Having fun with your dog should not be limited to the quality time you spend at home. It is also wise to also bring on board your furry companion if you are taking a trip to the beach, embarking on a road journey, or taking a flight overseas. However, you will be out of order if you don’t plan before you start on your trip.
For a stress-free trip with your furry friend, you need an extensive guide that offers reliable information to make your travel a success. You will have to figure out whether to bring with you the best dog harness, or what other accessories will make your trip memorable. In essence, traveling with your dog is not that easy.
You cannot just ignite your car, take a taxi or a flight, and bring along your dog. Be considerate and know what regulations, among other things that govern traveling with your pet. With the right travel information, you will find your trip amazing regardless of your destination.
A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling with Your Dog
Taking your dog with you during a vacation regardless of your desired destination is fun if you plan cautiously. However, there are some tips to guide you in your endeavors to put into consideration. They include;
Contact Health and Safety Checks
The health of your pet is quite crucial when planning for a trip. Before leaving for another destination for vacation, have your dog checked by a reputed veterinarian. Ensure your dog gets up-to-date vaccination. If you are traveling to the UK, a rabies vaccination is a crucial requirement.
Bring the health records with you or save them in reliable data storage sources. If you are traveling by airline, you will be required to present health certifications before bringing your dog on board.
Bring with you enough food supply, water, and other treats. Prepare for an emergency by making sure you have with you accurate contact numbers of a 24-hour veterinary institution. In case your dog needs emergency attention, you will have some in mind to contact.
Bring Your Dog Identification Documents
Opt for a permanent form of identification, such as a microchip. Ensure your dog leash and collar has an identification tag that includes your pet’s name, phone number, address, and rabies vaccination proof. Don’t forget to bring your dog’s passport. You can get one from a trustworthy veterinary institution near you.
Traveling by Car
Traveling by car offers maximum freedom and peace of mind when visiting different destinations. However, you have to get your furry friend used to the car. Find practical ways to avoid car sickness and keep the car well-ventilated.
If your dog is in a crate, ensure there is a free flow of air. Significantly, don’t let your dog stick its head out or leave your dog unattended in a closed car. Make sure you follow all the safety and traffic rules while traveling by car and with your dog.
Traveling by Airline
Even if your vacation is a distant destination where you will have to fly, you can still take your dog with you. But then again, there are a number of things to bear in mind. Have a look;
- Visit your veterinarian before your trip. You need a certification of health that shows reliable information on your dog’s rabies vaccination. Your vet will also help know if your dog has weaned or is at least 8 weeks old.
- Keep in mind that each airline has its own rules and regulations. You have to make sure your dog crate is properly ventilated and meets the set travel requirements. If your crate is of the right size, you may be allowed to bring your dog to the passenger cabin.
- Get in touch with your airline in time and ascertain whether there is enough space for you and your furry companion. Check with the airline for specific policies and travel charges.
- If your pet is allowed in the flight cargo, consider the weather conditions before you fly. Look for an early morning or late evening flight if you are traveling to a warm-weather destination. If it’s a cool destination, book midday flights when temperatures are a bit warm.
- Prepare your dog for the flight. Consult with your vet and know what to feed your dog and when to sedate it in case of an emergency. Sedatives can interfere with the normal health conditions of your pet.
Whether traveling by car or airline, bear in mind that you need to pack the right food and bottled water for your beloved pet. Know what to do if your dog experiences stomach upset.
Your veterinarian will have all the answers you need. It is wise also to bring toys and ensure your dog does not get bored.
If you are to spend your nights in lodging, confirm whether your dog is allowed to stay in a hotel room. Ensure your dog is quiet all night long and don’t leave it unattended.
Most dogs feel insecure if left alone and will start to bark.
Don’t let your dog misbehave and hinder other tourists or pet owners an opportunity to bring with them their pets to the lodging in the near future.
Be considerate about the needs and feelings of other people seeking accommodation services.
Essential Accessories to Bring with you if Traveling with Your Dog
Your dog should be microchipped whenever you are traveling. More so, you should not forget to bring your veterinary certificate and pet passport. With all the necessary documentation in place, take the time to figure out what else to include in your packing list.
To cater to the basic needs of your furry companion, make sure you have a clear understanding of all essential accessories you need for your trip to be a success. With this in mind, here are the best accessories to include in your packing list before travel. Have a look;
1 – Collar and Identification Tags
Whenever you move forth from home, ensure your dog is wearing a collar with ID tags.
