Many pet owners love their pets so much that they feel guilty, leaving them behind when going on a trip. As a result, it is not surprising that many people love to travel with their pets, which is a terrific idea. However, it would be best if you had top-level preparation to survive a trip with your pet.
Photo by Egor Gordeev on Unsplash
Going on a journey with the pet provides a beautiful opportunity to see an entirely different side of your pet. You get to observe the excitement on their face as they explore the new environment and interact with new people and other pets.
When in a strange environment, having our furry friend by our side can also be comforting. However, one needs to observe some basic guidelines and precautions when going on a trip with a pet. This article will shed light on five essential tips to keep your pet safe when going on a road trip.
1. Practice Before the Journey
We recommend trying some behavioral training techniques for people with dogs that get anxious when the car ride seems exhausting. This involves taking short road trips that will result in them having a positive experience before the actual road trip. Hopping on the car all of a sudden on a long-distance journey with your pet might not be a sweet experience for the parties involved. Your practice should not be limited to a ride to the vet. Get them to go with you to the dog park or grocery shop to get dog treats. With this, your dog can associate driving with something positive.
These are essential steps you can take to get them used to long-distance trips before the actual journey. Make sure to allow them to sit where they would love to, sir. Invest in a reliable pet carrier and make sure she spends time inside it. This practice can help condition her for the road trip.
2. Pack only Essentials
Without a doubt, your dog will need basic things on the trip. We recommend only necessities and other things to make life comfortable for them and easier for you while traveling. Make sure to get her treats, toys, medicines, water, feeding bowls, and other essential supplies for the trip.
For people traveling with pets, be sure to buy roof rack stores before planning such a road trip. They will go a long way to keep all necessary stuff of your pet on the trip. Also, try to have a waist pack to prevent littering your vehicle.
Photo by Emerson Peters on Unsplash
3. Keep Your Pets Entertained
Even humans get bored when stuck in a place for a long time. Hence, it should not come as a surprise that your pet will be bored when restricted to the vehicle for long. This could lead to an energetic and restless dog. You can combat this situation by making sure that your pet has a favorite and familiar toy handy. Having something to play with or chew on will distract her from the stress of the journey.
You can even play soft music to relieve her from stress if she gets anxious from the trip. Make sure to take occasional breaks and consider activities that will wear her out. Try going for a run, fetching games, tug-of-war sessions, etc. The idea is to wear her out so she will be calm by the time you continue the trip.
4. Prepare For Emergencies
We all do not plan for bad occurrences, but they occur at times. This is why planning for emergencies will go a long way in preventing issues while on the trip. You need a first aid accessory to take care of allergies, injuries, bruises, etc. In case your pet eats something that triggers an allergy, Benadryl will come in handy. If she eats something and you need to induce vomiting, give her hydrogen peroxide.
Your first aid kit does not have to be elaborate as simple accessories like gloves, medical tape, disinfectant, gauze, cotton wool, etc., will help. A Red Cross app on your mobile can give you an essential tip to take care of minor pet injuries.
5. Secure Your Pet While on the Road
It is a terrible idea to let your pet roam free in your vehicle while you drive. She could easily jump on your lap, catching you unawares, which could cause injury. This is a hazard to the pet and humans in the vehicle. Should you leave your pet free, they could easily escape if you leave them alone, which could cause unnecessary stress for you in the middle of nowhere.
As a result, make sure to use a special harness to secure a dog, or you can use a tether that attaches to the seat belt. Like cats, hedgehogs, etc., small animals should be securely housed in a crate while on the trip. With this carrier, they cannot roam around, reducing the possibility of getting under the driver's feet, which could cause an accident.
Photo by Florencia Viadana on Unsplash
Conclusion
You and your pet can have a good time together on the journey. It is a matter of the level of preparation you made for the trip. Here are tested safety tips that will go a long way to ensure the pet and driver's safety while on a trip.