26 May Long-Distance Dog Travel: Tips for Keeping Your Canine Safe and Comfortable

By: Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com

Placing a dog in unfamiliar and uncomfortable circumstances can be very disconcerting for all involved. Most dogs who don’t travel frequently aren’t happy confined in a moving car or placed in a crate in the hold of an airplane. It takes forethought and careful planning, but it’s possible to keep your four-legged friend safe and comfortable on a long trip.

Careful Crating

If you plan to travel with your pooch in a crate, make certain it’s well-ventilated, large enough to accommodate your dog’s body size, and has soft sides and a comfortable, cushioned surface. Test the container by making sure your dog can turn around, stand, sit, and lie down without difficulty. There should also be enough room so that any food and water dishes don’t get in your pet’s way. If he’s not used to being crated, spend some time helping him acclimate to the container so your departure date doesn’t come as a tremendous shock.

Dog-Friendly Digs

It’s easier to keep a pet calm if you’re able to stay with him. That’s why dog-friendly hotels and restaurants are so helpful and can make your travels with Rover go smoothly. Check online for dog-friendly accommodations if your destination doesn’t allow your pet. Knowing you’ll be staying in a place where your dog can be comfortable will help keep you relaxed as well.

If you travel for business, it’s probably not possible to take your dog along every time. Consider the benefits of hiring a pet sitter, someone who can keep your dog company when you can’t be with him. A few minutes online will help you find an experienced sitter living nearby, one who’s both reliable and whose services fit your budget.

Take ‘Practice’ Trips

A pet that’s known nothing but the interior of your house, your backyard, and the nearest dog park may find it difficult to get comfortable with traveling. If you’re hitting the road together, take your furry friend along for a few “practice” trips to help him ease into it. Start small by taking him along on weekend errands and gradually work up to a day trip to a nearby town.

CBD Oil

CBD oil, a derivative of hemp, has been proven effective at alleviating anxiety in people of all ages, and it can help animals overcome fear and anxiety as well. If your dog will be going on a trip with you, CBD oil could be just the thing to help him relax. There are many brands on the market, so take a look at this buyer’s guide, which profiles this year’s top 10 CBD oils. (Always check with your vet before giving a dog CBD oil, or any new substance.)

Different Forms of ID

You can’t have too much identification when your pet is away from home. He should have an embedded identification microchip as well as a tag with your full address and contact information. Add another layer of security by including a temporary tag with your travel information (including destination, smartphone number, email, etc.). Making it easy to reach you is in your pet’s best interest if something should go wrong while you’re en route.

Food and Water

The last thing you want is for your pet to get sick during a car or plane trip. Bring plenty of bottled water or tap water in jugs because you can’t be sure about the quality of water on an airplane or at rest stops, which can be iffy and may upset his stomach. Don’t forget to take along food that Rover’s familiar with to further minimize the possibility of travel sickness.

Dogs are faithful pets that depend on their owners for love, care, and companionship. If you’re going on a long trip with your furry pal, do whatever’s necessary to keep him comfortable and relaxed. It’s important because an hours-long journey in a car or airplane can be traumatic for an animal that’s unprepared for the experience.

Image courtesy of Pixabay