Sponsored post: Safe driving guide for you and your pooch
No one likes to leave their dog at home, so why not take them with you? There are a variety of accessories out there designed to make sure that you and your pooch have a safe, comfortable journey. Embarking on a road trip with your pet can be exciting, but having them in the back can, equally, be very distracting. Take a look at this guide from Izzy at UK-based company, PassSmart, on how to keep you and your pooch safe on the road.
Take plenty of breaks
Before you set off, make sure your dog has had a chance to stretch their legs, because you don’t want them to get too restless in the back. Take regular breaks, and, if possible, let them off the lead. Make sure they go to the toilet while you’re stopped, and before you get back on the road, give them a drink of water. Make sure you’ve got plenty of water with you, especially if it’s a hot day, to keep them hydrated.
Plus, you’ll need to stretch your legs too!
Keep them securely in their seat
It may be tempting to have them ride in the passenger seat next to you, especially if it’s just you and them in the car, but you should avoid this. To make sure your dog is safe and secure, you can buy a dog guard. For smaller dogs, you could also buy them a crate or carrier to travel in. You could even get your pooch a doggy seat belt. The car harness comes in different sizes to suit every dog’s needs, and provides another way of keeping your dog safe in the back.
Make sure their carrier is well ventilated and is spacious enough to keep them comfy. Familiarize them with the carrier before your trip, in order to show them it’s nothing to be afraid of. You could pack their favorite toy in there with them to help them get used to it.
Don’t leave them in the car
We all know the dangers of leaving a pet alone in the car. If you’re getting out for a long period of time, take them out with you. Otherwise, you could buy a car window vent, which keeps your car secure, whilst ensuring the vehicle is ventilated. This is especially important on hot days, when your dog could become dangerously dehydrated if left.
All heads in windows, please!
Your pooch might love riding with his head out of the window, but this is dangerous for a number of reasons. Not only is there a chance he or she could be hit by something, but it may be distracting to you, and other drivers.
To keep you both safe, you need to have your eyes on the road, but making sure that they’re OK could divert your attention. This is why knowing they’re safe in their carrier is so important.
Supplies, supplies, supplies
We’ve already looked at how crucial taking plenty of water with you is, but don’t forget to take some treats, too! Give them their meal a couple of hours before you set off, to allow their stomach to settle before taking to the road. Avoid feeding your pooch whilst on the move, as this might upset their stomach and leave you with a bit of a mess to clean up!
Instead, take plenty of treats with you and feed them a couple when you take a break. Think of it as rewarding them for being such a good passenger!
Microchip
Your furry friend going missing is any pet owners worst nightmare. Make sure you’ve got your dog microchipped, as taking them to unfamiliar places may disorientate them. Keeping hold of their lead when you get them out of the car should ensure they can’t run off, however, getting them microchipped, just in case, is a good idea.
Vaccinations
Although you probably won’t be required to present them, it’s a good idea to take copies of your dog’s vaccination certificates if traveling through states. Keep them packed in with all your other documents, because it’s best to be on the safe side!
Finally, enjoy yourself and take plenty of photos for the family album!
This sponsored post was brought to you by Izzy Guarella. When she’s not hanging out with her dog, Zyggy, you can find her writing for PassSmart.com.
Editor’s note: The is a paid, sponsored post. Posts like these help keep OMD! up and running.
Thanks for the timely article especially right before the holidays. Sam will be glad I read the article…