Prepare for a dog-friendly trip

Headed to grandma’s house but she doesn’t have room for your precious pup? No worries, you can still plan a dog-friendly trip with a little help from the folks at GoPetFriendly.com.

GoPetFriendly.com not only helps you find dog-friendly hotels, but also the tools to plan your ultimate road trip complete with destinations and activities.

“Our mission is to make traveling with pets easier and more enjoyable,” said Amy Burkert, founder of GoPetFriendly.com. “By highlighting destinations throughout the U.S. that have proven themselves to be pet-friendly, we hope to encourage more people to include their pets in their travel plans – whether they are headed across the country or across the state.”

Step 1: Prepare

Once you’ve mapped out the route for your dog-friendly trip, you need to make sure your dog is ready for the car ride. Nothing would spoil the fun more than a nervous traveler.

If you haven’t taken your dog on many long car rides, consider taking some short trips — maybe a day trip to a favorite hiking spot — to get your dog acclimated to spending more than a few minutes in the car.

Make sure your dog feels safe in the car.

You have several options for car-friendly crates. You can use a hard-sided plastic crate that’s also approved for airline travel. For added ease, choose one that has two doors.

Other options include collapsible crates or soft crates that will take up less space when you reach your final destination. Or you could use a soft carry bag to keep your dog confined while in the car. 

Another option, use a dog car seat. 

Always remember to never leave your dog alone in the car, especially on hot days. 

Step 2: Pack dog-friendly trip essentials

And don’t forget a few essentials to ensure a dog-friendly trip:

* Bring your dog’s food and water from home. Just like people, dogs can occasionally have tummy troubles when you change what they eat.

* Pack favorite toys or blankets. Dogs not only are creatures of habit, but they also love their comforts. Just like with a toddler, you might have a sleepless night if you forget to bring along a stuffed toy your dog usually sleeps with.

* Bring the leash and plan to take frequent breaks during your trip so your dog can stretch his legs and go potty.

* Don’t forget to stock up on treats and chew toys to keep your pup entertained.

Step 3: Expand your horizons

What if you’re planning a more exotic dog-friendly trip?

If you’re planning to travel outside the U.S., the helpful folks at Greyhounds as Pets, have put together this beautiful graphic with tons of helpful information about international pet travel.

Sara B. Hansen has spent 20-plus years as a professional editor and writer. She’s also the author of The Complete Guide to Cocker Spaniels. She decided to create her dream job by launching DogsBestLife.com in 2011. Sara grew up with family dogs, and since she bought her first house, she’s had a furry companion or two to help make it a home. She shares her heart and home with Nutmeg, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Her previous dogs: Sydney (September 2008-April 2020), Finley (November 1993-January 2008), and Browning (May 1993-November 2007). You can reach Sara @ editor@dogsbestlife.com.

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