5 Things You Need for a Family Road Trip with Your Dog

Some families don’t just go together when taking trips - they choose to bring their pets along for the ride so the whole family can enjoy the trip! A dog-friendly vacation is possible as long as people know what to expect, and what to bring, to make it happen. So here are at least 5 Things You Need for a Family Road Trip with Your Dog!

A Dog Tracking Collar

Dogs can get away easily. No one wants to head hours away for a trip with their pet only to have him or her get lost in the process. A dog tracking collar will help, as it allows the owner to track their dog and find him easily without spending hours searching. 

A Dog-Friendly Hotel Reservation

Families with dogs in tow won’t be able to stay at just any hotel. They’ll need to make a reservation in advance with a dog-friendly location that allows pets on the premises. It will be easier to take the dog outside for a bathroom break if you’re staying in a lower level room close to an outside door. A simple search online can help people find a dog-friendly hotel with rooms available.

Be careful making reservations, though. To plan the perfect road trip for your family, you’ll want to be sure you find the best hotel destination for you. This may mean looking at a few options before selecting the best one. Say you’re in Miami, for example. A lot of locations have a parking fee, plus staying by the beach can already be costly, not to mention packed. It may be better to find a dog-friendly place near the airport if possible that’s more affordable.

Travel Friendly Dog Crate 

Designed for traveling, the Leisure soft-sided crate features a foldable construction frame that can be easily folded into an extra compact package. We love this dog crate, it's perfect for when I go visit my daughter and take my dogs with me!

This crate is available in four sizes to accommodate different breeds and sizes of pets. Choose from S (up to 35lbs), M (up to 50lbs), L (up to 70lbs), and XL (up to 90lbs) to find the perfect fit for your furry companion.

Available on Amazon.com.

Car Booster Seat for Dogs

Provide maximum protection and comfort in the front or back seat with this Pet Car Booster Seat.

Equipped with four different ways to secure your pet, it ensures they stay safe and secure while you focus on the road.

Available on Amazon.com.

Plenty of Pit Stops

Making a pit stop every once in a while for a potty break is key when you have kids. It’s even more important when you have a dog. Bathroom breaks need to happen often so the animal doesn’t have an accident in the car.

Consider the typical time frame for your pet to potty at home, and stop a little more often to give him the chance to go. An anxious dog may need to use the bathroom more often than usual while traveling. Don’t forget to clean after your dog everywhere you go.

A Portable Food and Water Dish

Dogs can’t stop for fast food like people can, but they do need to eat even while on the road. When making pit stops for potty breaks, be sure to offer your dog food and water as well. Water is especially important on a long trip, particularly if it takes place during warm weather months.

A portable food and water dish that is collapsible is best to take along because it can be kept in its collapsible form while on the road so it takes up less space. Simply pop it out and fill it up and it makes the perfect dish for on the go.

Your Pet’s Essential Items

Aside from a food and water dish, there are probably some essential items your pet uses regularly at home. Things like favorite toys and bedding should be brought along to help the dog feel more comfortable. It’s also important to bring medical records, vaccination certificates, a collar and leash, and any medications the dog may need to take.

A family vacation with a dog along for the ride can be a fun experience, but it can also be a tricky one. Planning for all possibilities and being prepared for them is the best way to make the most of the trip. Once everything is prepared, families and their dogs should be able to enjoy an exciting adventure in a new destination for some well-needed relaxation time.