
6 Useful Tips for Pet-friendly Road Trips
Road trips with your pet sound like fun, but it can be challenging as well. After all, despite being highly trained, pets can behave in the most unpredictable ways. This can be quite harrowing; for instance, you’re cruising along the highway at super speed and your cat suddenly jumps on your lap. Or your puppy gets the hyperactive zoomies. Here are a few tips for a pet-friendly road trip you’ll find helpful.
Go to the vet
Before you embark on the fun road trip with your pet, go to the vet. Ensure that your pet undergoes a thorough check-up and is up-to-date on all vaccines including rabies. Additionally, get your pet medicated for ticks and fleas. Also, ask the vet for proper medications that your pet may need for anxiety, nausea, stress, and restlessness.
Make the route pet-friendly
Planning the route is the key to a fun and hassle-free road trip with your pet. Plan the trip considering your pet’s needs such as exercise and potty breaks. Make a note of places that are spacious and safe enough for your pets to stretch. Make sure to stop at pet-friendly parks en route your destination.
Look for pet-friendly facilities
While planning your road trip, look for pet-friendly facilities and accommodation. Many rest stops have designated areas for pets. Moreover, you will find pet-friendly cafes and restaurants on your trip that provide treats, play areas, and even pet-friendly bathrooms. Also, some motels and hotels don’t mind your pets staying with you.
Take a few trial trips
Is your cat anxious staying in a portable pet kennel for too long? Take your pet on a few practice trips before you go for a long road trip. Try behavioral training techniques during these trial trips. End these trips with positive reinforcements so that your pet gets used to longer trips. You can take your pets to a park or their favorite store so that they have positive associations with traveling in the car.
Pack essentials
Don’t forget to pack essentials that your pet will need. Pack their favorite toys, treats, and feeding bowls along with their medication and food. Better avoid buying supplies on the way, since you may not find flavors and brands that your pet prefers. Try not to change your pet’s routine so that they have less anxiety. You can also pack a water-resistant pet car seat, dog slings, and hammocks in the backseat. This will keep your pet comfortable and protect the interior of your car from bites, fur, and claw marks.
Update your pet’s ID
Finally, make sure you update your pet’s ID before the trip. Put in all the necessary information, especially your cell phone number. If you have friends or family living in areas where you plan to stop, list their phone numbers as well.