There is nothing like a good road trip, especially when you are in good company. It is an even better experience if that company includes your furry friend. Traveling by yourself can be daunting, but it can also bring so many unique experiences that you may not have had if you were traveling with others. While traveling with your pet is a tad more difficult, it is a great time to bond with your pet, build companionship, as well as keep you company on long drives. I have learned several things going on long trips with my German shepherd, Max. So here are a few tips on how you can travel with your pets on a solo trip.
Accommodations and Activities
While it may seem like a silly step, it is VITAL that you triple check with your desired accommodations that they allow pets. Some may allow pets but have breed restrictions, or block out dates when pets aren’t allowed. This is why I always suggest triple-checking your accommodations before you arrive. Also, have a few activities that you know you and your furry friend can enjoy together. Your pet deserves a vacation too, so take them out to smell the new atmosphere. Find a few restaurants that are pet friendly or have a patio, that way wherever you are staying your pet isn’t always locked up while you go out and explore.
Keep Your Regular Schedule
Dogs and cats are creatures of habit, so you must keep them on your routine as much as possible. The last thing you want is to return home and your dog wants to eat dinner at 1 AM, I’m currently going through that very thing right now! This is also beneficial for those pets who may have a bit of anxiety and get nervous. Keeping a routine keeps their anxiety in check. You also don’t want to accidentally forget to take your pet out since you are busy in a new city. Taking your pup out during its normal time to potty is essential. Keeping to a routine may also help with your drive. Since your pet is probably accustomed to having a walk in the morning, and then laying down and napping during the day while you are away, they may just take a nap in the car if you start traveling in the morning. This is the perfect way to get your dog calm throughout your car ride.
Potty Breaks
Though it may be tempting to drive through the day or night without stopping, it may not be great for your dog. While most dogs are unlikely to have an accident in the car, and they could probably sit through an 8-12 hour trip, it is not good for their blatter on anxiety to do so. If you are driving, I like to map out rest stops that have dog parks or areas nearby That I can let my dog run and play in. Whether you are in a camper, van, or a regular car it is essential to provide your dog with an area to release some energy before getting back on the road. Just like we need to stretch our legs, pets need to stretch their legs as well.
Leaving Your Pet Alone
You may not always be able to have your pet with you on your adventure so you must know what to do with them when you leave. If you are in a vacation rental, Hotel, or whatever it may be, they may require you to create your pet upon leaving. Take into account that if your pet is not crate trained it could disturb others. And you don’t want that. If you are just stopping to grab a quick bite to eat or run into the grocery store make sure to leave your windows down if weather permits otherwise leave your car on. Don’t be gone for longer than 10 minutes as it could cause stress to your dog.
traveling with your pet is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. just as much as I like to get out and see the world and so does my dog and he has a wonderful partner in crime. We have taken many trips and learned many tips so we hope you find these helpful. Let us know how traveling with your pets goes. We hope to see you on the road someday.