Dog Transportation

We take our dogs everywhere, whether we are running a quick errand to the store, cruising around town or heading on a week long vacation. However transporting your dog can be tricky and complicated depending on the circumstances. How do you go about it in a manner that is comfortable for you and your dog? Take a look at our simple guide to travelling with your dog.

Short Trips

If you are the type of owner who loves to take your dog everywhere you need to consider your options about how to take your dog with you. Some pet owners love to have their dog in the car with them, either on their lap or riding as a passenger. If you are the type of person that loves to have your dog close you as you drive, you need to take a safe approach.

Luckily for you there is a huge line of dog car seats that can put your dog in a safe position very close by.

 

Carriers can range from small cargo baskets that either sit or are strapped up between your front seats. To large car seat covers that allow your large breed dogs full range of movement in your back or middle seat. Carriers are a safe way to transport your dog because they give you and your pup a defined area of movement and that allows you to be close without distracting each other

Far to many accidents are caused each year when dogs are allowed to sit on owners laps. This will allow you to pet your pup without distraction. Also large covers can keep your dog in a comfortable position without damaging the interior of your car. If your dog loves the freedom of riding in the back of your car or truck make sure he or she is properly trained to stay in safe positions.

Bumps on the road fast starts or stops can jar even an expert dog away from safety. Properly trained dogs can ride in the back of your car or truck safely for long distances, but this is a technique that you want to practice early and often on a local short trip basis before setting out for longer trips. Also keep in mind that dogs are much more likely to overheat when exposed to direct sunlight or when left in a hot car. Take proper precautions to make sure your dog is safe and cool when traveling  in your car or in the back of a truck. However if you are taking a medium sized trip consider an alternative option.

Road Trips With Your Dog

Road trips are as rich of a family tradition as owning a dog. So taking your dog with you is easy and fun with a little bit of planning. 1. Know what rules and regulations may impact your trip. Some hotels do not allow for pets to stay in rooms or on the premises.  However there are sites all over the internet that can help you identify hotels that do allow dogs. 2. Utilize rest stops frequently so that your k9 can exercise and relieve themselves. Over time your dog will become more accustomed to long rides and will modify their need to relieve themselves based on their needs. Often first time road trips are new, scary and exciting and your dog will not relieve themselves as frequently as when at home. Make sure that while traveling long distances your dog is properly hydrated with appropriate amounts of food and water. Road trips with your dog can transform the way you travel for the better. We enjoy stopping regularly at rest stops that we would normally just pass by. Rest areas and pull away areas are often beautiful and interesting. Take time to enjoy them to their fullest. 3. Proper transportation equipment is essential with medium sized trips. Choose a carrier that is outfitted properly for the season. Some carriers are insulated and designed for travel during the winter.   Others are very open designed to let as much air in as your dog will need to keep cool.

 

 

Steer clear of  carriers that do not offer proper ventilation or are too small for your breed of dog. You want your dog to be comfortable in multiple positions which will allow your dog to stretch re-position and enjoy the ride as much as possible. Remember that road trips with your dog can be an exciting new way to travel, with a little bit of planning and a few accessories you and your dog will be prepared to hit the open road.

Flying With Your Dog

Long distance travel takes special planning. Airlines and airports are designed better now for flying with your dog than ever. Every airline has special requirements and restrictions when it comes to flying. This is when research is key! Make sure you have an airline approved carrier or kennel. Make arrangements with the airline according to your needs and plan extra time for getting your pet settled. Some dogs are allowed on on flights as carried on items, however do not assume that just because you have a small breed of dog that it will be allowed as a carrier one. Study out the rules and regulations and take your pet jet setting wherever you please.