If you plan to take your dog on a road trip, you must keep a few things in mind to ensure their safety. Keep reading this post by K&K Oil and Lube in Clermont to learn more about driving with a pet.

Like every summer, you're probably itching to take a few days off, hop in your car and head out on a road trip. Whether you want to explore the wonders of the sunshine state or plan to cross the country to visit family or friends; one thing is for sure: your road trip will be much more fun and memorable if you bring good company, someone eager to explore new places with you, a loyal, lovable, furry friend; in other words, your dog. If you like the idea of taking a canine companion on your trip, you should consider the necessary preparations to keep your pup comfortable, safe and happy along the way. If you want to know the best tips for driving with a pet, keep reading this post by K&K Oil and Lube.

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Consider These Tips When Driving With a Pet

Schedule a Routine Checkup With the Vet

Taking your dog to the vet is extremely important to ensure they are healthy and ready to travel. The veterinarian will perform a routine checkup and blood work to verify that your dog is adequately microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, and able to withstand travel conditions. Once your veterinarian approves of taking your dog on a trip, inform them about the places you plan to visit. This way, your veterinarian can immunize your pet against viral, bacterial, or fungal infections to which your pup could be exposed during the trip. Upon completion of the checkup, your veterinarian will provide you with health certificates and the dog's medical history. That said, keep and bring this documentation with you on the trip as you may need it in case your pet becomes ill or has a medical emergency along the way.

Get Your Dog Used to the Car

Your vehicle is full of smells, sounds, and movements that could make your dog uncomfortable; therefore, we suggest you take your pet for practice rides to get them used to the vehicle's environment. You can start by encouraging your dog to hop into the backseat to play with you or get treats while your car is off and its doors are open. Once your dog gets in and out of the vehicle comfortably, take them on short drives around the city and to the park, so they will start associating positive experiences with the car.

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Pack Your Pet's Essentials

Packing is a key step in planning a road trip with your dog, so we recommend making a checklist of all the things your pet might need along the way. Here are some of the items that should not be missing:

• Their usual food and medication.
• Bowls to drink water and eat.
• Their bedding.
• A travel cage or carrier.
• Collar.
• Harness.
• Garbage bags.
• Grooming items (brush, shampoo, cleaning wipes).

In addition to the above, you should include your dog's health and vaccination certificates in the suitcase. Finally, bring toys that will keep your pup busy and entertained during the several hours of the trip, such as puzzles with treats inside or rugs to lick.

Exercise Your Dog Before Leaving

If your dog is active and energetic, take them out for a run, walk or play an hour or two before leaving for the trip; after all, exercise will prevent them from falling into boredom or anxiety behaviors such as panting or licking the car upholstery during the journey. Overall, discharging energy will help them spend the first hours of the trip relaxed and even wanting to take a nap in their crate.

Take Frequent Breaks

If your trip is going to be long, remember to make regular stops. Ideally, you should take a 15-minute break every two hours for your dog to walk around, release some energy, stretch their legs, drink water, and relieve themselves. Even if you feel fine and can continue driving, you must take these breaks to keep your dog comfortable, hydrated, and happy for the trip.

Keep Your Dog Cool Inside Your Car

Finally, keep your pet well hydrated and at a safe temperature during the trip. As you may know, dogs regulate their body temperature by panting; therefore, be alert to your dog's behavior to provide water and turn on the air conditioning if they start panting. Another thing you can do is to place a cooling mat over your pet's bed if the temperature rises above 80 or 85°F since a higher temperature can cause dogs a heat stroke.

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