Taking Long Road Trips with Your Dogs

Hey everyone, Shay W. here! If you’ve ever thought about taking your dogs on a long road trip, you know it can be a little daunting to plan. But with the right preparation, a road trip with your furry friends can be an amazing adventure for both you and your pups! Roman and Sochi have come along on plenty of long drives, and I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that make the experience comfortable, safe, and fun for everyone. Let’s dive into how to prepare and ensure your dog enjoys the ride.

1. Plan Ahead for a Dog-Friendly Trip

The key to a successful road trip with dogs is planning ahead. Before you even hit the road, make sure you’ve mapped out dog-friendly rest stops and pet-friendly accommodations if you’ll need to stay overnight. Look for places with grassy areas where your dog can stretch their legs, take a potty break, and get some fresh air.

Make a packing list for your dog, too! Some essentials include:

• Water and a portable water bowl

• Food and treats

• Leash and harness

• Comfortable bed or blanket

• Favorite toys

• Waste bags

• Medications or supplements

• Vaccination records (in case you need them at a hotel or boarding facility)

2. Create a Comfortable Space for Your Dog

Your dog’s comfort is a top priority during a long trip. Roman and Sochi each have a cozy car bed that fits perfectly on the back seat. Make sure your dog has a safe, comfortable space to relax during the drive—whether that’s a secured crate, a car bed, or a harness seatbelt. Dogs like a stable surface to lie on, so adding their favorite blanket or pillow can make the space extra cozy.

Make sure your dog is secure during the ride. Not only does it keep them safe, but it also minimizes distractions for you as the driver. Roman loves to try and climb up front, so having a harness seatbelt helps keep him in place while keeping both of us safe.

3. Take Frequent Breaks

Just like us, dogs need frequent breaks during a long drive. Plan to stop every 2-3 hours to let your dog stretch, walk, and go to the bathroom. Roman and Sochi love these stops because it means new places to sniff and explore! Make sure to keep your dog on a leash at all times during breaks, especially in unfamiliar areas where they might be tempted to chase something or wander off.

During these breaks, offer your dog some water and a small amount of food if it’s mealtime. Keeping them hydrated is super important, especially if you’re traveling during warmer weather.

4. Keep Your Dog Entertained

Long drives can get boring, even for dogs. Bringing along your dog’s favorite toys can help keep them entertained. Sochi loves having a chew toy to gnaw on during the ride—it helps keep her calm and occupied. Puzzle toys or stuffed Kongs are also great options, especially for dogs that need a bit more mental stimulation.

I also like to talk to Roman and Sochi during the drive, and sometimes we’ll even play a little game where I hand them treats for responding to basic commands like “sit” or “paw.” It keeps them engaged and helps pass the time.

5. Manage Car Sickness and Anxiety

Not all dogs are natural road trippers, and some might experience car sickness or anxiety. If your dog gets carsick, try feeding them a smaller meal a few hours before the trip and talk to your vet about possible anti-nausea medications. Keeping the car cool and well-ventilated also helps a lot—Roman sometimes gets a little queasy if it gets too stuffy, so I make sure we have plenty of airflow.

For anxious dogs, there are a few options to help them feel more relaxed. Sochi used to get a little anxious during long drives, so I tried using a pheromone spray on her blanket, which seemed to help. Calming chews or even playing soothing music can also make a big difference. The key is to make the car feel like a safe, comfortable space.

6. Keep Safety in Mind

Safety is always a top priority when traveling with pets. Never leave your dog unattended in the car, especially in hot or cold weather. Temperatures inside a car can quickly become dangerous, even if you’re only running into a store for a few minutes. If you need to stop somewhere, try to plan for one person to stay with the dogs, or find pet-friendly places where they can come along.

Another safety tip is to make sure your dog has identification. Make sure their collar has an ID tag with your current contact information, and it’s a great idea to have your dog microchipped in case they get lost. Traveling can be unpredictable, and having proper ID can make all the difference in reuniting with your furry friend.

7. Enjoy the Ride

Lastly, remember to enjoy the ride! Road trips are an opportunity to make memories with your dogs, and they’ll pick up on your mood. If you’re calm, happy, and enjoying the journey, they’re more likely to feel the same. Roman loves sticking his head out of the window (safely, of course), and Sochi is always ready to snuggle up and take a nap. Watching them experience new sights and smells along the way makes every road trip an adventure worth taking.

Whether you’re heading out on a long vacation or just exploring new places for the day, with a little preparation, your road trip can be a wonderful experience for both you and your pups. It’s all about creating a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable environment that helps them feel secure while taking in all the fun of the journey.

Thanks for reading, and happy traveling with your furry friends!

S.W.