Hitting the open road is always a fun adventure. Taking your four-legged best friend with you makes it even more exciting. However, it is not as easy as throwing stuff in a bag and heading off. Here is a guide to taking a road trip with your dog.
Before packing up, take the time to prepare your dog for the trip. Here is a list of things to do before the trip.
Car Rides
If your dog's only time in the car is trips to the vet or groomers, start taking longer rides. During each ride, increase the distance. The test drives will allow you to address any problems your dog may have on a long trip.
New Places
Some furry companions love exploring unknown places, while others may not. Take your dog to unfamiliar places. Upon arriving, have your dog's treats on hand. Use the treats to reward them for exploring the new area. Soon, they will associate unknown places with their treats.
Address Anxiety Problems
Some dogs show signs of anxiety when it comes to car rides. There are a couple of options a pet parent can use, including medication. Please consult a vet first. Another option is to turn the car into a familiar and fun place. Allow the dog to jump in and out. Fill it with his toys, and let him play. Place a favorite bowl with food and water and get him to eat and drink. Hide treats and encourage him to find them. The car will soon become a safe, fun place.
A Trip To The Vet
The vet will ensure your furry companion is up-to-date on shots and can help address anxiety issues. They will also provide you with a copy of your dog's medical records for the trip.
What do you need to bring for your pet?
Create a packing checklist for your dog. You will need food, treats, bowls, medications, bottled water, and all your dog's paperwork. Your dog will need car bedding, a collapsible crate for the hotel, or bedding for a tent. Toys are vital. If your dog goes through toys quickly, try to purchase some he can not destroy on the first day. A leash and up-to-date dog tags are a must. Consider an air tag just in case you get separated.
Should I Get Travel Insurance For My Dog?
When traveling, there is no telling when the unpredicted will happen. That is why purchasing travel insurance is a wise decision. The same goes for traveling with furry family members. They, too, need to have travel insurance.
Pet travel insurance will cover a variety of things depending on the carrier. Most policies will cover vet expenses. Travel insurance will help cover the costs if your pup gets sick or injured. Insurance will help to cover the costs associated with travel delays or cancellations. Also, if your pet gets lost or stolen, travel insurance will help cover the costs incurred when looking for your pet. The insurance will cover the costs your dog causes, whether property damage or damage to another dog or person.
