Whenever you have the opportunity to travel with your dog, it should be fun, not stressful. But let’s be real—new places, long rides, and unfamiliar environments are sure to make dogs at least a little anxious.
The good news is that a few familiar comforts can make all the difference. If you’re headed somewhere new together, here’s what you should pack to keep your pup happy on the road:
1) Their Favorite Blanket or Bed
Dogs love familiar scents, so bring their usual blanket or bed to help them settle in. Whether you’re staying in a hotel, at a friend’s house, or camping, they’ll appreciate a familiar spot to rest. Either item will reduce their baseline stress and help them sleep better.
If your dog has a designated bed at home, bring it along if it’s portable. Otherwise, you can bring a collapsible crate if they’re crate-trained. Look for one that’s lightweight, well-ventilated, and easy to set up. Furnish it with their favorite blanket to make it extra cozy.
2) Toys They Love
Not all toys are equal in your dog’s eyes. If you want them to be comfy on your travels, pack the ones they actually play with. A chew toy is great for general stress relief, while squeaky custom plush toys or ropes can help burn off energy during breaks at rest stops. Rotating toys throughout the trip can also keep them interested and prevent boredom from setting in.
3) Calming Aids (If Needed)
Some dogs love to travel, but others, not so much. If yours gets anxious on the road, consider bringing calming accessories like pheromone sprays, calming collars, or anxiety vests as well as vet-approved calming treats. Try these at home first to see what works best, and introduce them gradually before your trip.
4) A Travel Water Bottle and Collapsible Bowl
Hydration is a key factor in your dog’s safety and enjoyment of their travel experience, especially during long trips or hot weather. A travel-friendly bottle with a built-in bowl will make life easier when you’re both on the go. Remember that dehydration can lead to fatigue and irritability, so always have fresh water available and let your pet take regular water breaks.
5) A Sturdy Leash and Harness
A well-fitted harness helps keep your dog secure, especially in new environments. Choose a strong leash for safety and control, especially in busy areas. The harness will also distribute pressure more evenly, reducing strain on your dog’s neck and making it easier to guide them.
If your trip involves hiking or other outdoor activities, bring a harness with a handle for better support. For a long car ride, get a travel harness with seatbelt attachments.
6) Dog-Safe Wipes
Accidents, drool, and muddy paws can all happen on your trip. Pack some gentle dog wipes to keep things clean without needing a full bath. They’re great for wiping down fur, cleaning paws after a walk, or freshening up in between breaks. Look for hypoallergenic wipes that are free from harsh chemicals to avoid issues like skin irritation.
7) Treats and Chews
Tasty snacks will help with training and provide comfort to your dog while you’re in transit. Long-lasting chews, like bully sticks, will also keep them sufficiently occupied during long drives or flights. Treats can also reinforce good behavior and make travel a more positive experience for them. Opt for healthy, high-quality treats with natural ingredients.
8) Their Regular Food
Sudden diet changes can upset your dog’s stomach—a problem that will inconvenience you both during your trip. Pack enough of their usual food for the trip, plus a little extra just in case. Sealed containers will keep the food fresh.
If you feed your dog raw or home-cooked meals, consider pre-portioning meals in airtight bags or containers to make feeding easier while on the go. Consider freeze-dried raw food as a travel option, too. Lastly, don’t forget to bring a collapsible food bowl so you can easily feed them even while you’re on the road.
9) Up-to-Date ID Tags and Microchip Info
Even when you take precautions for your dog, accidents can still happen. Knowing that, make sure your dog’s ID tags have your current contact info in case they get separated from you. If they’re microchipped, check that your details are correct before leaving. Also, keep a recent photo of your dog on your phone in case they get lost, as this can help others identify them quickly.
10) A First-Aid Kit for Dogs
Be ready for minor scrapes or injuries with a kit that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, styptic powder, electrolytes for dogs, and any necessary prescription meds along with a copy of your vet’s instructions. If you want to go beyond basic preparations, create a list of emergency vet clinics in the areas you’ll be traveling in so that your dog will be safe and quickly cared for when they need it.
11) Weather-Appropriate Gear
Check the forecast before you leave. If it’s cold, pack a sweater or coat, and if it’s hot, bring a cooling vest or mat to keep your dog comfortable. Booties may also be useful for protecting their paws from hot pavement or icy conditions.
12) Poop Bags (Lots of Them!)
Don’t forget to be a responsible pet parent on your trip. Bring plenty of biodegradable poop bags and a portable waste container for easy disposal. No one likes stepping in a surprise, and many public spaces require cleanup, so it’s always good to have extras on hand.
Ready to Travel with Your Dog?
On top of bringing their comfort items, try to keep your dog comfortable and close to their familiar routine by observing their feeding, walking, and sleeping schedule as close to normal as you can during your trip. Also make it a point to pet and talk to them often; they might not understand your words, but they know your tone. Giving them plenty of attention and affection helps reassure them that everything’s okay.
A little preparation goes a long way in making travel enjoyable for you and your dog. Pack the right essentials, keep their routine steady, and offer plenty of reassurance that you’ll have fun together. Regardless of whether you’re off on a weekend road trip or a big adventure, making your pup feel safe and comfortable means a better experience for both of you.
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