How to Make Your Dogs More Comfortable on a Long Road Trip

Most dogs love going in the car, sometimes more than they like arriving at a destination ̵1; particularly if it̵7;s the veterinarian̵7;s office. Long road trips are exciting times for dogs, and they will enjoy such a trip more if they are comfortable in the vehicle. Typically your dogs will be excited for the first half-hour of a long road trip, after which they will probably go to sleep and awaken only when you stop the car. Prepare your dogs' travel kit with care, including their veterinary papers, food and water bowls, leashes, and plastic bags for cleaning up after them.

  1. Take Dog Beds

    • Your dog will be more comfortable if he travels with his regular bed. The feasibility of this depends on the type of vehicle you use, however, and the size of the dog's bed. Most hatchbacks have rear seats that fold down to make the back section of the car one big space. Stow your dog̵7;s regular crate in this area; the dog will be able to see through the window, enjoy the breeze if you open a window a crack, and travel in the comfort of his own bed. For tiny dogs, a booster seat strapped onto the back of the rear seat will give the dog a comfortable ride with a view.

    Use a Hammock

    • If you have a large dog and are unable to take its regular bed on the road trip, an insulated hammock-style cover for the rear seat will keep the upholstery clean while allowing the dog to snuggle into it. Commercially available hammock seat covers have loops that hook over the seats to prevent a dog from slipping behind the front seats. Waterproof seat covers help in the case of accidents, while thermal ones keep a dog warm with his own body heat. Secure the dog with a pet harness or seat belt to protect him in the event of a car accident.

    Stop for Breaks

    • Make frequent stops for your dog to do his business, so he doesn̵7;t spend portions of the trip with the discomfort of a full bladder. Stop at least every four hours if your dog is young, and every two hours if he is more than seven years old. Choose a safe area where you can pull off the road well away from other cars, or take an exit and drive to a deserted, grassy spot. Keep your dog on the leash at all times to prevent him from being startled in unfamiliar surroundings.

    Offer Light Refreshments

    • Avoid feeding the dog for three hours before the start of the trip. At each rest stop, offer the dog water after he has relieved himself. This will prevent him from becoming dehydrated and will help him to rest easily during the trip. Avoid feeding the dog heavy or unfamiliar foods, which might make him nauseous. Instead, offer him light snacks of foods to which he is accustomed, such as baked dog treats, dry kibble or dog biscuits.

    Control the Temperature

    • Never leave your dog in a car alone. Not only could the dog be stolen, but he cold succumb to heat or extreme cold. The temperature changes rapidly in a stationary car; it could become dangerously high or low within minutes. While you are traveling, try to maintain a stable temperature that is not too hot for your dog. For dogs with thin, flat hair coats, keep them warm either by using the car̵7;s heater or by placing a hot water bottle wrapped in a thick towel under their bedding.