Undoubtedly, you must have considered leaving your fur baby behind while you hit the road. But you must have thought it over that it will be better to bring her along. If this is your puppy’s first time on a road trip with you, it will surely be a unique experience for both of you.
Getting your puppy ready for a road trip may not be as simple as scooping your puppy and off to your destination. You are up for some detailed preparations before departing or your trip will not be smooth-sailing as you want it to be. To make that happen, here are some great ideas:
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Inform Your Vet
Before reaching your destination, you will be passing through many places first. This can expose your pet to some health hazards like Lyme disease. By going to the vet for a checkup before departing, you will be updating your pet’s vaccinations and know your puppy’s present health condition. You can also ask the vet for some additional tips to make the trip hazard-free for your pet. If you are staying at your destination for a longer period of time, it helps to get a reference from your vet to an animal doctor in the place you are going.
Plan Early
By planning ahead, you will be assured of a hassle-free trip for both of you and your puppy. If you have a scheduled appointment at your destination, make it a point to start early so that you will not be rushing throughout your trip. With your dog with you, you may have to take breaks in between. Spot cool and dog-friendly attractions or scenic spots along the way, enjoy the view and take a walk for a few minutes. It will surely be a refreshing experience.
Update Yourself of the Weather
Be sure that you are traveling with your dog on the finest day. Your puppy may not be able to last a long trip with closed windows and not having breaks in between because of stormy weather. The same thing with you. For sure, you cannot be confined with your dog and its waste for more than five minutes. To prevent this to happen, you should update yourself on the weather days before your departure. You may have to make adjustments to avoid stormy weather.
Search for Pet-Friendly Accommodations
There are many benefits why you should search in advance for pet-friendly accommodations and facilities present in the place you will be headed for. Besides making sure that you will be able to find a pet-friendly facility, you will be able to choose affordable but quality accommodation. There may also be some discounts that you can avail of.
Look and Arrange for Dog Care Services
Included in your search should be dog care services. If you have an appointment to make, you need a dog daycare facility to drop your puppy while attending your business in the city. From there, you can also know grooming services and dog walkers. You need to do this as leaving your dog unattended in a new territory will surely be a scary experience for your dear little pup.
Crate Your Puppy
Whether it is a long-distance or short road trip, placing your puppy in a safety-certified crate is always the best thing to do. This will not only ensure safety for both of you, but it will also be more comfortable for your dog, especially if you are traveling long-distance. Your puppy will also have a familiar place to sleep when you are in your accommodation.
Pack All Your Dog Needs
Pack in advance so that you will not forget anything important. When the day of your departure comes, you only have to check if you forgot a thing or two. Separate a bag for your dog’s needs. This way, it will be easier to check.
Update Your Puppy’s ID
When in a new place, updating the ID of your puppy is something that you should never forget to do. Be sure that it has your new contact number. If you know of someone in the area, it may be better to include the contact number of your friend or relative in the ID. If none, your accommodation’s number may suffice.
While traveling, it is best that you maintain your routine. This cannot be the time that all the training that your dog has undergone will all go to waste. Be consistent while trying to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable time for you and your fur baby away from the usual environment of your home.