Engraved collars with your dog’s name, your contact info, and medical info works best.
It should have your dog’s name, your phone number and name, address, and rabies treatment information.
Some tags are web-enabled with smart tag technology that can help your dog return safely.
This is an essential piece that will make it easy to identify your dog in case it gets lost.
These tags are like travel insurance, and you will always rest assured someone will find your dog and make a call.
Ensure the collar is always firmly attached to your pet’s neck and make sure you get one that’s durable enough to last a long time.
Best dog collars:
2 – Dog Travel Carriers
Dog Carriers is a quintessential accessory for pet travel, especially with smaller dogs.
Pet carriers will vary from small portable boxes to crates that you can use to transport your dog from one location to another.
They come in varied designs, and you should pick your carrier depending on the means of transport you are using.
If you are traveling by plane and allowed to bring your dog on board, you will need a dog crate that will easily fit in the cargo hold.
You can opt for backpack pet carriers to use when walking on beaches, hiking, or shopping.
If you are traveling by car, bring your dog car seat.
This is a type of carrier that will easily fit your car seat and provide the necessary safety to your dog.
Best dog carriers:
3 – Seat Belt Harness
You don’t want to violate traffic regulations when traveling with your dog.
You don’t want to get into an accident either due to your dog suddenly jumping about when you hit a speed bump.
It is wise to ensure your pet is safe and comfortable, buckle it up with a unique seat belt harness designed specifically for pets.
It provides safety for you as well as your dog, so you can drive easy knowing you’ll both get to your destination in one piece.
Your dog will not be walking or running around aimlessly in the car when you are driving.
There are leashes specially designed for the car and regular walking, which is what I recommend.
Best dog harnesses:
4 – Dog Leash
You need to bring two or more leashes, especially if your dog loves walking.
You should also have trained to a dog leash, and have a sense of control and relax when walking your pet.
If your dog loves running away, a leash will help control its movements.
There are several types; I prefer retractable leashes that allow a little bit of play so the little guy can run around with a little bit more freedom than with a short leash.
I also carry a couple of carabiners to attach the leash to my belt strap or my backpack when I’m out and about photographing, which requires the use of both hands.
Best dog leashes:
5 – Dog Travel Bed and Beddings
Your dog needs to sleep in a comfortable bed and stay free from harsh weather conditions.
Bring with you a dog’s bed and blankets from home, which really helps with dogs who have anxiety.
Dogs like a smell they are familiar with, and your pet is no different; let your dog always feel at home.
Fuzzy blankets can double up as a coat during cold days and are easy to fold and carry during travels.
There are even mats that can convert to carry tote for easy carry.
Best dog beddings:
6 – Dog Clothes
As you embark on a trip with your dog, don’t forget to pack the best clothes accessories.
Your furry friend is more than a pet and should stand out during trips.
This is especially helpful for breeds with thinner coats as they get cold easily.
The dog outfits you pick for your trip should be appealing and also protect your companion against harsh weather conditions.
For instance, pack a few nice sweaters, bandanas, thunder-shirts for a nervous dog, and other available outfits.
Awesome dog clothing:
7 – Food Bowls
You need to feed your dog the best diet, as you have always done at home.
Traveling out of home does not mean you introduce your dog to new diets.
Pack enough food, and don’t forget to bring your dog’s food bowl.
Stainless steel bowls are always the best as they are easy to clean and keep clean for daily use.
A familiar food bowl is great for dogs with bad eating habits or anxiety.
A collapsible travel food bowl that works great for packability.
Best food bowls for dogs:
8 – Water Bottle/Bowl
Your dog should always have reliable access to drinking water anytime and anywhere.
Bring your foldable dog bowls that are easy to pack and carry around as you have fun with your dog.
A portable water bottle can also be satisfying in places where you don’t have to use a water bowl.
This has to be a unique bottle with an attached cup where, once you push the release button, your dog will be able to drink water and stay hydrated.
But any form of a water bottle will do, I actually just use my own water bottle to carry water for me and my Lucky, and he gets to drink from the bottle cap while I drink right off the bottle itself.
Best water bottle/bowls for dogs:
9 – Dog Travel Calming Treats
If you are traveling by airline with your dog, there is a chance that your dog will suffer from anxiety and stress.
