The UK ‘staycation’ is the favoured option in 2021 for a lot of people wanting a bit of a break away, and with such a rise in pet-friendly accomodation, it’s even better for our dogs to come along and enjoy the ride.
For some dogs it may mean travelling in a car a bit longer than usual and so we asked Kimberley Bolton, Co-Founder of Travfurler, the Online Travel Pet Shop, to share a few tips on ensuring your dog has a safe and happy road trip.
1. Practice.
For first-time roadtrippin’ pups, practice being in the car without setting off as much as possible.
Let them move around and familiarise themselves with the space, smells and sounds.
Slowly phase in louder sounds such as the radio, windows moving and finally the engine starting up. Reward good behaviour lots and allow them time to adjust to each new sound, especially the sensation of the engine before buckling them in and setting off.
Once they’re comfortable slowly phase in small trips. The more practice you can squeeze in on short journey’s going to exciting places such as new walks or to see family/friends and playdates the more your pup will associate the journey as being fun and exciting therefore setting them up perfectly for looking forward to journey’s in the car.
If you find your dog is struggling don’t be alarmed as the car can be a scary place! There are lots of dog calming products and anti-sickness options to give your travel buddy a little boost.
2. Create a safe space.
Creating a safe space will vary depending on the size of your dog and vehicle so can be achieved in a number of ways such as beds, covers, booster seats and crates.
The ultimate aim is for your pet to be used to going into the same area over and over again and feeling comfortable within it that it becomes their safe space within the vehicle.
A good starting point, just like with settling a puppy at home is to use clothing with your scent on, familiar toys and/or music. It’s also important to create a safe space in the case of any troubles on the road.
Under UK regulations pet’s must be restrained when in a moving vehicle to prevent distraction to the driver. Adjustable safety belts work for a range of pet’s, but to go the extra mile for safety look into a purpose built car crate or a safety tested car harness to keep your fur baby protected as best as possible.
3. Exercise before journeys
This doesn’t always have to be physical exercise if you’re pushed for time and instead can be mental stimulation which is ideal if you’re in a rush.
For example whilst packing try hiding some broken up HundEnergy Bar pieces around the house for your dog to sniff out or a LickiMat to keep them busy whilst you load-up the vehicle or as a last resort a long-lasting chew can keep them busy whilst you fuel up or make a snack stop. By wearing out their body and mind a dog will not only feel tired but a lot more relaxed meaning they should settle quicker and enjoy some snoozies whilst on the road!
4. Watch the temperature!
It’s sometimes easy to forget just how different temperature affects our dog’s, especially in the warmer months. Being huddled up in a vehicle in the mid-day sun can quickly heat up a car, especially in stand-still traffic which can be dangerous in itself but have you considered how the air flow circulates in your vehicle? Especially to where your dog is secured in. For example, having the front windows open might feel great for you, but what about the temperature in the back of the vehicle where your dog is? Packing their safe space with the correct temperature control equipment is essential. In summer opt for cooling mats, vests or bandanas as well as window vent guards to allow fresh air to circulate without risk of them sticking their nose out! In winter think of blankets, heat pads and cosy jumpers or coats. Finally across the whole year a temperature alarm can be a great monitoring system for spaces where your pet might be riding such as motorhomes and campervans.
5. Take regular breaks.
One of the most talked-about must do’s when travelling with a dog and it’s easy to see why. Not only will your adventure buddy need the toilet more than you, but boredom and/or stiff joints can set in on longer journey’s.
So where possible stop-off often and enjoy a slower pace of travel. Rest stops can be great fun with short walks and playtime, especially if you can plan to be at an interesting place during the break. Even lots of service stations have dog friendly areas these days so you’re bound to bump into other canine travfurlers!
Just don’t forget your mucky pup essentials such as drying mitts, towel-off shampoo and seat covers to keep the muddy paws at bay whilst on-the-go.
Are you heading off on your travels with your dog in tow this summer? Don’t forget to share your snaps with us and tag us using @hundenergy and @travfurler !
