How to Prepare For Your First Road Trip With Your Pet

Travel Tips for Road Trips with Pets

Going on a road trip with your pet can be fun and exciting. However, it can also be difficult to keep your pet content on long car rides. At The Village Vet in Baltimore, MD, our veterinarian can help. Here are some tips on how to prepare for pet road trips.

Update Your Records

Check in with our veterinarian first. Make sure your pet has a clean bill of health before traveling. Update any tags, microchips, and any other contact information. Also, get copies of any vaccination records.

Create a Designated Space

Don't stuff your car so tight that pets must squeeze between bags. Provide enough space to lay down comfortably. The more room available, the better behaved your animal companion will be.

Pack the Essentials

Food, water, toys, and a blanket are all must-haves for pet road trips. Feeding bowls are ideal for the backseat. Your pet will need access to regular water, even on the drive.

Make Regular Bathroom Stops

If your dog is eating and drinking, it will also need to use the bathroom. Frequent stops are necessary. Our veterinarian recommends pulling over every four to six hours.

Bring a Crate

Crates keep pets safe in strange environments. When staying at hotels, a collapsible crate will come in handy without taking up extra space in the car. Like your backseat, make this space feel at home and inviting.

Know Restrictions at Locations

Never assume a place is dog-friendly. Research destination-specific regulations before taking off. If you do want to visit a restricted site, look up reviews for kennels and doggie daycare. You can also find local dog parks, trails, and beaches in most areas.

Perform a Test Run

Build up to long drives. Start with small, short trips for practice. This will help your pet get acclimated to riding and give you the opportunity to study its behaviors and patterns.

Visit Our Veterinarian in Baltimore, MD for Pet Travel Tips

Pet road trips can be fun adventures, but they require planning. At The Village Vet in Baltimore, MD, our team will help you prepare for traveling with pets. Call us today to schedule an appointment.