Get Ready To Travel With Dogs

Having a dog doesn't have to make you housebound, it just makes you a better planner. So plan that trip as you normally would, but be sure to include these tips in those plans.

A few tips to make your dog, too, a world traveler. Well,maybe not world, but don't tell your dog.

1. A time or two around the block.

If the only trip your dog has made in the car is to the vet you need to change that before your trip. Give your dog a ride to the dog park if there is one in your town, or to a field to romp and run. Drive him to your friend house. If your friend lives next door, go to a drive through burger joint first. Give your puppy a treat or two from your burger bag then drive back to your friend house.

2. Empty tummy, um good!

If taking your dog around the block a time or two has resulted in car sickness, do not feed him on the day of the trip. Your dog would rather feel hungry than sick, just like you.

3. Water, water everywhere.

Pack plenty of water and your dog's water dish from home. A dog is sensitive to smells and water from a different water source than his regular water might not be appealing. Forget to stop often enough to water your dog.

4. The comforts of home.

Familiar surrounding is comforting so make sure you pack all your dogs favorite things including, but not limited to: your dog food, his favorite toys, his/her best treats, and the comfy bed. And don't forget the leash or you will be sorry!

5. Home away from home.

Since this trip is basically for you, there might be times you need to leave the dog alone in a strange hotel room. Your dog would be happiest in his own crate while you were away. If your vehicle is too small to house the crate with everything else you packed, try finding one that folds down, and just pop it up when you get there.

6. Buckle up for safety.

For the trip, your dog needs to be comfortable and safe, just like you. If your dog prefers sitting or lying on the seat, make sure you put a blanket down to protect the seat, and I am sure the dog appreciates it too. Other dogs won't travel in a car without being in a crate, just make sure the crate is secure and not able to move around, and scare the dog, as you drive. There are seat belts for dogs and if your dog likes to sit up in the front seat, these are perfect to keep him/her safe, just like you.

7. Bathroom breaks rest stops.

There are usually rest stops you can pull off into on interstate highways, these are perfect places to let your dog walk around, and drink some water. Your dog would probably become frightened if you just let him/her walk around near where trucks are whizzing by, so if you can't find a rest stop, make sure you walk your dog far enough into the woods or field to leave the worst noise behind. And don't forget your civic duty to clean up after. Make sure you pack plenty of plastic bags and your scooper.

8. Flavor: flavor is where it's at.

If your dog won't eat even his favorite food while on the trip, it's probably because he is anxious about the strange surroundings. It's important your dog, at the very least, drink some water and not get dehydrated. You might have to flavor up his water and food with a broth or gravy to make it irresistible even to an anxious dog.

Going away from home, for the first time, for an extended stay is anxiety producing for almost any dog. Take the time to help your dog out and make the trip as pleasant as possible. Once your dog realizes they will return home, after such a pleasurable time, they might even look forward to their next trip.