A Guide to Safe Travel with Your Furry Friend.
Imagine the excitement in your dog when he jumps into the car and the look that clearly says, “Hey Mum, I’m going with you.” Though travelling might feel like just a small part of our busy lives, for our pets it’s a whole experience they long for. Think about it: when you leave your furry friend at home for long hours, the way they greet you at the door when you return says everything. That joy in them and that happy welcome itself says how much they missed you and how badly they want to be with you. And including them when we travel doesn’t just satisfy us but also gives that happiness to that innocent soul who can’t open their mouth and ask for it.
Yes, we hear you. As much as the excitement, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Things like safety, comfort, and their motion sickness can make us worry. But with the right care and knowing the right methods, you can take your dogs wherever you want to go. Whether it's a short drive to the park or a long-distance journey across the country, proper preparation can make the trip enjoyable for both you and your dog.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you want to know to travel safely with your dog, from essential tips and necessary products to handle different modes of travel. So, stop worrying about travelling with your furry friends anymore and make them a part of your next road trip.
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Why Does Dog Travel Safety Matter?
Dogs are curious by nature, and that curiosity can lead them to risk sometimes, especially during a trip. It’s also worth remembering that animals, especially dogs, have a much higher hearing capacity compared to humans. Loud noises, which might seem normal to us, like horn sounds, traffic, and engines, can be an unbearable and threatening noise to them. Sometimes, these unbearable sounds can make them feel furious and restless.
Also, usually dogs are not species that like to stay in one place for longer hours; when shutters are closed and they feel like they are caged or packed inside a vehicle, there are chances for them to move around the vehicle, distracting the driver, which might lead to severe accidents. Beyond physical risks, there’s also an emotional side which we forget. Travelling means new sounds, lights, smells, and sights, and while some find it enjoyable, some dogs can feel stressed and irritated. This is why travel safety isn’t just about preventing accidents; it’s about keeping your dog calm and happy.
Travel Essentials for Your Dog
Travelling with a dog is not as easy as we think; there can be challenging situations, and all we must do is make sure to keep them calm. From handling dog motion sickness in the car to calming their anxiety when they hear or see strange noises and sights, there can be any unexpected situations along the way. Unlike us, dogs can’t express or tell us what’s bothering them, so as responsible dog parents, it’s our duty to make their travel as smooth and safe as possible. This is where the right dog accessories play a big role, helping us to keep them in control and to make the travel safer.
1. Dog Harness and Seat Belt
A dog harness helps you to keep your dog under control and walk them safely during any stops or outdoor breaks while you travel. Meanwhile, car belts and travel harnesses help you to keep your dogs safer in one place by reducing the risk of accidents and keeping them safe while travelling.
2. Car Seat Covers and Seat Beds
It is also important to keep your car clean and safe when you are travelling with your furry buddy. And no one wants to end a trip frustrated over a messy car full of fur and dirt, leaving you to think for a second whether to take your dog along with you on your next trip or not. That’s where car seat covers come in to keep your car clean, keep your pet comfortable, and make it easier for you to travel anywhere with your pet.
3. Poop Bags and Dispensers
No matter how far or near you travel, always be prepared for a loo break along your way. Having a good supply of leak-proof and eco-friendly poop bags ensures you can clean up quickly and responsibly. This not only helps to keep your journey stress-free but also keeps the environment clean no matter where you are.
4. Collapsible Bowls and Water Bottles
Keeping your dog hydrated is very important, especially if you are travelling long distances during the summer. Also, midway you might stop for a snack break and also feed your fur baby, so keeping a collapsible bowl and travel-friendly water bottles makes your job easier, and your dog can enjoy their treats and be hydrated when needed.
5. Travel Beds and Blankets
Having your dog’s favourite cosy travel bed or blanket can make a difference. It might make them still feel comfortable and warm. If you are planning for nights out or a long vacation, taking a travel bed for your dog will help them feel relaxed and take away their homesickness.
6. Dog Toys and Treats
Travelling can sometimes be boring for your pet, if it’s their first time or after a long time. So, having their favourite toy with them can keep them engaged and make them feel familiar. This will be a lifesaver if you are planning to take your dog for a long drive, rest stops, or relaxing in new spots. This not only keeps them engaged but will distract them from playing with your car seat, belts, or anything inside your car. And giving your dog a treat along the way can help calm their naughty behaviour when they get hungry, keeping them relaxed and entertained.
A Guide for New Pet Parents
If you are a new pet parent or planning your first trip with your dog, you are not alone. We hear you; it might be exciting and nerve-wracking when it’s the first time. Preparation before the trip can make your travel smooth and safe. Start by familiarising your dog with the vehicle. Make them get into your car in a playful manner and start practising by giving them instructions to get into the car.
Although your dog got into the car and was excited, a first-time traveller may feel strange when the engine starts, because it might trigger a warning in them that it’s not safe here, which can make them furious. This should be slowly trained by taking them for short drives around your neighbourhood or to the nearby parks, helping them become familiar with road drives and the sounds.
Gradually introduce them to dog travel accessories at home and make them feel comfortable. When choosing a dog accessory, always ensure that you pick the one that is comfortable and the right fit for your pet. This can make a huge difference when they start using it. Make them familiar with belts, harnesses, and other accessories so that the next time they travel with you, they feel comfortable and relaxed as much as you are.
If your pet witnesses any motion sickness during their rides, please check with your vet about any preventive measures or remedies before you take them for the next long drive.
Travel Tips You Can’t Miss
Safe travel isn't just limited to the travel accessories themselves; there are some important things you should check before you head out with your dog. Especially if you are planning long vacations, weekend stays, or long road trips, make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and they have their ID tags or are microchipped. This can protect your dog from any diseases and help you to return to your dog if they get lost during a trip.
Always stop for short breaks and take your dog for walks, bathroom breaks, and water breaks. Make sure your car is well ventilated and the temperature is comfortable for your dog. And if your dog is prone to motion sickness, try to feed them a light meal a few hours before the trip and have some treats near you so that you can feed them whenever they feel hungry.
Check for pet-friendly options if you are heading to any hotel, restaurant, or cafes, so that your dog will not be left alone in the car. This is another reason why you should have the right dog accessories with you, making it easier to take them to any location you want.
Last but not least, make sure you always check on your dog’s mood and give them necessary attention when needed. This will not only make your furry friend happy but also will help you relieve your stress and tiredness during a long drive.
Ending your trip with your fur baby.
Travelling with your dog no longer needs to be stressful and overwhelming. With the right preparation and a little care, you no longer have to leave your dog at home while going on a long vacation with your family.
Leaving your dog alone at home is frustrating, isn’t it? We miss them just as much as they miss us. But without the proper practices and with the question of “how to travel with my dog safely”, many of us are missing out on the wonderful memories and moments we could have made together. But now with Pet Bites, you can get all the dog essentials needed for your next trip, helping you plan your travel smarter and safer than others.
Browse our Dogs’ collection today at Pet Bites to find out the essentials your furry friend needs for a safe trip.
