Over the river and through the woods…

In just a few short hours, me, John, Emmett, Lucas, and Cooper will pile in the car for our drive to Maryland to spend the holiday. It’s a long drive; with all the extra stops for the dogs it takes about 12 hours. Luckily, we were able to trade cars so that they won’t have to be wedged in the backseat of our little 4-door like this:

Instead, we borrowed an SUV with a big open back. While the setup isn’t conducive to  harnesses, I’ve been thinking about everything we need to do to ensure that the drive is both safe and tolerable for all involved!

• With the middle row of seats folded down, the middle is lower than the window line while being nestled between the front seats and the back row bench. Emmett and Lucas will have their big-boy beds next to each other in that lowered area, and Cooper’s crate will be behind them.
• All of our stuff will be in the way back, behind the bench so that there’s no chance of shifting stuff hitting the boys.
• We have collapsible, spill-proof water bowls at the ready.
• We will make frequent stops, ideally at off-highway areas with grass nearby. Last time we did this drive, we took turns sprinting them in laps around the parking lot to help keep them moving and tired throughout the day – and all that running helped keep us awake and alert, too!
• Lucas tends to get anxious in the car for long stretches, so I bought some calming treats that have worked for him in the past.
• I packed them a bunch of toys, including a few brand new toys, just to keep them busy and occupied.

So that’s the plan! All of you who travel with your pets: Am I missing or forgetting anything? Do you have any tips to make a long drive easier, safer, or more tolerable?