Pets Shop UK

Traveling with dogs

Why take your dog on a journey ?

It can bring families closer together and also allows you the opportunity to take the furry members of your clan along with you. Taking your pets along on a road trip is a great way to avoid the trauma and expense of boarding your dogs or cats. But traveling long distances in a car isn't so easy for all animals.

How to take your dog on a road trip

Prepare well

First things first. It goes without saying that pooch should be properly toileted before setting off. A light walk and some fresh air just beforehand is the perfect way to settle your furry friend. Most dogs love going in the car, as it usually means they’re going somewhere exciting – and they love to feel included. But if your pooch isn’t the best of travellers, you might want to consider restricting food until the journey is over. Instead, try giving him some cooled ginger tea, sweetened with manuka honey, before you set off. Other dog owners swear by a ginger snap biscuit to settle the stomach.

Help him feel relaxed

However you choose to transport him, help him to feel safe and relaxed in his doggy space for the duration of the journey, so he will be able to settle and make himself at home. Make sure that he isn’t too cramped, that the temperature and sound levels are comfortable and that he doesn’t have direct sunlight shining on him. Anxious doggie travellers often benefit from the fresh air and interesting smells coming through the crack of a slightly open window.

In case of an emergency

Try and find out if there is somewhere to take your dog for toileting as soon as you arrive at your destination. If you often travel with your furry friend, it might be worth keeping an emergency dog pack in the car in case of a breakdown or accident. This could include: some long-life dog food and extra water, a couple of blankets and many more essential items. If you get all the steps right your little friend will feel safe and ready for a long trip ahead of him.