How to Travel with Your Dog
No one wants to leave Fido behind when they head out. With a little planning, you can make your next trip a great one for you and your four-legged friend.
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You Will Need
- Your dog’s vaccination records
- A dog collar
- Identification tags
- A dog crate or restraining harness
- A sturdy leash
- Plastic bags
- Two bowls
- Dog food
- Masking tape
Steps
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Step 1
Update your dog's vaccinations and get a copy of the records. They are important if your dog is boarded or requires emergency care during the trip.
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Step 2
Get your dog a well-fitting collar that includes an identification tag with your contact information.
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If the phone number on your dog’s tags isn’t one where you can be reached, use masking tape to add a temporary contact number.
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Step 3
Get a properly labeled, airline-approved crate for your dog if you'll be flying. Ask the airline what papers you need to bring.
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Step 4
Determine where your dog should ride in the car. In a crate is the safest place, but a restraining harness with seat belt attachment will also work.
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Don’t let your dog ride with his head out the car window or in the bed of a truck. Injuries can result from flying debris or from sudden starts and stops.
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Step 5
Stop frequently for exercise and bathroom breaks. Use plastic bags to clean up after your dog. Offer your dog fresh water in a bowl.
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Dogs can get carsick on long trips. Avoid feeding your dog for three hours prior to a trip to relieve carsickness.
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Step 6
Feed your dog when you arrive at your destination or when you stop for the day. Include fresh drinking water.
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Step 7
Give your dog a short walk to let him relax and unwind. He’s had a big day, and now you can both enjoy some well-earned down time.
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Two dogs were among the survivors of the Titanic.
