With so many shoppers at Prestige Imports having families of their own, the large majority of buyers at our dealership are also dog-owners. This can present a particular problem when we are taking longer trips, but it’s one that we’ve managed to solve quite well. So, what are the best tips for traveling with a dog in the vehicle? Here are five tips that we’ve found the most helpful.
5 Tips for Traveling with a Dog in the Car
Make a Travel Kit for your Dog
Whenever you’re taking your dog on a longer trip, you’ll certainly have some items that are essential for your four-legged friend. Get a canvas bag, and place the following items in it: a leash, a tupperware with food, bowls, plastic bags, any medications that your dog is taking, and a toy or pillow that your dog is familiar with.
Get Your Dog Used to the Car
Dogs are rarely good travelers right off the bat, so taking a few trips around town will make your pet a better traveler in the long run. Get your dog acclimated to a ride in in the car, and he or she will fare better when longer trips come along.
Read More: Five Tips for Improving Your Fuel Economy
Get a Sturdy Kennel
Dogs such as the one in the photo above look like they enjoy trips in the car, but letting your dog wander freely around the car can actually be quite unsafe. If you slam on the brakes, for example, your dog becomes a large, furry projectile. So, keep a kennel that is large enough for your dog to stand upright, and secure it in the back of your vehicle.
Read More: Common Signs of Transmission Trouble
Give Your Dog Food and Exercise Before Travel
If you have the time, give your dog a full feeding three or more hours before you plan to leave. This allows the food to settle, making your dog more comfortable. It also helps to give your dog some exercise beforehand, as this will make him or her more likely to relax during your trip.
Roll Up the Windows
Again, to reference the dog above: yes, it’s adorable to watch your dog’s ears as they flop in the wind. However, you don’t want your dog’s head outside the window at highway speeds. They may get debris in their eyes, or could potentially damage their ears from the friction of high winds.
We hope that these tips will help you next time that you’re traveling with your dog, and that you’ll come see us soon at Prestige Imports!
