Traveling with Your Dog: Keep Your Pup Safe & Happy on the Road

Traveling with your dog (or dogs) can be a wonderful way to create memories that last a lifetime. Whether taking your four-legged companion along for the ride during your spring break trip or for your upcoming summer vacation, there are plenty of dog travel tips to help you prepare for a safe and successful round-trip journey.

Keep Your Dogs Secure at All Times

Dog owners routinely allow their pet(s) to roam the vehicle unsecured while driving. No matter the size of your dog, this can be extremely dangerous in the event of an accident. Small dogs are especially prone to injury, as sudden stops or a minor impact can send them flying throughout the vehicle. On top of injury, there is also the risk of your dog escaping the vehicle after an accident and becoming lost in an unfamiliar area.

Thankfully, eliminating accident-related risks can be achieved with the right equipment. When traveling with dogs, the best solution is to keep them contained in a size-appropriate kennel or crate.

Here are some of our top recommendations for keeping your dog safe and secure during your next road trip:

• MIM Safe VarioCage and MultiCage crates: Some of our favorite automotive crates are made by 4x4 North America. These are the world’s only crates that are crash-tested for safety and come in a variety of sizes to fit most breeds. Plus, we’re currently offering free shipping on MIM products! We’ll talk more about water bowls later, but we carry bowls designed for MIM crates.
• RAM Kennel Collapsible Crate: If you’re looking for a tough and reliable crate that’ll last forever, look no further than the RAM Kennel Collapsible Crate. And if your upcoming travel plans require a flight, be sure to consider the RAM Kennel Airline Compliant Kit.
• PetMate kennels: PetMate manufactures a few different types of travel kennels, like the Vari-Kennel and PetMate Wire Kennel. These are affordable options that will keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Pack a Travel Bag Specifically for Your Pup

Another one of the most valuable dog travel tips is to pack a separate bag or suitcase dedicated to your pup. If you are traveling with multiple dogs, you can usually fit everything into the same bag.

Start by creating a checklist of all of the items you’ll need for your dog — both on the road and for the duration of your stay. Your list of dog travel gear will likely look like this:

• Adequate supply of food: Dogs shouldn’t eat fast food (even if you’re on the road). So pack plenty of kibble for the trip. And be sure to store the food in a Kibble Kaddie or Vittles Vault Travel Container for safety and freshness.
• Food and water bowls: Your dog won’t be able to eat or drink if you don’t pack a couple of bowls for them! Check out the spill-proof Buddy Bowl, a H204K9 Water Bottle, or the Collapsible Travel Cup, which are all great for road trips and adventures.
• Treats: Be sure to reward your well-behaved dog with plenty of treats while you’re driving. Rewarding your dog with treats will keep them calm and happy during long trips.
• Chew toys: Giving your dog a chew toy or bone is the perfect way to keep them occupied and mentally stimulated while in the car. We also carry an assortment of soft chews that your dog will love.
• Dog toys and tugs: While a fetch toy or tug toy isn’t the best item to give your dog while you’re in the car, be sure to bring a few of their favorite toys to play with at rest stops and when you make it to your destination.
• Dog waste bags: Nobody likes a dog owner that doesn’t pick up their dog’s droppings. So don’t be that owner… Pack a few rolls of bags.
• Grooming supplies: It’s not a bad idea to pack grooming essentials, like nail clippers, brushes, or bathing supplies to keep your dog looking his or her best.
• Dog ramp: This isn’t a must-have for all dogs, but older pets or larger breeds may need a dog ramp to get into and out of the car.
• First aid supplies: Nobody likes to think about an accident. But it’s better to be safe than sorry by packing a first aid kit.
• Muzzle: It’s smart to pack a RAM Adjustable Muzzle or a traditional fitted muzzle in case of an emergency where others need to be comfortable around your dog.

There may be other additions you’d like to bring with you. Depending on your dog’s needs and preferences, you might also consider packing a dog bed, extra leashes or collars, dog training supplies, or dog enrichment activities. Also, if there are any supplies or documents that you specifically need from your veterinarian, be sure to request these items well in advance of your trip (never wait until the last minute!).

Plan Routine Rest Stops

As you map out your route, be sure to plan where you’ll be stopping along the way. In every state, there are an abundance of pet-friendly rest stops that make it easy to let your dog walk around and relieve themselves. Before traveling with dogs, conduct online research to see what interstate exits have some of the best pet rest stops for your trip.

Have Pet-Safe Cleaning Supplies on Hand

Living and traveling with dogs means being prepared for messes of all kinds. In the event of rain, mud, or a potty-related accident, it is essential to have pet-safe cleaning supplies on hand at all times. Keep your vehicle stocked with towels of varying sizes (along with bags to hold soiled towels until they can be washed), a spray bottle of plain water, dog shampoo, and a pet-safe cleaner.

Get Everything You Need from J&J Dog Supplies

There’s no need to run all over town searching for all of the items we’ve mentioned above. We carry all of the gear you need for all of your next road trip and everything you need to keep your dog happy and comfortable at home. Check out our latest arrivals today!