Road Tripping with Your Small Dog? 8 Must-Knows Before You Go!

Taking a trip with your little dog can be a blast! They're great travel buddies, but you need to plan ahead. Here are eight important tips to make sure your adventure is fun for both of you.

Check Their Health

Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian before you pack. This is the most critical step. Your veterinarian is able to detect any issue that could ruin your travel. These can range from car sickness, pre-existing health issues, or travel anxiety.

Also, take copies of their vaccination records and health records. Most hotels, airlines, and several states demand that your dog is up to date with their vaccinations. These should be kept in a waterproof folder.

Small breeds often are car sick. Their smaller frames experience more difficulty with movement than big ones. If your dog is sick in the car, have a chat with your vet regarding medication. Sometimes, a change in their feeding schedule – like skipping breakfast on travel days – can work wonders.

Pack the Right Clothes

Think about the weather that you're traveling to. Small dogs can get cold very fast, so they need to be kept warm and cool.

If it's going to be chilly, bring warm coats, sweaters, and booties. Their paws are not made for snow and ice!

If it is hot, pack light, loose dog clothing to protect them from the sun and keep them cool. Light colors are ideal. And don't forget rain gear – a wet dog is an unhappy dog, and they can get cold even if it's not that cold outside.

Select the Proper Means of Transportation

Driving is the most common way to travel with pets, but safety is key. Use a secure carrier or a dog seat belt to keep your dog safe if you stop suddenly. Never let your dog sit on your lap while you're driving – it's dangerous.

Stop often. Your dog needs to pee, get fresh air, and stretch. Plot your route so it contains pet stops, and don't leave your dog alone in the car. It gets hotter inside quickly, even when it's not very warm outside.

Flying gets you farther, but it's more regulated. Carriers have dimensional limits, and not all airlines allow animals. Book ahead of time because most flights only allow a handful of pets. Flat-faced breeds may have breathing difficulties at high altitudes, so there may be extra regulations for them.

Find a Good Place to Stay

Not all "pet-friendly" hotels are alike. Some love dogs, while others simply tolerate pets Check it out and call ahead to find out what their policy is. Ask about pet charges, weight limits, and if they supply items such as dog beds or bowls.

Once you arrive, make your dog feel at ease with some of the home stuff. Their bed, toys, and an item which carries your smell on it will cause them to feel more at ease in a new place. Create a routine of bathroom breaks and stick to it. This will cause your dog to adjust sooner.

Make a Great Travel Kit

If you pack well, you can avoid problems. It's important to give your dog their regular food. If you're not home, changing their food all of a sudden can make them sick. Pack collapsible bowls to save space and bring extra food in case of delays.

Also, you need a good first-aid kit. Bring along antiseptic wipes, bandages, tweezers, and any normal medicine your dog needs. Don't forget to bring a lot of trash bags. You'll need more than you think, especially if your dog gets scared or excited while you're moving.

Check that your dog's ID is up-to-date and easy to read. There needs to be a collar with your current contact information on it, but a microchip is also a good idea in case they lose their collar. For extra safety in new places, you might also want to use a GPS tracker.

Be Polite in Public

When you're away, your dog might act differently. They may act in strange ways when they go to new places with lots of people, smells, and sounds. Even if your dog seems calm, you should always keep them on a leash.

Don't forget that not everyone loves dogs. Some people are scared or have allergies. Be polite, and don't let your dog approach people you don't know. If someone seems uncomfortable, give them space.

Hotel and restaurant owners ask that you keep your dog quiet. Excessive barking or whining that disturbs other guests could result in being asked to leave. Keep toys or treats handy to distract your dog if they become vocal.

Know Where You're Going

Every place has its own regulations regarding pets. Some cities permit dogs in shops and restaurants, others don't. Check local leash laws, breed bans, and pet-friendly businesses ahead of time.

Additionally, look up animal hospitals and emergency clinics in the local area. Save their numbers in your phone and write down the addresses in case your phone dies. Look up pet stores too – you might need to buy more food, toys, or other supplies while you're traveling.

Be Ready for Anything

Even with careful planning, unexpected situations can arise. The weather can change, your flight can be grounded, or your dog can eat something they shouldn't. Having backup plans in place can make it all less frustrating and ensure everyone's safety.

Think about where you can seek shelter at your destination. Be aware of where you can take refuge during a storm or where you can get help if your dog gets injured. Bring some cash along, as not all animal clinics take credit cards, especially in rural communities.

If you haven't done so, look into getting pet insurance. Veterinary care can be costly while away from home, and insurance can give you peace of mind. Even basic coverage can save a significant amount of money if an unexpected circumstance comes up.

Plan Your Pet-Friendly Trip Today!

Traveling with your small dog means you can both enjoy new things. It takes some extra planning, but it's worth it to share adventures with your best friend. Start with short trips to get comfortable, and then explore more together.