Taking Your Dog on Vacation | If you’re anything like us here at Dope Dog, you want to take your canine companion everywhere with you. Pack your dog's essentials for a safe and comfy trip—pet-friendly hotels, road trips, camping. Ensure their comfort on the journey.
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Here are the must-haves you should pack when taking your dog on vacation.
The Ultimate List of What to Bring for Your Dog on Vacation
1.Plenty of Food and Water
One of the most important things to bring for your dog when going on vacation is plenty of water and enough kibble or wet food to last the entire trip. Of course, it’s a fun trip with your furry friend, so you’ll probably be sharing some snacks with them along the way, but it’s best to try to stick to their regular diet as much as possible to prevent stomach issues. We like to bring along collapsible water dishes—it makes it easy to make a quick stop and let them lap up some water!
2. Their Collar, Tags, and Leash
Many of us let our dogs off-leash, especially in more remote areas, but you should be wary of doing so when you take breaks at places like a rest stop. It’s better to play it safe and keep their collar and leash on at all times when they aren’t in the car—it’s easy for your pup to get excited in a new place, and you don’t want to be chasing them around a crowded area, especially when rest stops usually have lots of traffic! It’s also super important to ensure that your pup has their tags on with your contact information in case they do happen to get lost.
3.Their Vaccination Records
No matter where you’re traveling to, you should also plan to bring along your pup’s vaccination records. It’s even more important if you’re crossing an international border, but you should bring their records whether you’re traveling 100 miles or 1,000 in case of an emergency. If you end up needing to board your dog at a new kennel anytime during the trip, you’ll likely have to present that paperwork before they will allow your pup to stay for the day. | Taking Your Dog on Vacation
4.Something to Help Them Relax
Many dogs get anxious when their routine changes. To ease your pup's anxiety in new situations or when traveling, prioritize their comfort and take necessary measures. While a calming voice and cuddles can help with small bouts of anxiety, sometimes your pup may need additional support. If you know your dog will be anxious during the trip, consider bringing some CBD supplements to help relieve their anxiety when they start to feel nervous or when they can’t seem to relax during a long car ride.
Looking for a natural and safe way to relieve your dog’s travel anxiety? Check out these options from Dope Dog!
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5.Safety Restraints for the Car Ride
It’s never a bad idea to add some extra safety features when traveling with your pup in the car, and in some states, it’s required by law for you to secure them in the vehicle with a seat belt. The best option is an attachment that clips their harness into the seat belt, but according to the AKC, keeping your dog in their crate during a car ride is a great option, too. | Taking Your Dog on Vacation
6.Blankets and Seat Covers
Even if your dog isn't shedding at the moment, extended car rides can still leave your seats looking messy. Consider using seat covers to keep them in good condition. Keep your car clean and fur-free by using seat covers to protect it from your dog's shedding during car rides.
Even the most active dogs will need a break from watching out the window and being your co-pilot—naptime is inevitable. Help them stay cozy by bringing along some comfy blankets for them to curl up in!
7.Doggy First Aid Supplies
Be prepared for minor injuries during your road trip by having a first aid kit, either prepackaged or self-assembled. Safety first! Don't forget a first aid kit, especially for remote or outdoor adventures during your travel. Safety is key! You should include things like tweezers, gauze bandages, antiseptic wipes, eye wash, scissors, and styptic powder.
8. Their Bed and Crate
Create a familiar space for your dog by bringing their bed and crate during travel—comfort and coziness on the go! They’ll appreciate the familiar smell and sense of security that they associate with their bed. Transporting their crate ensures a designated safe space for your dog, preventing unwanted behaviors on furniture during your travels. These items are especially important for older dogs with joint discomfort or dogs that get anxious away from home.
9.Dog Waste Baggies
While we’re used to packing doggie waste bags wherever we go, they’re also extremely easy to forget. Don't forget to bring waste bags for your pup's potty breaks during the trip and at your destination. Pack extra—they don’t take up much room and are a necessity!
10. Their Favorite Toys and Treats
Your pup would never forgive you if you forgot their favorite toys and treats on the road! When you take your dog to new places, they can get overwhelmed by all the smells, people, and new things; bringing their treats allows you to reward them for good behavior. Pack your pup's favorite toys to keep them entertained and ensure a fun-filled trip for both of you!
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CBD treats are a great way to reward your pup for good behavior while helping them feel less anxious and more relaxed—Find their new favorite!
