The longest days of the year are here and with the warmer and sunnier weather just around the corner (yes, it is coming!), we are getting excited to plan our summer adventures with our favourite pawls.
As we make our summer's to-do list, we know it wouldn't be complete if it doesn't include a dog-friendly road trip. Because let's admit it: a road trip is another great excuse to spend some extra time with our furry friend. Whether it’s an overnight escape, a weekend getaway, or a road trip to the mountains or the beach, you need to make sure you pack all the essentials you need to ensure a great trip for both you and your furbaby.
Before we dive into details on what to bring on your dog-friendly road trip, there's a few things to keep it mind:
- Choose a dog-friendly route
- Pick a dog-friendly destination
- Prepare your pet for travel
- Make sure your pet's ID is up to date
- Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and shots and keeping vital information about your dog’s health on your phone
- Be prepared for emergencies
Read more: Planning a Summer Road Trip with Dog
Read more: Tips for Travelling Safely with Your Pets
If the dog-friendly town of Whistler in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia is up your alley, make sure to check out our Local's Guide to Pet-Friendly Whistler for lists of pet-friendly hotels, dog-friendly hiking trails, dog-friendly businesses, pet stores, and more!
We're GIVING AWAY a Summer Road Trip Ready bundle! Enter here to win.
Without further ado, here's our Dog-Friendly Road Trip Essentials List:
Dog-friendly road trip essentials
Dog food
Your dog’s food will bring comfort and familiar things you can pack. Measure out enough dog food for the entire trip plus at least another few days worth of food just in case. Keep in mind that some dogs eat less when in unfamiliar places.
Favourite treats
What’s a road trip without some good snacks? Bringing a nutritious and rewarding treat can be used as a great incentive for a long trip.
Water and refillable water bottle
Your dog will require a lot of fresh water daily. Make sure you bring enough for both of you and refill as needed during your stops.
Food and water bowls
Collar with ID tags
It is essential that your dog has up-to-date identifications in case you both get separated while on your trip. If your dog isn’t microchipped, putting this on your list of things to do before you leave will give you some peace of mind. Also, if your dog is microchipped, make sure the information is current.
Leash
Vet’s phone number, a pre-check of vet clinics & hospitals available along the route and at destination
Make sure to look up a few veterinary clinics and hospitals along your route and at destination, in case you need vet support on the road. Also, keep the phone number for ASPCA poison control or the Pet Poison Control hotline in your emergency numbers.
Vaccination records
Keeping vital information about your dog’s health on your phone, can save you from trying to track this down on the fly.
Medications/supplements
If your dog is on any medications, make sure you have an adequate supply for the trip.
Dog first aid kit
Mishaps happen, whether it is a cut, a broken bone, an allergic reaction, or even just overexertion. Make sure you bring a pet first-aid kit with the supplies you need in case of emergency.
Poop bags and pouches
You know what's cool? Picking up your dog's poo. Okay, maybe not literally but certainly figuratively. If you’re doing a lot of walking or taking adventures, it’s handy to have a pouch to hold the poop bags.
Favourite toy and/or blankie
A new location may be overwhelming for your dog, so bringing a little comfort from home can help your furbaby feel secure and happy.
Other Essential Items to Consider
- Collapsible crate – Because some dogs spend plenty of time in a crate at home, this may be a good option when taking a road trip.
- Car seat – Car travel for small dogs can be stressful. A car seat can help secure them and reduce the movements in the car and prevent injuries.
- Car harness – For a safer journey, a harness limits the amount of space that they will roam in the car.
- Flea remover – These inexpensive tools may be a life saver, especially if you are not close to a pet store and may be dog road trip essentials you may not have thought of.
- Towel – For the muddy and wet paws!
- Dog bed –
- Life vest with handle – Not all dogs can swim. Consider packing a life vest for trips to the beach.
- Soft muzzle – Even the very sweetest dog may act out if in pain or traumatized. A soft cloth muzzle will protect your dog.
- Extra leash – Have a couple of leashes on hand for times when one gets lost or misplaced.
- Sanitizer mist –
- Hair brush – Shedding and matting never take a vacation!
- Dog shampoo and conditioner – If you’re traveling to a beach, lake, or any destination where your dog is going to get wet, a paw rinse or a full-blown bath may be part of the adventure.
