Instructions
Safety First
Start with deciding if your dog will be in a collar or a harness. Many dogs are very excitable and have been known to wriggle out of a collar at roadside stops. A halter fits over the chest and abdomen and secures the dog; he won't be wriggling out of a halter.
Consider where your dog will ride, in the back seat or in front with you. If you have a dog that is a "hugger" and wants to sit close to you, place a barrier between you and the passenger seat. A dog hugging you on a cross-country trip is dangerous for both of you.
Buy a doggie seat belt or special bed for small dogs; the beds hook into existing seat belts and allow the dog to see out the windows. The special bed is a type of platform bed and is available online.
Keep the leash handy for rest stops but do not keep your dog on a leash while driving cross-country. The leash can get tangled in gearshift knobs, between seats and on arm rests.
Crating your dog may be a good idea if the crate is large enough for the dog to move freely.
Make a Pet Travel Kit
Bring your dogs favorite dog food and snacks, preferably in pouches. Make sure you have enough for the whole drive.
Buy plastic containers with tight fitting lids, keep water in one while driving. Keep doggie treats in another and use them for a food and water dish when you have stopped for the night.
Stock plenty of water from home, stored in plastic jugs.
Bring any pet medications your dog may need, include any important health information in case of emergency.
Remember to bring comfort items for your dog, a favorite toy or blanket will help calm him.
Food and Water
Take plenty of water for your dog, at least a quart per day. If your dog is larger, then take more. Fill plastic jugs with water and keep the jugs handy and not in your trunk.
Buy several plastic containers with tight fitting lids. Fill one of them half way with water to offer while you are driving. Use the tight fitting lid to stop the water from spilling as you drive.
Offer your dog water frequently, it is more important to keep the dog hydrated than worry about food. Offer fresh water when possible at a rest stop.
Feed your dog at the end of the day when you have stopped at a motel. Keep to his normal foods, however if your dog has an upset stomach from traveling, he may refuse to eat. If the dog refuses to eat, do not force him. You may try to feed him some people food, like a plain hamburger.
Rest Stops and Bathroom Breaks
Stop at least every four hours for a bathroom break for both you and your dog, depending on how much water your dog is drinking.
Walk the dog away from cars and traffic, keeping a firm grip on the leash at all times.
Wait until other dogs and owners have left the pet walk area if your dog is not well socialized.
Plan Ahead for Pet Friendly Motels
Find listings for pet friendly motels for each section of your cross-country trip and print them out. Keep them with your map.
Make reservations when you know you will be arriving in a certain area on a certain day.
Check the map to see if the motel chain has another motel at your next planned stop. If so, the motel can make the reservations.
Ask other motels if pets are allowed, if you find yourself unable to drive to the next pet friendly motel. Most will allow pets for an extra charge.
Try to reserve a ground floor room, this makes it so much easier to walk your dog when necessary.
How to Drive Cross Country With a Dog
Driving cross-country with your dog can be quite an adventure. From where to stay overnight, to how often you should stop, make plans for a more pleasurable trip.