Dear Cathy,
I am traveling this summer with my dog Cash (as in Johnny). It’s the first time I have ever done this. I found hotels that accept dogs and dog-friendly places to stop along the way. But I wasn’t sure what I should do in the car to make his ride more comfortable. Should I bring a crate or his toys? I will be driving and traveling for about two weeks. Any suggestions? – Allene

Dear Allene,

How exciting that you are traveling with (Johnny) Cash this summer! It’s great to see how prepared you are by finding dog-friendly accommodations and places to visit. Traveling with a pet can be a wonderful experience, and with a bit of planning, you can make sure Cash is comfortable and happy on the road.

Here are 15 practical things you can do to ensure your dog’s vacation is fun.

1. Pre-Trip Vet Visit: Schedule a vet visit before your trip to ensure Cash is healthy and up to date on vaccinations and any necessary medications. Discuss your travel plans with the vet to get advice on preventing travel-related health issues such as anxiety, motion sickness, and parasite protection. Also, ask for a copy of Cash’s medical records to take with you in case of emergencies.
2. Make sure he has a current ID tag and is microchipped in case he gets lost.
3. Pack for your dog’s trip. 

• Bring portable food and water bowls. These are convenient for feeding Cash during breaks and keeping him hydrated. 
• Bring your dog’s food. Keeping the same diet will help prevent further digestive issues. 
• Bring water from home, if possible. This can help your dog avoid digestive issues like traveler’s diarrhea, which can sometimes be caused by a sudden change in water. 
• Bring along his bed or a comfortable mat for him to lie on during the car ride and at your destinations. Familiar bedding can help him feel at home. 
• Bring along his favorite toys, stuffed animals, or blanket. These familiar items can provide comfort and reduce anxiety. Even if he doesn’t play with them, having them around can be reassuring. 
• Pack a pet-specific first aid kit that includes items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any medications Cash might need. Knowing how to handle minor injuries can be very helpful. 
• Bring cleaning supplies, like paper towels, doggie bags, baggies, and carpet cleaner handy to clean up after him.

4. Keep a routine: Try to maintain Cash’s regular feeding and walking schedule as closely as possible. Consistency can help reduce stress and anxiety during the trip.
5. Take morning walks: Start each day with a 20-minute walk. This will help Cash burn off some energy, resulting in him napping for several hours in the car. This will make the car ride more peaceful.
6. Take frequent breaks: Plan to stop at dog-friendly rest areas a few times a day. These breaks should be about 10 to 15 minutes each, giving Cash a chance to stretch, relieve himself, and enjoy some fresh air. 
7. Bring the kennel if your dog is crate-trained: If Cash is crate-trained and the kennel fits in your car, it can be very useful. A kennel can keep him safe and reduce distractions while you’re driving. It’s also helpful for keeping him secure in hotel rooms if you need to leave him alone for a while. 
8. Keep your dog secure: In addition to a crate, consider a dog seat belt or harness that attaches to the car’s seat belt system. This can keep Cash safe and secure in case of sudden stops or accidents. It can be used to keep the kennel in place.
9. Be ready for car sickness: If Cash tends to get car sick, feed him lightly before the trip to prevent vomiting. There are car sickness remedies for dogs available over-the-counter, online, or through your veterinarian.
10. Never leave your dog alone in the car, especially in hot weather. Hot cars can quickly become deadly for pets due to the rapid buildup of heat, even on mild days. Even a few minutes in a hot car can lead to heatstroke or death for dogs, as they are particularly susceptible to overheating. It’s crucial to always prioritize their safety by never leaving them unattended in vehicles, ensuring they accompany you whenever you leave the car. Take him with you, even when checking into hotels.
11. Keep the temperature in the car comfortable: Ensure the car is at a comfortable temperature during your drive. Dogs can overheat quickly, so keep the air conditioning on during hot weather and avoid letting him stick his head out the window, as this can lead to eye injuries or ear infections.
12. Make time for more exercise and play when you stop for the night: Plan for some playtime and exercise at your stops. Interactive toys or a good game of fetch can help burn off energy and keep him happy.
13. Avoid loud and busy areas: Be cautious of areas with high traffic, loud noises, or other stressors that might overwhelm Cash and make him anxious. Look for quieter spots for breaks.
14. Double-check hotel or campground pet policies before arriving. Some hotels may have specific rules or restrictions regarding pets, and you don’t want to arrive unprepared.

Most of all, stay calm and positive throughout the trip to help keep Cash relaxed. Dogs can pick up on their owner’s emotions. By following these additional tips, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and Cash. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure together!

Send your pet tips, stories and questions to cathy@petpundit.com. You can read her blog, Animals Matter, at http://blog.mysanantonio.com/animals/. Cathy is the author of several children’s books.