Summer Road Trips with Your Dog
There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road during the summer. Windows down, your favorite playlist on, and your loyal pup riding shotgun—it’s the perfect recipe for unforgettable memories. But traveling long distances with your dog takes more than tossing their leash in the back seat. Whether you’re heading to a national park, the beach, or a family reunion, making sure your dog is comfortable and safe is key to a successful summer road trip.
1. Plan Ahead for Pet-Friendly Stops
Before you even start packing the car, map out your route and identify dog-friendly stops along the way. Look for parks, rest areas with shaded spots, and even pet-friendly restaurants or coffee shops. Dogs need regular breaks to stretch, hydrate, and take bathroom breaks just like you do.
Pro tip: Use apps like BringFido or AllTrails to find dog-friendly locations and trails along your route.
2. Secure Your Dog Properly in the Car
Free-roaming dogs in the car are not just a distraction—they’re a danger to you and themselves. Invest in a high-quality dog seat belt, travel crate, or car seat to ensure your pup stays safe and secure during the ride. Crash-tested travel harnesses are a great option for dogs who like to sit up and look out the window.
3. Keep Your Dog Cool and Comfortable
July temperatures can soar quickly, especially in a parked vehicle. Never leave your dog in the car unattended, even with the windows cracked. Ensure the air conditioning is running during the drive, and consider using a cooling mat or vest for extra comfort.
Must-have travel items:
- Portable fan
- Sunshade for car windows
- Cooling collar or bandana
4. Pack a Dog Travel Kit
Being prepared for anything makes road tripping with a dog a breeze. Here’s a quick checklist of essentials to bring along:
- Collapsible food and water bowls
- Bottled water
- Dog food and treats
- Waste bags
- Medications and a basic pet first-aid kit
- Your dog’s medical records and ID tags
Don’t forget their favorite toy or blanket to help them feel at home on the road.
5. Accommodations Matter
Not all hotels or Airbnbs allow pets, so make sure your overnight stays are dog-friendly. Look for places with pet policies that suit your needs—some even offer fenced-in yards or on-site dog parks.
Tip: Always inform your host or hotel in advance that you’re bringing a dog to avoid surprises at check-in.
6. Don’t Forget Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Long car rides can lead to pent-up energy. Plan short hikes, play sessions, or games like fetch during breaks to keep your pup physically and mentally engaged. Puzzle toys or chew bones are great to keep them occupied in the car too.
7. Stay Safe and Have Fun
Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior for signs of stress, overheating, or motion sickness. Make sure your dog is microchipped and wearing an ID tag with your current contact info. Always leash them when outside the vehicle.
With the right preparation, your summer road trip can be just as fun for your dog as it is for you. After all, dogs love nothing more than being part of the adventure—especially when their favorite person is behind the wheel!