Tips for Traveling with Your Dog(s)

Traveling can be a stressful  challenge when you are a dog parent but it doesn't have to be.  

Do you take them, board them at a kennel, or get a sitter?   I've certainly done struggled with this and have tried all of the above.  My husband and I now take our dogs with us on all of our trips.  Here are some ideas that have worked well for us.  I hope you find them useful.

1. Make your vehicle as travel friendly for your dog(s) as possible.  Your vehicle will get dirty.  I recommend the RuffWear Dirt Bag seat cover for your backseat.  It installs very easily, is waterproof, and cleans up easily.  It will save you a ton of time cleaning up your vehicle after a trip.  

Give your dogs space to stretch out and relax for the ride.  If they are cramped up they will be miserable and so will you. 

2. Make sure your information is up to date.  If your dog has a microchip, make sure your contact information is current.  If you have tags on your dog, make sure those are also current.  Having your contact information current is a huge relief in the event your dog manages to get lost.  

3. Make sure to take your dog's vaccination records with you.  If your dog becomes sick or injured you will need to provide that information to a veterinarian  who will treat your dog.

4.  Take a quality crate.   Its a good idea to make sure your crate is crash tested.  Collapsible crates are great for saving s

5. Take plenty of poop bags and clean up towels. Yes, accidents happen.  Messes happen.  Don't be the person who leaves their dog messes for someone else to deal with.   I like the  Tub of Towels wipes because they are a quick, convenient way to have cleaning wipes available and they come in handy from cleaning up spills to doggie messes. 

6.  S-T-R-E-T-C-H    Plan on additional travel time and plenty of potty and stretch stops.  Rest stops are great for letting your dog get a little bit of exercise and a break from riding in the car.   

7.  Bring Fido is a great app for helping you find pet-friendly hotels and restaurants.  Always check ahead and make sure your dogs are welcome.  Some hotels have size limits and may limit the number of dogs you can bring along.  

Happy travels with your best friend!