With a little bit of preparation, you can make sure that your dog has a great time while travelling with you. Here are some tips for travelling with your dog and how to keep them calm and happy when travelling.
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With the holiday season in full swing, more and more people are travelling and bringing their beloved pet with them. Travelling with your dog can be so rewarding, but here are some tips as to how to travel with your dog and make it as stress free as possible.
When travelling by car, make sure that you have a well-ventilated area for your dog to sit in the back seat. You should also try to avoid travelling during peak traffic hours where possible.
Always ensure your dog is safely strapped in with a car seat belt attachment when travelling in your car. The WeatherBeeta travel harness is ideal to wear during car journeys with its soft, breathable padding, multiple adjustment points for a snug fit, and two attachment options for strapping your dog in.
If you’re heading off on a long road trip, research beforehand any potential stopover destinations that are dog friendly when you're driving long distances. For example, if you will be stopping somewhere for some food along the way, check if the place allows dogs to be with you. This is especially important during summer when the weather is too hot to leave your pet in the car unsupervised. Also ensure you stop every few hours or so to allow your pet some time outside of the vehicle for toileting breaks and to stretch their legs.
Bring water and food with you - dogs need to eat more than humans do when they are on the go. Allow your dog access to fresh water whenever they want. Always be mindful of what your pet is eating when you are away from home – stick to their usual diet as much as possible. You don’t want any tummy upsets while travelling!
Don’t forget a leash and collar with a pet identity tag attached with your contact details, so that if your dog gets lost, they can be easily identified by authorities.
Of course, poo bags are a must, along with a poo bag holder.
Prepare your dog for the trip by feeding them a light meal and giving them a walk before departure. This will help reduce motion sickness and anxiety.
Carry some of their favourite toys or treats with you so they have something to do on the long journey. Another great addition to bring with you is your dog’s favourite bed. Having bedding that smells familiar may help your buddy cope with any travel related anxieties whilst being away from home. If your dog is crate trained, bringing a crate or a pen along can also be useful to keep them safe and contained when you can’t supervise them. The WeatherBeeta Memory Foam dog bed is super lightweight and portable, making it ideal to take with you on travels. It’s also great as a comfortable crate mat.
When you reach your destination, make sure you know the contact details and directions to the closest vet in case of an emergency. Allow your dog time to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings and encourage them to have a relaxing sniff and explore. A fun walk to explore your exciting new holiday spot would also be beneficial for both humans and dogs, and a chance to stretch your legs after a long drive!
If you’re fully prepared, a holiday with your dog makes for the best memories. Time spent with your best friend is the most precious gift you could give them. Sharing a vacation is a great way to bond with your dog and enjoy new experiences together. Whether you’re heading to a pet-friendly getaway, a holiday home, visiting relatives, or out camping – don’t forget your dog is just happy to be with you. It’s your responsibility to ensure you keep them safe, comfortable, and their needs met.
At WeatherBeeta, we’re here to help you create amazing memories with your four legged friends! Check out our great range of products for dogs, horses and yourself. Our friendly team is here to provide assistance and recommendations with our products. Call 03 9845 0600 between the hours of 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, or contact us online.
