Traveling With A Dog: Tips For A Smooth Journey

Travelling with your dog can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet. Before embarking on any journey, it is crucial to consider your dog's health, temperament, and enjoyment of the trip. A visit to the veterinarian is recommended to ensure your dog is physically and mentally prepared for travel, with all necessary vaccinations up to date. Socialising your dog and acclimating them to travel conditions, such as using a carrier or crate, can also enhance their comfort and reduce stress.

When travelling by car, it is essential to restrain your dog for their safety and yours. Utilising a dog seatbelt, car seat, or safety harness can prevent distractions and keep your dog safe in the event of a crash. Taking practice trips, providing familiar items, and planning frequent potty and exercise breaks can also enhance your dog's comfort during car travel.

Air travel with dogs poses additional considerations. Brachycephalic breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, are particularly vulnerable to oxygen deprivation and heat stroke due to their short nasal passages. As such, flying with these breeds is generally not recommended. If air travel is necessary, consult your veterinarian, choose in-cabin over cargo travel, and research airline-specific regulations to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Train travel with dogs is possible on certain routes, but restrictions on weight and carrier size apply. Boat travel typically restricts pets to onboard kennels, but some cruise lines may allow pets in private cabins.

Overall, when travelling with your dog, their health, safety, and comfort should be top priorities. By planning ahead, socialising your dog to travel conditions, and considering their unique needs, you can ensure a positive experience for both you and your furry companion.

Preparing for the journey: health checks, vaccinations, microchips, and travel kits

Preparing for the journey is a crucial part of travelling with your dog. Here are some steps to ensure your dog is ready for the trip:

Health Checks and Vaccinations

Before embarking on any trip with your dog, it's important to consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog is healthy enough to travel and that all necessary vaccinations are up to date. This includes checking that your dog's rabies vaccination is current, as proof of this may be required when crossing state or international borders. Additionally, if your dog is taking any medications, ensure you have an adequate supply for the duration of your trip.

Microchips

It is recommended that your dog has a microchip as a permanent form of identification. Ensure that the microchip information is up to date with your current contact details, especially if you are travelling far from home.

Travel Kits

When travelling with your dog, it is essential to pack a comprehensive travel kit. This kit should include:

• Health and vaccination records, including proof of rabies vaccination.
• Food, treats, and medications. It is advisable to carry these items with you rather than in checked luggage.
• Favourite toys, bed, or blanket to provide familiarity and comfort during the trip.
• Waste bags, scoop, and other cleaning supplies for any accidents or messes.
• A pet first-aid kit for any minor injuries.
• A travel bowl for food and water.
• A collar with an ID tag that includes your home address and phone number. For longer trips, consider adding a temporary tag with the contact information of your destination.

Choosing the right travel crate or carrier

When choosing a travel crate or carrier for your dog, it's important to prioritise their safety and comfort. Here are some key considerations to help you select the right option:

Size

The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. This ensures they have sufficient space to move around and aren't cramped during the journey.

Strength and Durability

Look for a sturdy carrier with strong materials, handles, and grips. Avoid carriers with interior protrusions that could be a safety hazard. A well-built carrier will keep your dog secure and reduce the risk of injury.

Leak-Proof Bottom

Accidents can happen, especially on longer trips, so opt for a carrier with a leak-proof bottom. Cover the bottom with an absorbent material for added protection. This will make clean-up easier and keep your dog dry and comfortable.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial to your dog's health and well-being. Choose a carrier with ventilation on opposing sides to ensure a constant flow of fresh air. Look for exterior rims or knobs that prevent blocked airflow, ensuring your dog has access to fresh air at all times.

Labels and Identification

In the unfortunate event that your dog gets lost during travel, proper identification increases the chances of a safe recovery. Include labels on the carrier with your name, address, and phone number. Additionally, ensure your dog's collar has up-to-date identification tags and consider microchipping for permanent identification.

Comfort and Familiarity

To reduce your dog's stress during travel, make the carrier as comfortable and familiar as possible. Include their favourite toys, a comfortable bed or blanket, and perhaps an old t-shirt or piece of clothing with your scent on it. These familiar items can help soothe your dog and provide a sense of security.

