable, and practical for everything you need to keep your pup healthy, happy, and enjoying every moment with you.
