“Dogs are one of the best travel companions that make road trips amazing,” says Ben Lowenstein, who always travels with his dog, Jovi. Ben has explored numerous road trips. From the snowbanks of Colorado and national parks of Utah to the serene trails of Mexico. “What has remained unchanged in my road trips is that I have never left behind Jovi,” Ben asserts.
Nevertheless, road trips with your dog come with challenges. In fact, it is an adventure in itself. Both the dog and the owner face certain challenges that make the road trip more adventurous and relatively difficult than solo traveling. With this in mind, we have collected 5 easy tips that will help you experience a memorable road trip with your dog.
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Tame & Teach Your Dog to Love the Process
“First thing first. Before taking your dog on a road trip, tame and teach him to love the process,” suggests Ben Lowenstein. He argues that unless your dog does not truly love the process and adventure of road trips, taking him on the road trip is not a good idea.
Practicing is an efficient way to teach your dog to love the process. Take him to local parks and drive him to new places. Practice alone will help you tame your dog in loving the process.
2. Comfortability is the Sole Key
As you kick off the road trip with your dog, make him as comfortable as possible. Give him extra attention and care for him as you progress on the road trip.
An easy way to make your dog comfortable throughout the journey could be to ventilate him frequently. Pheromones sprays, classical music, and surprise treats are other effective ways to keep your dog away from stress.
2. Have A Suitcase for Your Dog Resposnibly Packed
It is not unheard of that dogs need food and other stuffs to sustain the road trip with you. Ben asserts that he always brings food and water for three days extra. Apart from foods, the owner has to make sure to include first-aid kits, collars, comfy leashes, and vaccination records.
To have a memorable road trip with your dog, ensure to pack abundant food, water, and medications. Similarly, Ben also recommends water bawls for your dog, so he can drink water whenever needed. Some water bottles that are designed for hiking and are comfortable for drinking are also a good addition to your dog’s suitcase.
4. Spot Dog-Friendly Points Before the Trip
Dogs get exacerbated by long drives. That is why it is pertinent for the dog owner to locate dog-friendly spots before the trip. This means you should go with detailed and proper planning and do your research well before kicking off the trip.
5. Make the Safety of Your Dog A Priority
In long road trips, emergencies are likely to happen, and your dog may panic and pant around. So, you need to keep your dog’s safety as your topmost priority. First aid kits, anti-depression medication, and frequent ventilation are crucial to ensure your dog’s safety.