How To Prepare For Your Road Trip With Fido

Vacationing with your dog should be an enjoyable experience for both of you. Most of the time, driving to your destination is easier and less stressful than flying. Make sure you make the proper preparations for your dog before you leave on your trip.

Make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date. Even if they are, you will need to get a rabies and bordatella vaccines a few weeks before you travel is you are going to be crossing state lines. If your destination is a camping, hiking, or other outdoors trip, you may want to consider getting your dog a Lyme disease vaccination as well. Your vet can determine if your dog needs one based on where you are going.

Make sure you have all your dog's necessities. It is a good idea to pack a few gallons of water and a large bag of dog food. There is no guarantee that you will be able to stop regularly and purchase these items so it is better safe than sorry. Do not forget your dog's bowls either. Some dogs will not eat any food other than their regular brand or the stress of the trip combined with a new food will cause them to have stomach upset and diarrhea.

It is also a good idea to bring your dog's comfort items form home like his blanket, bed, or favorite toy. Even if your dog loves going for rides around town, they can become stressed on long trips and these items will go a long way in calming them. Bring an extra leash, collar, and tags. If you loose any of these items, you will be glad you packed them. Having an extra leash will also allow you to tie your dog outside if you are going to be spending much time out doors. Having a first aid kit in the car is a good idea anyway, but it is especially important when you are traveling with your dog. It is easy for dogs to cut their feet on glass and debris during roadside stops and it is better to be safe than sorry.

You should also travel with your dog's veterinary records and other identifying paper work. If you are traveling to Canada or Mexico, they will be required. You also never know if you will have to take your dog to a veterinary clinic while traveling or otherwise need proof of vaccinations. Some hotels require that you have your dog's veterinary records and all kennels require them as well. If your dog is pure bred it also cannot hurt to travel with their breed paperwork.

You might want to consider micro chipping your dog if you travel with him frequently, and whether your dog is micro chipped or not make sure he wears ID tags at all times. You should also make your hotel reservations in advance to make sure you can get a pet friendly room. If you follow these travel tips, your vacation with your dog will be an enjoyable one.

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