Travelling with our four-legged companions is often a joyous experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. They’re not exactly fans of long road trips, which is why they often fidget and get anxious. To create a safe, comfortable and stress-free environment for your canine friends when driving, you need a specific list of accessories.
It doesn’t matter if you’re planning on going camping with your dog or taking a short drive – being properly equipped and ready for potential accidents is an essential part of travelling. Even if you think your pet should stay home, don’t forget to get some items in case of an unexpected trip.
What to Bring for Dog When Travelling?
While some breeds have more specific needs, there are a few items that every pet parent should have in the back of their car. Not only can they make the trip more enjoyable for your pup, but they can also keep them safe.
Pet Seat Covers
If you’ve ever tried to clean a car seat after your pup has had its way with it, you know how tricky and time-consuming it can be. Those random stray hairs, mud and dirt are just too hard to get rid of. That’s why getting waterproof and multi-functional seat covers for pets will not only keep your car interior clean but also provide extra comfort for your canine companion.
Most models have adjustable straps that attach to the back of the seat, providing a secure and snug fit. They’re normally made from a stain-resistant and ultra-durable fabric that will shield your car from dirt, pet hair and other messes. All you have to do is use the hook and loop fasteners to position it on the seat and your pup is ready to hit the road.
Another handy feature of seat covers for pets is that they can also protect your pet from the sun’s UV rays, as well as keep them cool during hot days. While canines are inherently resistant to heat, having additional protection and better ventilation even when you have your windows open is an effective way to keep them safe.
Plus, they normally have two or more storage pockets on either side, so you can easily access your pup’s toys, snacks and other items. Their easy set-up and convenient design make them essential for long road trips with your canine friend. Not to mention the piped edges on the seat covers will help contain dirt, fur and debris from getting scattered around your car. And you’ll be glad to know that many of them are machine-washable, which makes cleaning a breeze.
Folding Pet Ramp and Steps
Getting in and out of cars can be quite a challenge for elderly or disabled canines. That’s why investing in a folding pet ramp and steps can be an excellent solution for pet parents who want to make sure their pup doesn’t hurt itself. These ramps, usually made from non-slip rubber or plastic, are lightweight and easy to store. All you have to do is uncurl them and position them against your car. Depending on the model, they may come with a handle for easy portability and carrying or have adjustable lengths so you can use them in different vehicles.
In terms of materials, they’re usually made of heavy-duty aluminium, but there are some more lightweight options like the ones made from plastic. They may also feature side rails to add a layer of safety and extra stability when your pup is walking up them.
The top part of the ramp may also be adjustable, so you can adjust it to different heights according to your pet’s needs. Plus, some versions are designed with a ridged surface so that your pup won’t lose its footing or slide on them. Even if they’re mostly used for cars, they can also be used to access beds, couches or other places with a high elevation.
If you need more information on which type fits your needs, you can always check out a pet store or browse pet websites. There’s a wide variety of options available for each breed, size and medical condition, so take some time to browse through them and you’ll surely find one that suits your needs.
Safety Harness or Other Restraining Tools
Nobody likes to be restrained, and this goes for our pup pals as well. That’s why having a safety harness on hand is essential when driving with your canine friend. It’ll keep them secure and safe in the back seat without affecting their comfort. Most of these harnesses have adjustable straps that allow you to fit them to your pup’s size, while others feature a seat belt attachment that plugs into the car. This system helps keep pets in place and reduces movement, making it easy for them to relax without any distractions.
If you’re looking for a simpler and more affordable solution, restraining tools such as dog travel crates are also very effective. They prevent your pup from escaping and can also play a role in reducing the amount of distractions when travelling. Plus, they’re perfect for those who don’t like having their canine friend on their laps!
Collar with ID Tag
Although it’s essential to have your pup’s collar with you on any trip, it’s especially important when taking a car ride. Usually, collars come with ID tags that provide valuable information such as the contact information of their owners in case they get lost. That way, you can rest assured knowing that if something unexpected happens, your furry friend will end up in good hands.
Collapsible Food Bowls and Water Dishes
When travelling with your pup, having some collapsible food bowls and water dishes can be an excellent way to keep them hydrated and well-nourished during the journey. They don’t take up too much space in the back seat and are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours. Some pet stores offer specialised car travel bowls that feature suction cups or other types of adhesives so you can easily attach them to the interior of your vehicle’s door or window. That way, you’ll be able to access them quickly and use them for snacks or small meals.
Poop Bags or Litter Box
Nobody likes a smelly car ride and no one wants to get stuck in heavy traffic with their pup’s mess all over the place. That’s why having some poop bags or a litter box is a must when travelling with your canine friend. Poop bags are usually made from biodegradable materials that quickly decompose. They’re perfect for those who don’t want to leave a trace of their pup’s messes behind. Meanwhile, litter boxes are ideal if you want your pup to be able to go on the road without creating any chaos in the car.
Dog Toys and Accessories
Travelling with your pooch can be as fun as it is stressful. To make sure they don’t get bored on the road, having some dog toys or other accessories can come in handy. Not only will this help keep them entertained, but it’ll also give you more peace of mind knowing that they’re not getting too rowdy in the back seat.
From interactive toys to treat-dispensing balls, there’s a wide variety of pet-friendly options available on the market. Not to mention that some dog accessories, such as chew toys and blankets, can help keep your pup comfortable during long trips.