Traveling with dogs has never been simpler – whether that means reconnecting with family across the country or exploring an exotic new locale. Airlines and hotels are taking notice of how pet-friendly vacations can be more cost effective for everyone involved.

If your pup doesn’t enjoy flying, consider hiring a pet sitter or asking friends and family who know your pup to look after him while traveling.

Get Your Dog Used to Their Carrier

Traveling with your pup can be an incredible way to explore a new locale or reunite with distant relatives; but, if your pup hates his/her carrier, the trip could quickly turn into an unpleasant one.

There are steps you can take to help your dog accept his or her crate. Placing it in areas of the home where he or she often goes can familiarize him or her with its presence; also try feeding their meals inside it starting with its door open for best results.

Engaging your dog in short practice drives in their kennel will allow them to associate it with positive experiences, making the long drive more manageable for everyone involved.

Take Short Practice Drives

Step one in this process should be teaching your pup that being in a car can be enjoyable. Do this by taking short trips in their vehicle with treats (such as cheese or hot dogs). This will help your dog associate car rides with positive experiences and build their confidence for future travels.

Step two of traveling safely with your pup should involve keeping his/her head out of the window when driving. Although it might look cute, you don’t want your canine getting hit by debris passing by or being thrown out during an accident. Furthermore, accidentally closing power windows while his/her head is outside can result in serious injuries; to safeguard both your dog’s wellbeing and that of others traveling in your car it is wise to use child locks on all windows when travelling with him/her.

Don’t Let Your Dog Ride With Their Head Out of the Window

Keep your pet safely contained within its carrier for everyone’s benefit. It could save them from getting hurt or hit by passing vehicles!

Before traveling with your pet, check with a vet to ensure they have any required health certificates, vaccination records or other paperwork the airline may request. In addition to that information, bring along copies of microchip information.

For long trips, bring water, food bowls and leashes, waste scoops, grooming supplies, treats and toys that your pet likes. A pheromone calming collar or medication from your veterinarian could also be helpful to reduce anxiety during travel. In addition, pack an emergency kit including first-aid items as well as towels or blankets in case of accidents as well as plastic bags to collect any excrement that occurs.

Carry Your Pet’s Important Documents

Transporting your dog on long trips can be an added burden. While driving is generally preferred to flying as it will ensure their health and well-being is preserved, occasionally flying may be your only viable option.

If you decide to fly with your pet, make sure they are up-to-date on vaccinations and their microchip is scannable. Also consider carrying their health certificate with you along with any necessary documents like leash or passport.

Make sure to pack enough food and water bowls for the duration of the journey, and bring their own bowl during stops to help them stay hydrated and not encounter foreign water sources that could upset their stomachs. By doing so, ensuring they get adequate fluid intake.

Be Prepared for Accidents

Traveling with your pup can be both rewarding and challenging; to ensure an enjoyable trip for both of you, it is crucial to conduct some preliminary research and plan ahead.

Make sure your dog is crate or harness-trained and purchase a crash-tested carrier sized appropriately for your car – this restraint will prevent him or her from becoming a projectile during an accident, thus decreasing injuries both to you and to your pet.

Travel first aid kits should include items like bandages, tweezers, antiseptic wipes and tape in case any accidents or injuries arise during a journey. This will enable you to provide immediate attention if accidents arise while on the journey.https://www.youtube.com/embed/EK_iKq9_8Oo