Tips for Smooth and Safe Car Trips with Your Pet

Before You Leave

If you're planning a long drive, then practice by taking short trips several weeks before you leave to get your pet comfortable with the car. Gradually lengthen his time in the vehicle so he'll be ready when it's time for the big journey. You also get a chance to observe your pet's general reaction to car travel. If he's alarmed, anxious, or carsick, you'll want to know ahead of time.
Packing the right supplies is also key to a successful trip. Before leaving, gather your animal's veterinary records and put them in the car so they'll be handy should any problems arise mid-trip. Also, prepare a pet travel kit with plenty of food, water, a bowl, grooming supplies, medication and first aid, and a favorite toy or pillow to remind him of home.

Travel Safely

Although it can be tempting to let your furry friend sit shotgun, the safest way to transport a pet is in the back seat in either a harness or a carrier attached to your vehicle's seat belt. Make sure the carrier is well ventilated and large enough for your pet to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around in. This is safer for you as it prevents distractions, and it protects your pet and the other passengers if you're involved in a collision.

Make sure your animal stays completely inside the car. He may enjoy sticking his head out the window and feeling the rush of the wind, but he risks being struck by road debris or other flying objects. He could also be severely injured if you're in an accident or need to stop suddenly.

Keep Your Pet Comfortable

When you're on a road trip, AAA recommends that you stop every two hours to take a break and stretch your legs, and the same guidelines should apply to animals. Pulling over for a break gives your animals a chance to release pent-up energy and freshens everyone for the rest of the journey. Plan to stop at a place where your pet can run around a bit, answer the call of nature, and have a drink. It's best not to let your animal eat mid-trip and never in a moving vehicle, as this could cause carsickness. Instead, feed your pet a light meal three to four hours before you leave.

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Take Extra Precautions

Before you depart, place a second tag on your dog's collar, listing your name, phone number, and the address where you'll be staying. If the unthinkable happens and you become separated from your pet en route, this increases the chance that you'll be contacted. When you arrive at your destination, put your pet on a leash before opening the car door. Pets can become a bit disoriented during travel, and even the most obedient animals are prone to bolt simply because they're out of sorts.

No matter where you go or how far the distance, never leave an animal in a parked car, even if the windows are partially open. When the weather is mild, the temperature inside a car can still rise well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of minutes, putting any animals inside at risk for a heatstroke or death. In cold weather, animals can experience hypothermia. Additionally, unattended animals can be stolen.

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