Don’t Let Them Put Their Head Out The Window: Even though it looks harmless, it just isn’t safe to let your pet stick their head out the window while you are driving. This leaves your pet vulnerable to anything that might be flying along in the road, debris, bugs, even things from the cars in front of you. You should also never put your pet in the back of a pickup truck. It is so dangerous (especially on long trips) that the majority of states actually have laws against this type of animal transport!

Stop Often: Take lots of small little rest breaks so that they can get out and use the bathroom. Remember that your pet has a smaller bladder than you do so they’ll need to use the bathroom more frequently. When taking your pets on bathroom breaks or short walks, try to stick to any pre-determined pet area that can be found at most rest stops. Also make sure that your pet stays on a leash and has proper collar identification any time that you venture outside the vehicle.

Stay Hydrated: Always keep some water handy so that they can re-hydrate at each rest stop. A trick that a lot of people swear by is bringing ice-cubes along with them on any long road trip. This cuts down on the space needed compared to bringing water jugs and is fun for your pet to eat.

Watch Their Food Intake: It is suggested that you keep feeding to a minimum while traveling. This also means feeding them their regular pet food and not whatever part of your fast-food that you didn’t finish. Pets and french fries, burgers or any other sort of fast-food item usually are not a good mix.

No Leaving Your Pet Alone In The Car: Don’t ever leave your car with your pets still inside. On your typical warm days, the temperature in your car could rise up to 120 degrees in minutes, even if you have the windows open for them.

Restrain Your Pets: While in your car, keep your pets restrained. Properly using a pet safety-harness or travel kennel are the fastest ways to keep your pet safe. Either method will keep your pet safe from harm as well as keep them from distracting the driver. A pet safety harness is similar to a regular seatbelt, just made to restrain your four legged friend. It’s a safe bet to let your pet try on any pet harness before any road-trip, this way they will also get use to the way it feels. Make sure any dog kennels that you use are well ventilated, as air circulation might be poorer in the back. If you have a large pet, look into using a pet barrier in your car. These are best used with large cars and SUVs. One of the most important travel tips to remember is that they should not be traveling in the passenger seat, no matter how cute they might look.

Comfortable and Secure: The number one thing to focus on should be your pets comfort. If your pet is comfortable then the ride will go smoothly. Their comfort is as important as your own. Imagine having to drive on a long-trip sitting in a seat that hurts or is uncomfortable. It’d make for a pretty un-fun trip! Same goes for your pet. An easy trick to put your pet at ease is to bring along their favorite toy or blanket.

To read more pet travel tips visit the Online Pet Vet and get answers to your own pet questions.

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