How to Travel by Car With a Dog

Traveling by car with your dog can be challenging, but plan for Murphy's Law and you will have all contingencies covered. If your dog loves to go for car rides, you're way ahead of the game. If not, take him for a few practice rides of varying length before setting off. Don't leave anything to chance. Anticipate problems and have a plan. That's what a good alpha dog would do.

  1. Before the Trip

    • Toss a few towels in the car in case you need them for quick cleanup.

      If you know your dog gets carsick, consult your vet for anti-nausea or antianxiety medication. If your trip involves overnight stays, pack a case for her and include food, water, bowls, prescription medications, favorite treats, a toy or two, grooming tools, pet wipes, some diphenydramine -- to use if she gets bitten by fire ants or runs into an allergen -- and her bed or, if her bed is too big, a blanket from home. Pack an extra leash as well. Your dog should already be microchipped and fitted with a collar bearing her name and your address and phone number; pack her innoculation certificate and any other health records you may need. Bring water from home and use bottled water otherwise.

    Planning Your Route

    • Don't leave your dog alone in a car.

      When planning your route, scope out places where you can rest and allow your dog to stretch his legs and answer the call of nature. Since he can't say "Dude, pull over at the next rest stop," you will have to anticipate stops along the way. Stopping about every two hours is a good schedule. Plan your trip so you never leave your dog in the car.

    Safety Issues

    • Crates, seat belt systems and barriers are all suitable means of traveling with a pet.

      If your dog is hyperactive, put him in a crate for the trip, for your safety as well as his. Some dogs feel more secure in a crate, which will keep your dog from bouncing around the car in an effort to relieve nervous energy, which presents a distraction for the driver. It's not guaranteed to keep him safe in the case of an accident, but it will keep him from flying across the passenger cabin. If your dog is not afraid of riding, you can invest in a canine restraint system or seat belt adapter for dogs. They are available in many styles, colors, sizes, prices and methods; using one is as important for your dog's safety as a seat belt is for you.

    Pet-Friendly Hotels

    • Find pet-friendly hotels ahead of time.

      If your travel involves an overnight stay, check ahead of time for pet-friendly hotels along your route, not just at a preplanned halfway mark. It may be necessary for you to pull into a hotel before, or after, you planned to do so. Some hotel chains, such as the Ritz Carlton, Hilton and other upscale chains allow dogs in all their properties. Red Roof and Motel 6 are national chain motels that allow dogs. Other chains allow dogs in some of their properties, so do a little research ahead of time and find out which hotels along your route accept dogs. Also, call the hotel directly, don't rely on website claims, as recent hotel management changes may affect policies.