Health Tips When Traveling In The Car With Dogs

Planning a road trip is always a fun thing for the whole family. And if your furry four-footed Fido is an important part of that family, chances are that you just might want him to come too. But did you know that there are a few special things you should do in preparing to travel with a pet? Some dogs just love hop a ride in your car or truck while others have a nervous stomach about it. In order to make your road trip more enjoyable for both you and the family pooch, keep some of the following tips in mind when making your road trip plans.

1. Get the full work-up. Make sure that your dog is in tip top shape and is up to date on all of his vaccinations and heartworm treatments. You will want to carry a certificate of health with you during your trip which lists your dog's current shot records, negative test for heartworms and most importantly, proof of a rabies shot.

2. Tag, you're it! Your beloved pooch should have a durable collar with an identification tag which states your address and phone numbers. Be sure your cell number is on there, especially since you are traveling with him. Invest in a microchip if possible. These are great for identifying your dog if the identification tags and collar is lost.

3. Carry a document pouch for your dog. This pouch should contain the health certificate and hot records as mentioned above along with a photo of your dog, his veterinarian's phone number and current medications if any. You never know if you may have to call upon your vet for medical advice should your dog get sick on the road.

4. Utilize seat belts for dogs. You can purchase a harness from a pet store which connects to a regular seat belt. This harness will allow your dog to move a bit like lie down, stand or sit; it will also protect him from flying slamming into the seat or dashboard if you have to break suddenly.

Another option is to bring your pet carrier with you. It must be big enough for your pet to maneuver in and have proper ventilation. Of course, you must have a way to secure the pet carrier with a seat belt or harness, depending on where you put the pet carrier.

5. No outside window gazing is allowed. While dogs love to stick their head out the window and let the wind ripple their fur, it is not good for them. They could become sick when the air is forcibly pushed into their lungs; plus, they could breathe in bug or other projectiles and injure themselves. The window itself can be a hazard should it accidentally start to close while the dog's head is still sticking out.

Traveling with dogs can be a joy but it takes prep time to ensure that his needs are taken care of too. Be sure to pack some of his favorite snacks and toys and carry his food dishes too. The familiar always helps a dog acclimatize to new surroundings. And just like with your kids, your dog will likely want and need periodic potty breaks. Just be sure to complete your poop detail! The bottom line is to just use your best judgment when it comes to knowing what is right for your dog and you'll have a grand trip together on the road.

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