First-time travelers will think of sedating their dogs, but it is not a great idea in the era of calming pet treats.
There are all-natural calming treats you can opt for to calm your dog as well as relieve it of any stress.
The available calming treats contain a lot of healthy organic ingredients such as roots chamomile, hemp oil, and vitamins.
You can get dog calming treats from your veterinarian or pet store near you.
Best dog calming treats:
10 – Dog Toys
A trip far from home with your dog means you are going to share great memories.
To keep your dear pet happy, don’t forget to bring the best toys.
Toys are a necessity for pets and not a luxury.
They are great to help your dog fight boredom, travel anxiety, and car sickness. Dogs are always willing to play.
Get a stuffed soft toy that will offer maximum comfort and relaxation.
Make sure the toy is small enough for the dog to hold in its mouth and easy to carry around. Pick dog bones made of rawhide as they are good for their teeth.
Alternatively, pick hard rubber toys in the shape of bones that will last for many years. Always have a wide variety of toys to keep your dog entertained and busy while on a trip.
Best dog toys:
11 – Pet Tent
If you are going camping, don’t forget to bring a pet tent to provide your furry friend the best shelter and shade.
Personally, we have Lucky sleep with us inside our tent when we go camping, but if you prefer, you can carry individual dog tents.
Ensure the tent is waterproof and comes with breathable mesh windows to keep mosquitoes and insects at bay.
Some portable crates even double up as an outdoor tent for dogs.
There’s even a portable playpen where all your little ones can play!
Best pet tents:
12 – Dog Life Jacket and Dog Float
If you love to spend quality time in the swimming pool or in the water while on vacation, it’s wise to pack a dog life jacket.
You need to keep your dog safe if it likes to splash around in the pool or the ocean.
A dog float will also be great to keep your pet safe in the waters.
While dogs are very capable swimmers, they can get tired and eventually drown just like humans do.
It’s always smart to have a life vest, not just for you but also for your dog.
When we go on a Stand-Up Paddle trip with our Lucky, we always wear life vests, and we also equip the little guy with one just in case.
Best life jackets for dogs:
13 – First Aid Kit
Just like you need a first aid kit during your travels, your dog also needs one.
You need to be prepared in case of an emergency.
A first aid kit is great for adventurous dogs that like to camp, hike, and take part in outdoor activities.
You will be able to treat your pet’s injuries before you seek veterinarian services.
Keep it in your car while traveling and never be too far from first aid kit essentials like antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and an emergency blanket.
Don’t be caught unprepared, always carry a first aid kit!
Best pet first aid kit:
14 – Dog Travel Shampoo
Keeping your dog well-groomed during busy and tedious vacation activities can be taxing.
However, it is a responsibility you can’t shy away from.
Luckily, with the best dog shampoo, you will find it easy to groom your pet.
Just massage the shampoo into your dog’s fur and brush until it is completely dry.
Your dog will look great and with a pleasant smell.
Some shampoos are also made to keep fleas and ticks away so you can just wash your dog instead of using medication.
Best dog shampoos:
15 – Dog Grooming Kit/Tool
Buying a pet grooming kit tool is an invaluable investment.
It is more rewarding if you also bring your kit as you travel with your dog.
You will save time and money taking care of your dog’s grooming needs.
A well-equipped grooming kit will make it easy to trim dog claws and keep its fur in the best shape.
Go for corded or cordless clippers because you will never know when to use the tool.
Specialized grooming to shave furry dogs undercoat is invaluable.
Our Lucky is a corgi and sheds like a maple tree in fall; the grooming tool helps keep him clean as well as our car!
Best dog grooming kits:
16 – Litter Boxes or Training Pads
If you are going to stay in a luxury hotel with your dog, it is a great idea to bring your litter box.
You can imagine the idea of waking up to each day to clean your dog’s feces and urine.
It’s disgusting and taxing, but you can save the hassle by bringing your litter box or training pad
If you have trained your dog to use the box, it will be easy to collect its urine and feces and enjoy great vacation memories together.
Best dog litter boxes and training pads:
To Sum Up
There are wide varieties of dog accessories you should always include in your packing list when traveling with your dog. The accessories you choose should enhance the appearance of your dog, pamper your furry friend, and help you and your dog in many incredible ways. As you plan for your trip, don’t fail to look at travel regulations of different destinations before you bring along your dog.
What are your favorite travel accessories for dogs?
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