Get set go… Travelling by road with your dog

Many of us treat our dogs as our children, which makes it truly heartbreaking when we have to leave them at home to go on a holiday. But, if you are travelling by car, it is perfectly feasible to take your pooch along. Here are a few tips for making your vehicle and trip dog-friendly.

We all love to spend time with our pets and holidaying with them is an irresistible proposal. It is extremely safe and easy to travel with your pet by car. Before you start your journey, here are a few things to be kept in mind :

Check for pet-friendly accommodations>

There is nothing worse than arriving at a hotel late at night after a long drive, only to find out that they don’t want any canine guests. Hence, make your hotel reservations beforehand and check with the hotel authorities whether they allow pets or not.

Make your car dog-friendly

If you take your pet everywhere, then my motto is to get a car that suits your pet. For example, my dog is a gorgeous black Labrador-German Shepherd mix, with the large size of a Shepherd, and the heart and sweet temperament of a Lab. Hence, I have settled for Mahindra Scorpio, which has plenty of room in the back for him to sit, stand and lie down. You can even pad the boot area with mattress and cushions to make it more comfortable.

Stock food supplies

After your vehicle is dog-proofed, stock the food supplies that will last the entire trip. Instead of taking a 10 kilo bag of dog food, take small portion bags with you as they save space, are easier to pack, and don’t get stale along the way. Also, carry a small bowl or two, out of which your dog can eat and drink.

Things to carry for his well-being

Also, take all the supplies that your dog needs on a regular basis, such as a brush, shampoo, towel and treats. Be sure to bring all your dog’s medicines as well. Before a long trip, take your dog to the veterinarian for a check up, it’s safer to have a clean bill of health before you go, than to deal with any illness during the trip. Health emergencies are always a possibility though, so get your vet’s mobile number and keep it with you during the drive.

Making your dog comfy in the car

If your dog is a bit nervous about getting into the car, then take some short, trial runs around your neighbourhood to get your dog used to the car. The more comfortable your dog is in the car, the more you can focus on the driving.

Some dogs love to travel, but others, like children, get confused and uncomfortable with a change in routine. To keep them from getting unsettled and depressed, give them lots of love, attention and play time whenever you can. Travelling with your dog can be a wonderfully fun bonding experience. Follow this advice to prepare for the trip, and when you come home, you’ll have more pictures of your precious pet than of the places you visited!

Tips for making trip enjoyable for your dog

• Stop the car every two hours to give your dog water and have a stretch.
  
  
• Give your dog plenty of exercise and play time everyday, especially after a long journey in the car.
  
  
• Try to keep feeding times the same on the trip as at home.
  
  
• Don’t forget to shower your dog with love and petting.

Things to carry

• Food in small, airtight bags to last everyday of the journey.
  
  
• Treats to reward him for his good behaviour.
  
  
• A durable food/water bowl.
  
  
• Two leashes, one long and one short, and at least one collar with a nametag and your phone number attached for safety.
  
  
• Brush, shampoo and towel.
  
  
• Your dog’s favourite toys and balls to play with.
  
  
• Small mattress, cushions, thick quilt or sleeping bag to line the car and give your dog a comfortable place to rest.