Taking your dog on a road trip can be a fun, memorable experience as long as you keep them safe and comfortable in the car. Keep reading this post by Ken Reaser Enterprises in Apopka for tips on driving with a pet.

As the holiday season approaches, you may be planning to see family and friends back in your hometown. And although hitting the road is super fun, it may be difficult to leave home if you have a pet. Of course, you could leave your furry friend in the care of a friend or at a pet boarding facility, yet, you know no one will take better care of them than you. So, the best option is to take them on a road trip with you! But first, you must consider a few things to ensure the trip will be comfortable and safe for your dog. That said, here's a list of tips for driving with a pet safely.

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Top Tips for Driving with a Pet

First, Book a Veterinary Check-up

Start by scheduling a veterinary check-up a few weeks before setting off. Doing so will help ensure your pet is in good health for traveling. To that end, inform the vet about your trip and ask if your dog needs extra immunizations. Likewise, ask for medication to treat your pup if they get motion sickness or anxiety in the car. Another good idea is to ask your vet for your dog's medical records so you can bring them with you on your trip, just in case.

Choose the Right Restraint System

The next step is to pick the right restraint system for your canine best friend. For instance, let's say your dog is a puppy or small breed; in that case, it would be better to secure them in a large crate. But, if your dog is a large breed, it's best to use a pet seat belt to secure them. In any case, choosing the right system will make a big difference in the safety and comfort of your pet.

Take Practice Trips

If your dog is not used to your vehicle's smells, sounds, and movements, take a few test rides before the trip. Failure to do so could cause your pet to become frightened or stressed in the car. So, start with this training by playing with your dog in the car's back seat, keeping all the doors open. Also, show them the travel crate or pet seat belt you will use to secure them. Once they are more relaxed inside the car, take them for short rides. That way, they become accustomed to the engine's noise and the car's movement. Don't forget to reward their good behavior with snacks!

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Pack Everything Your Pet Needs

Packing your dog's essentials will make the trip more fun and comfortable for them and less stressful for you. So, pack licking mats and toys to keep your dog busy on the road. Also, keep their shampoo, brush, wipes, and other grooming items just in case. Don't forget to bring their food and water bowls, medications, a harness, a leash, and plastic bags.

Take Frequent Stops

Your pet will need breaks to walk, drink water, relieve themselves, and stretch their legs. Thus, be sure to make frequent stops, even if you're in a hurry to get to your destination. A good rule of thumb is to take 15-minute breaks every two hours to keep your dog from getting stressed or anxious.

Keep Your Pet Comfortable and Cool

Finally, keep your car's cabin ventilated and at a safe temperature for your dog (between 50 and 70 degrees). To do this, keep the windows open or use the air conditioner. You can even place a cooling mat over your dog's bed for them to lie over during hot days on the road. Also, be sure to offer water at every stop to keep your dog hydrated.

Keeping on top of your car's maintenance is key to driving with a pet in a fun, safe way. For advice on what products to use during your vehicle's preventative maintenance, call Ken Reaser Enterprises in Apopka at (321) 230-6958 or visit AMSOIL's online store.