Tips for Traveling with Dogs

Be responsible to your pet by preparing well with them for any upcoming camping, car rides, flights, or hotels. dezy/Shutterstock

Before you decide to take Fido on a trip with you, consider whether it’s feasible – and whether it’s even beneficial for the dog. Taking your dog on a vacation takes care and planning! Here are some tips for traveling with dogs and things to consider before you go.

Any veterinarian or professional dog trainer will tell you that before you decide to take your dog on any sort of trip with you, you should always consider what you are going to be doing, where you are going, and whether you will have time for your dog. If you will be sight-seeing in places such as museums, galleries or restaurants, it may be best to leave your dog with a friend, find a pet sitter or board your dog while you are away.

Short Car Rides

Buckle up your pooch. When traveling by car, even if it’s just a short trip, consider your dog’s safety. Invest in an accident-tested safety harness or dog seat to help your dog stay safe and secure in the event of an accident, and also, so that your dog stays put and is not distracting you from driving. I once had a miniature doxy who was small enough to fit under the car seats. While I was driving down the highway at 55 mph, she got under the driver’s seat, then proceeded to go directly under my feet – under the gas/brake pedals!