How to travel with your dog to any climate
Pets are travelers too. Here's a few tips on how to make a road trip with pets easier on you and your furry friend.
There are several advantages to traveling with a pet. You save on kennel costs, you get to travel with the entire family, and you don't have to be distracted from a memorable trip by a longing for your furry friend. Even with these benefits, though, there are still some challenges that need to be faced. Instead of making it up as you go along, it's better to prepare before the trip. Here are some tips on traveling with your dog to any destination and in any weather.
Photo by Patrick Hendry
1. Stay abreast of any local weather changes
Weather can be fickle; it doesn't matter where you decide to take a vacation. Assuming that you're going to experience only rain or only sunshine on your trip could lead to poor packing decisions. Staying up-to-date on the latest weather patterns for the region will help you make the most informed decisions. There might not be a cloud in the sky in the morning, but rain clouds could move in out of nowhere. Knowing this will make it easier to keep you and your dog happy.
2. Pack items to keep your dog warm
Even though dogs have a thick layer of fur, it's not always enough to keep them warm. Although that new shirt looks adorable on Spot, it might not be enough to fight off that frigid air. If you're traveling to a colder destination to ski, hike, or enjoy the blankets of snow, make sure to pack items to keep your canine warm. Blankets, thermal sheets, and even doggy jackets work great. This is much easier if you're driving, but you might have to pack an extra bag if you're flying.
Photo by Treddy Chen
3. Help your pup stay hydrated
Between the time changes, transportation long-hauls, and lack of sleep, traveling can take a real toll on people. Although we're used to seeing our dogs as more resilient and tough, they're going to struggle with the same effects of travel. For this reason, it's important to keep them hydrated. If you can, pack a lot of water for the trip and take a doggy bowl to make it easier for your pup to drink. If that's not possible, be sure to find water sources while traveling. Most parks have water fountains, and even some shops put a bowl outside for window-shopping dogs.
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4. Keep sun exposure to a minimum
Humans aren't the only species that are sensitive to the sun. While you don't have to apply sunscreen on your pooch, it's always a good idea to limit the amount of direct exposure he/she has to the sun. The heat can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and a bad mood (something we humans understand well). Don't be fooled by places with colder weather, since sunlight can be even stronger when reflected off the snow. You don't have to go as far as buying doggy sunglasses or hats, but be sure to avoid prolonged exposure and find shade when it's available.
Photo by Hermes Rivera
5. Take a crate
Your dog may hate it, and you might feel like a supervillain, but having a crate while traveling can be a lifesaver. Whether you're taking a short-haul flight to a nearby location or driving across the country, a crate can make sure your dog remains safe, calm, and doesn't cause any damage. If you don't think your crate is up to the challenge, there are some specifically designed for travel. Travel crates typically lighter for you and more comfortable for the dog. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a travel crate:
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Sufficient ventilation
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Liquid-proof floor
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Big enough for your dog's size
Photo by Florencia Viadana
6. Give your dog enough breaks
Traveling for even a short amount of time can take a toll on the body. Cars aren't comfortable after a few hours, and planes always seem to get smaller. Considering how sedentary the average person is, it's tough to imagine how antsy your pooch would be after sitting still for so long. To help Spot keep his sanity and prevent any accidents, it's important to take as many breaks as necessary. If traveling by car, be sure to take advantage of regular rest stops. If you're flying, make sure to take your dog to a designated "release" area right before and right after the flight. If your vacation includes a hike or any other outdoor activity with the pup, it’s also important to be aware of the creepy crawlies that could hurt them.
Traveling with your dog can be a memorable and exciting experience. It all boils down to your preparation for the many challenges that the weather poses.
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