Remember to gradually introduce your dog to the carrier before the trip. Place it in a visible location at home, leave the door open, and create positive associations by offering treats or feeding them inside. This helps your dog view the carrier as a safe and welcoming space.

By considering these factors, you can choose a travel crate or carrier that prioritises your dog's safety, comfort, and well-being, making your travels together more enjoyable and stress-free.

Keeping your dog restrained and safe in the car

The importance of restraint

It is crucial to keep your dog restrained in the car, both for their safety and yours. An unrestrained dog can be a dangerous projectile in the event of a sudden stop or collision, and they may also distract you while driving. According to the Automobile Association of America (AAA), the safest way for your dog to travel is by using a restraint system. This could be a carrier, crate, or harness.

Carriers and crates

A carrier or crate is an excellent way to keep your dog safe and secure in the car. Look for a carrier that is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Make sure it is well-ventilated and secure it safely in the back seat using a seatbelt or other anchor to prevent it from becoming a projectile in a crash. If your dog is prone to anxiety, you may want to cover the carrier with a blanket to reduce outside stimuli.

Harnesses and seatbelts

If you prefer to keep your dog in the main cabin of the car, you can use a harness or car seat that attaches to the vehicle's seatbelt system. These options allow you to keep an eye on your dog during the journey. However, it is important to note that the protective benefits of these systems have not been conclusively proven in the event of a crash.

Additional considerations

• Always keep your dog in the back seat, as airbags can be dangerous for them in the front.
• Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, as temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels.
• Keep your dog's head inside the car at all times. Sticking their head out the window may be enjoyable, but it poses a risk of eye injuries and respiratory problems.
• Take practice trips to get your dog accustomed to riding in the car. Start with short drives and gradually increase the duration.
• Keep your dog well-exercised before and during the trip to help them stay calm and relaxed.
• Pack all the essentials, including water, food, medications, waste bags, and some familiar toys or blankets.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your dog has a safe and comfortable journey.

Planning breaks for exercise, toilet stops, and hydration

Planning breaks for your dog is an essential part of travelling with your pet. Dogs, like small children, need frequent potty breaks and opportunities to stretch their legs and run around. If you're driving, look for dog-friendly rest stops along your route. If you're flying, find out where your dog can relieve themselves at your departure and arrival airports.

It's important to remember that dogs need access to water, even when they're not eating, and refusing water can lead to dehydration. Pack a travel bowl and let your dog drink during breaks. It's also a good idea to carry a supply of poop bags, so you can clean up after your dog.

If you're travelling by car, it's a good idea to give your dog plenty of exercise before your trip. This can help them manage any anxiety they may be feeling and may even result in a peaceful nap during the journey. Stop often along the route so they can get their energy out.

If you're taking a road trip with your dog, it's also important to remember that they shouldn't be left alone in a parked car. Even if the temperature outside feels mild, the temperature inside a car can heat up quickly and cause irreversible organ damage or even death.

Booking pet-friendly accommodation

When booking pet-friendly accommodation, it's important to do your research. Many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals are now dog-friendly, but some places still don't allow dogs, so it's crucial to check before booking.

Ask about any additional fees for bringing your dog along, and always respect other guests, staff, and the property. Keep your dog as quiet as possible, and don't leave them unattended.

Upon arrival, ask management about the best places to walk your dog, and always clean up after them. Remember that one bad experience with a dog guest may prompt management to refuse to allow any other dogs to stay, so be considerate and leave your room and the grounds in good condition.

Before letting your dog explore, make sure the space is safe for them. Keep electrical cords out of reach, and ensure that nothing harmful to your dog is left on the floor or under furniture.

Remember, it's your vacation too, and travelling can be stressful. Dogs can pick up on our stress, so try to remain calm. If you're nervous or uptight, your dog may show signs of stress and anxiety too. If you think your dog won't enjoy travelling, it might be best to leave them at home with a dog sitter.

Frequently asked questions