Everything To Know About Safely Traveling With a Puppy
Before You Leave, Everything To Know About Safely Traveling With a Puppy
1. Introduce Your Puppy to the Car
Cars can be intimidating for dogs when they’re not used to them. Start by introducing your puppy to the car well before taking him for a ride. Let him walk around, sniff the car, and get comfortable in his area. Once he seems settled, turn on the engine and observe his reaction. When he appears comfortable with the sound, take him for a short ride, praising and rewarding him for staying calm. Gradually increase the length of the trips to help him acclimate.
It’s crucial for your puppy to feel stable in the car. Soft seats can make puppies feel off balance. A solid floor or the trunk of an SUV often provides more stability. However, never place your puppy in a closed trunk, such as in a sedan, Everything To Know About Safely Traveling With a Puppy
2. Gather Your Gear
Ensure you have all the necessary items for your puppy:
Crate or dog barrier: This keeps your pet safely confined and provides stability during travel. Ensure the crate is large enough for your puppy to turn around and lie down.
Harness and dog seatbelt: Always use a harness with seatbelts, not a collar, to avoid neck injuries if your puppy slips.
Two leashes: A regular leash and a spare.
Collapsible water and food bowls
Poop bags
Baby wipes: For cleaning up accidents.
Food and treats
Toys
Blanket or bed
Pet first aid kit
Doggles: Dog goggles for eye protection.
For interstate and international travel, additional documentation like a health certificate is required. Check the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service information from the USDA well in advance, as obtaining the necessary documents can take time.
3. Have Up-To-Date ID
Ensure your dog’s name tag has current contact information and is securely attached. Verify that your puppy’s microchip details are up to date. This makes it easier for someone to contact you if your puppy gets lost.
4. Address Preventative Care
Discuss your travel plans with your veterinarian to ensure your puppy has all necessary vaccines and preventative medications. Different areas may have specific health risks, so it’s important to be prepared. This is crucial as some vaccines take time to become effective.
During Your Trip
1. Keep Your Puppy Safe
Restrain your puppy in a crate or with a dog harness seatbelt during car travel. This prevents instability and ensures safety in case of an accident. Puppy-proof your car to remove any potential hazards.
Do not let your dog stick his head out the window as it can cause eye injuries or lead to him slipping out of his harness. If your puppy tolerates them, dog goggles can offer protection.
2. Exercise Before Traveling
Exercise can help tire out your puppy, making him more likely to remain calm and sleep during the trip. A tired puppy is less likely to be anxious or restless.
3. Make Frequent Stops
Puppies need frequent potty breaks. Generally, they can hold their bladder for their age in months plus one hour. Plan to stop every two to three hours for bathroom breaks, leg stretches, and water breaks.
4. Manage Car Sickness
Car sickness is common in puppies but often improves with time. Signs include excessive drooling, whining, and vomiting. If these symptoms appear shortly after entering the car, it may be anxiety rather than motion sickness.
To alleviate car sickness:
Keep the car cool.
Open windows for fresh air.
Avoid feeding your puppy within two to three hours of travel.
Walk him before traveling to reduce anxiety.
Consult your vet about medications like Benadryl®, Meclizine, Dramamine, or Cerenia®.
5. Regulate the Temperature
Puppies are sensitive to temperature changes. Never leave your puppy alone in a car as it can quickly become too hot or cold. During summer, keep windows slightly open for airflow and use window shades to block direct sunlight. In winter, keep the heat on and provide a blanket to keep your puppy warm. Regularly check on him to ensure he is comfortable.
After You Arrive
When you reach your destination, help your puppy acclimate to the new environment. Walk him around the yard and the home or hotel room. Show him where his water and food bowls are, lay out his toys, and set up his crate to provide a familiar and safe sleeping area.
Inspect the new location for potential dangers, such as breaks in the fence. Keep him on a leash until he is familiar with the area.
While traveling with a puppy requires preparation, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Safe and smooth trips provide positive stimulation and strengthen your bond with your puppy, making for a fun and memorable journey.
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