Traveling with your dog

I have never had to travel very far with my dog so I don't really know how she would do on long car rides.  The longest she has ever been in my car was for two hours.  And even though it is best to always have your dog in the back seat of your car when you are driving, I had my dog on my lap.  For some reason, she thinks she is a lap dog and she can just sit on my lap whenever she wants to.  

But here are some tips on how to make traveling with your own furry companion an enjoyable experience for the both of you.

*  Always make sure your dog is well exercised before entering the car.
It is very important to make sure that your dog is well exercised before going on a car trip.  This is especially helpful during long drives when your dog will want to sleep for most of the duration.

Taking your dog for a walk or run prior to getting in the car not only gives them time to go to the bathroom before the trip, but it will make sure your dog is calmer and less excitable during the car ride.

*  Always keep your dog's collar and tags on and have their leash handy.
There is always a chance that your dog might try to run away during a rest stop.  It is important to keep your dog on a leash when stopping for food and/or potty breaks. 

*  Bring their bed or something from home.
It will be comforting to your dog to have an item from home with them, like their favorite toy or pillow.  If you have a small dog, bringing their bed will help them sleep during the trip.

*  Stop for breaks every hour and a half.
This time can be spent for much needed walking, eating, drinking, and bathroom breaks for your pet. 

*  Bring your pet's crate for longer trips.
If you are traveling across state lines or going on a long vacation, having your pet's crate ready for them will be helpful.  Always make sure your dog's crate is secured and inside the car in a safe place where they can see you.  Never put your dog's crate in the bed of a truck.  Also, make sure to reward your dog for traveling in the crate, and never make crating seem like a punishment.

*  What to do if your dog is car sick?
If your dog is car sick or suffers from motion sickness, please contact a veterinarian immediately.  Never give your dog motion sickness pills like dramamine or any other medicine intended for human consumption only. 

*  Should you allow your dog to stick their head out the window?
Only if you are in a safe area, during fair weather, and traveling at low speeds.  Never let your dog stick their head out of the window at high speeds, on the highway, or on dirt roads.  They could be injured by flying debris or become ill from having cold air forced into their lungs.  Always keep an eye on your dog as some pets may try to jump out of the window.

It is better practice to keep your dog inside of the car at all times.  They can become over stimulated from the smells in the air and this might confuse and even scare them.  Giving your dog something to chew on during the car ride is a safe way for them to spend their time.

*  Keep your dog in the back seat.
Driving up front with your dog puts them at risk for serious injury or death if the airbag were to deploy or malfunction.