Just like humans, dogs are also different. Some may love the idea of going on a long or short drive with you. While others will react with excessive aggressiveness at sight of the idea. Now if unfortunately, you are one of those pet parents who have a dog from the second category, being prepared and taking precautions for a long road trip is only thing to do.
There are certain tips and trick you can follow for resolving the situation. However, a few things are more like essentials that you need to seriously care about. What are those things you should be seriously pondering over when traveling with dogs in car long distance, let’s find out…?
Things to Care About When Traveling with Dogs in Car Long Distance.
Your attentiveness is not just necessary during trip, but also before the big event. Careful planning is the best way to tackle a dog prone to react in a negative way while long car drives. One thing you should be extra careful about is what to give a dog for a long road trip. Some think about sedatives, which has a very negative effect on a pet’s wellbeing. So, make sure to recheck with the vet before taking such steps. The other crucial matters are discussed below, keep on reading…
Make Your Dog Familiar with The Crate.
Most of us would want to carry our dog in a carrier or crate for both short and long journeys. However, if it happens all of a sudden, your dog may not feel very nice.
Making him comfortable with the crate and assuring them with your love can be really helpful. Those who have a pet barrier in their vehicle can bring a dog bed. So that he can lie on it as if it’s their home. The comfort of their usual bed can keep them relaxed during trip.
However, if you need to use the crate, make your dog trained to stay in it. Crate trained dogs are less likely to feel bad during a road journey. Another thing you can bring in place of a dog bed is any sweatshirt of yours. Or maybe a specific blanket that your dog is familiar with. The existence of such things can make your dog have a home feel. It might not be the most entertaining thing to them, but still, they’ll feel at least safe inside.
Carrying Your Dog’s Favorite Toys & Bringing Treats for Rewarding.
Spoiling your pet kid with lots of toys and treats is something we all are quite guilty of. However, during the car journey, you don’t have to be guilty. Instead, try showering the love more during this period.
Let your dog spend a good amount of time playing with the chewing toy. They can stay occupied for a long time. And of course, the thing keeping them busy will avoid any extra drama on street.
You can give them treats occasionally too. So that they can understand their doing something good. Some toys come with hollow on centers. Stuff some treats here. And watch your dog spending a few hours trying to get the tempting thing out.
Stopping from Time to Time.
When you are going on a long trip in a car with your dog, taking breaks every two hours is a must. Your pet needs his bathroom break just like you. Not to mention letting your dog do some exercise during the break. Allow him to move a bit and feel tired.
The remaining of journey will be passed easily as your dog will be taking rest. There are many spots you can find that are meant for dogs. Taking him for a walk is the best out of all. Maybe playing with another dog can also be an option.
Having Conversation with Your Pet Child.
Okay, this may sound weird, but trust me it helps. Your pet understands when you’re having a hard day, if you’re feeling sad or happy and quite a few emotions. And with that being said, they also understand when you call them by their name.
Pets feel very comforted when we call them. Try to have a conversation with them not just for the sake of a car journey, but in regular too. You want to repeatedly call your pet by his or her name while talking. The comforting sound of yours will make your pet calm a lot.
Accommodations That Are Dog Friendly.
Dogs are very likely to feel restless when they are out of their home element. Finding accommodation or a hotel that is pet friendly can be really helpful here. You can have a check on the internet if there’s any such spot to check-in that falls into your route.
Also, you too want to spend the night resting. Being awake because your dog is not feeling well could be a case too. And you want to avoid that. They being comfortable also means you can chill once the day is done.
Another good thing about pet-friendly hotels is that you can find your dog a playmate here. As there should be other dog owners checking in too. Giving your dog some company to play can be fun for them. They will be enjoying instead of feeling restless. Exactly what you want them to feel during a trip.
Wrap Up
And those were a few things that can help while traveling with dogs in car long distance. Being aware of some factors that can be problematic during the journey is a very thoughtful thing to do as a pet parent.
Along with these tips, you want to take your dog for a checkup. So that if your dog is not feeling well and can’t journey, you will be aware of the fact. The vet will prescribe medications in case your dog seems unwell during trip.
You should also be careful about packing stuff for your pet child. Bringing his essentials along with your own ones is very important. Sit down and you will find a lot of things like these coming into your mind that need some consideration before leaving for the trip. The more you can plan and prepare, better chances of having a trip without issues.
