9 Safety Tips for Traveling with your Dog

"Who wants to go for a ride in the car?"

I am sure several sets of ears perked up when they heard that question! 

It's a doggie dog world out there and what dog wouldn't want to go explore it?  I love going on a road trip with Ma and Daddy-dog whether we are just going to the park or a friend's house or we are going on one of our camping adventures.  No dog wants to be left behind and miss all the fun.

With that in mind, and since it is Safety Week here in Blogville, I would like to share some Travel Safety Tips so that your road trip adventures are both fun and safe.

9 Safety Tips for Traveling

Don't end up in the Doghouse.

Wherever you are going (hotel, campsite, park, etc), make sure they allow pets before you set off on your trip. 

Don't be sick as a dog.

Be sure you have had a check up and all necessary vaccinations before you leave.  Some veterinarians will even give you a Health Certificate as proof you are up-to-date on all your vaccinations.

Don't go chasing your own tail.

Always know where to find the closest veterinarian/animal hospital to your destination as accidents can happen.  A great resource is the AVMA’s MyVeterinarian.com, where you can search Vets by zip code or city/state. 

Do have your name all over it.

Be sure to have an accurate ID tag with your name, address and phone number in case you get lost.  If you are microchipped, remember to keep your registration information updated.

Do stay on a short leash.

Remember to be properly restrained while in the car.  I use my safety harness which attaches to the child safety restraints provided in the back seat of the car.  You can read more about my harness HERE. 

You can also be in a carrier so long as it is appropriately sized so you can lie down, stand up and turn around, but not so big that could get thrown around in case of sudden stops or a collision.  There are several kinds of carriers; I have written about one pet carrier HERE.

Do see a man about a dog...or two.

Frequent stops on road trips are a must!  Everyone needs an opportunity to do their business, stretch and mentally exercise by checking out their surroundings.

Have a dog's breakfast...and lunch and dinner.

Whenever you make a pit stop be sure to drink plenty of water.  Pack plenty of water and food for your trip and try to keep your feeding schedule close to normal.

Get in the picture.

Make sure your humans have a recent picture of you in their wallet or on their phone, so if you get lost, they can easily use the picture to help find you.

Have a memory like an elephant.

Don’t forget to bring your medications with you including any flea and tick preventatives if you will be gone for an extended time.

Can you think of any more Travel Safety Tips?  

Don't forget, Blogville is talking Safety all week.  

Be sure to visit all the other great bloggers in the hop!