There are dogs that just to love to travel. Having said this, you need to have a good understanding of their needs and lifestyle if you want to indulge along for a road trip. Remember, your furry family member could prove hard to control during this time if you don’t know what to expect.
Make it simple on yourself and your dog. Here, we’ve collected a few tips when taking your best pal alongside with while keeping up your car in tip-top shape as well. Check out these tips from Philkotse.com.
Keeps dogs calm inside the car by taking them for a walk before traveling
1. Feed your dog a few hours before the trip
Just like us, dogs can also be car sick. To check if your dog has motion sickness, make short trips to check their behavior inside a moving car. To avoid an upset tummy, you can skip a meal or feed them very lightly.
However, you can also let them go to the potty as many times as they need to. You can gauge if your dog has a full tummy. If it will be a new experience for your dog, see how he does, and you will know what to do next time.
Avoid giving food to your pooch before the trip. He might end up throwing up
2. Train your dog during the trip
While on the road, this will be a chance for you to train or practice your dog’s habits -- like its reactions when meeting another individual or another dog without hopping, barking or being so excited. Just be careful with overstressing your pet, especially if it’s not too sociable or not yet exposed to not-so-familiar people and situations.
If you want your dog to travel with you then he must get used to the idea of riding a moving vehicle
>>> Also read: Things to consider when buying a pet-friendly car
3. Deal with them as you would with kids
Just like our kids, dogs can also be restless or have jitters inside your vehicle. It can come in a variety of reasons. Traffic-induced boredom could be one.
Other dogs have nervousness issues and may begin yapping, like how kids would simply begin crying, so you should have the capacity to calm them down or give treats for them. Bring more treats or toys that you may need. As with kids, the way to resolve this situation is to keep them busy.
Do not forget to pack your dogs' favorite toy and some treats to keep him calm
Never leave your dog inside the car unless it is trained to be left alone, but only for a brief time. Place the dog in the carrier if you cannot avoid leaving them.
4. Confine your dog to one area of your vehicle
It’s wrong to allow your dog to walk around the vehicle unrestricted. If your dog is an anxious traveler and you’re looking at a long trip, place him in a pet cage or carrier. There is a possibility you may not be able to concentrate on your driving if you cannot confine your pet in a carrier.
This way you can also monitor them and you can stay focused on your driving. Make the cage as comfortable as possible. Place pillows and toys inside so your pooch can take a nap. Never place hard objects like bottles inside so your pet won’t get hurt if the vehicle makes jarring moves.
Invest in a top quality harness or better buy a car seat belt meant for dogs
5. Buy a quality carrier
When getting a carrier, consider the ventilation. Make sure that your pet can move around, like stand, seat, and relax inside. Secure the carrier so it will not move around during travel.
This can also prevent the dog from getting carsick. Safety belts are not an assurance for your pet’s safety in case of an accident. Placing them inside a carrier is still the safest.
Secure your dog in a carrier
>>> Worth to note: Driving with your dog around town: What car accessories would you need?
6. Dispense with odors
After your trip, now it’s time to clean your car. Give your vehicle a careful vacuuming to rid it of dander, hair, and the smell related to them. If your fabric seats have absorbed the smell, clean with baking soda and let it stay the whole night.
Vacuum it the following morning and appreciate the crisp fragrance. You can always find a way of keeping your vehicle clean while traveling with your furry friend.
Remain mindful of your dog’s safety when they are in the vehicle. Their safety relies upon you. Let your impulses be your guide. Be that as it may, travel safely and have a great time with your furry friend.
>>> Click here to get more helpful tips and advice for all car owners.
