Summer is peak season for travel, and if you’re like us, you probably take your furry friends along with you from time to time. But traveling – with or without your pet – can be a very stressful time. We have put together a short list of helpful road trip travel tips to ensure your time away from home goes as smoothly as possible!

1. DOUBLE CHECK THAT YOUR PET IS MICROCHIPPED AND WEARING HER COLLAR

Chances of your pet going missing increase dramatically anytime you leave your home. And truth be told, if your pet finds him/herself in a new environment they may get scared, try to escape to return home, and get lost.  So think of his/her collar, ID tag, and microchipping as your insurance policy! If they get out they are more likely to be safely returned to you.

2. PLAN FOR A SAFE, SECURE, AND COMFORTABLE TRIP

Does your pet do best in a crate or carrier?  Have you tested out a car pet-harness?  Make sure the travel environement you create for your pet is safe, properly ventilated, and that they are securely fastened! Your crate should be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. Larger pets may do well in the back seat, but be sure they can’t walk up front and cause a driving hazard! Kriser’s has many different car travel options to help with small, medium or large dogs, and of course picky and not-so-picky kittys!

3. BUILD YOUR PET TRAVEL KIT

The essentials should be put into a seperate pet bag to allow for easy access when you’re on the road. Never forget to pack your travel water bowl, bottled water, treats, food, poop bags and any medication they regularly need. If your pet loves a particular toy you may want to bring that along for the car ride to help keep them relaxed.

Depending on where you are traveling to, or how long your trip may be, you may want to pack a first-aid kit and include pet speciality items, a groom-brush, or flea comb, or anti-anxiety supplements like PetReleaf’s CBD oil or even a Thundershirt. Don’t forget to pack a blanket so they can get comfortable.

4. PLAN TO TAKE IN MORE BREAKS & REST STOPS

Bathroom breaks are essential because no one likes an accident in the car.  But traveling with your pet should be fun for them too! Take a look at your travel route – are there any pet-friendly parks along the way? What about pet-friendly hikes, vista points, or big open fields? We’re sure they would love to get out, sniff around, and explore along the way too!

5. NEVER LEAVE YOUR ANIMAL ALONE IN A PARKED CAR

The temperature in a parked vehicle can rise faster than you’d expect, causing them to get dehydrated a lot faster, and it could lead to even bigger problems. Check out our infographic from last month for all the details. If you’re traveling alone this one might be tough. If you need to grab some dinner look for a drive-thru or call your order into a restaurant and let them know they need to bring it out to the car for you.  It may be a slight hassle, but it’s so important for your animals safety.

Pay close attention to their eating and drinking habits and their general state of being. Most of all, remember to have fun on your road trip! Your dog or cat will love the experience and the break from their usual day!