Tips for your next road trip

Summer has definitely arrived, and many of you are already planning your next big trip. If you haven’t already taken a weekend excursion or two! =)

For some, the next trip means a flight and time away from your four-legged family members, but for others, this means road tripping! For the former, obviously we’d love for you to take Spotwag for a spin… as many of you already have! But for the latter, we thought a few quick tips could help you prepare for your next road trip. 

Before you leave…

  • Consider getting an identification tag with your dog’s name, your name and phone number on it (cell phone makes most sense, given you’ll be on the road and away from home if something happens). A microchip is great, and recommended, but a tag is super simple and should be used in addition to a microchip. It could save a lot of worry should the unforeseen happen.
  • Also consider purchasing a dog first aid kit. This is an inexpensive, though potentially invaluable tool to have in case of emergencies or minor mishaps.
  • Make sure your dog is up to date on all vaccinations. Plan for a vet visit if there is any question on vaccinations or your dog’s general well-being. 

The day of…

  • Remember the necessities: food (enough for your entire trip), water (especially for while on the road), dog dishes, leash, snacks, a favorite toy or two, plastic bags for bathroom duty, a dog first aid kit (especially handy for camping trips… ticks are no joke), and maybe an extra towel for wet or dirty paws. Don’t forget any medications your dog may be on as well.
  • And consider a doggie seat belt harness. Not only could it save your dog from serious injury in the case of a sudden stop or unavoidable collision, but it can also add comfort to their trip. Balance is one of your dog’s best friends, and a harness can help them find it in a bouncing car. 

On the road…

  • It’s easy for your dog to over heat in the car, so be sure to keep the car cool and well ventilated along the road.
  • Never leave your dog unattended in the car, even in the shade with the window cracked open. On a hot day, your car can become a furnace in minutes!!
  • Be sure to stop every 2-3 hours for potty breaks, and give your dog ample opportunity to lap up some water.

And last, but certainly not least, HAVE FUN!!

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If you have any other tips, tricks or recommendations you’d like to share from your own experiences on the road, we’d love to hear them!