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Whether it is a road trip you’re planning, a nice vacay, or even a business meeting a few hour’s drive away, you probably can’t imagine doing it without your beloved furry friend. Your pet is part of your life. Being on the road can really take a toll on him or her. In fact, road trips and pets can be trickier to handle than you might expect.
Your vehicle becomes your pet’s traveling home each time you put them in the car. There are things you need to consider and do before you haul your pet along with you.
To make sure things go smoothly, here’s a bit of help. Read on to discover some simple and actionable tips to prep your vehicle and get it ready before you get your pet in and head off!
4 Tips to Prep your Vehicle Before you Load in your Pets
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Prep Your Vehicle Before You Load In Your Pets
When you drive your car, you need to keep it stocked with things you will need while on the road. You can stop for some things like fresh water and pit stops, but things that your pet will need while in your car may not be at that stop.
From cargo spaces to trunks, windows, and seats, your car has a lot to offer and protect from pets. Keep things in your car comfortable and prepared for anything unexpected and then you have the perfect Pet transport.
Make it Soft – Save Your Car Seats
The first and most important step to get your vehicle ready is to make the seats soft and comfy for your pet. Not only will this be easier on your furry friend, but it’ll also protect your car seats from damage.
What do you do to make it soft? Use a simple old towel or thick bed sheet you don’t really have to get that fancy seat cover. Of course, you can always purchase a car seat cover.
If you’re getting a crate or a carrier along, make sure it has a soft mesh, and is large enough for your pet to lie down, side and move around a bit in. Don’t forget to put a soft blanket inside the carrier too.
Carry a Traveling Kit
A traveling kit complete with all the essentials your pet needs is another must, and your car must have one in it at all times, no matter what! What do you put into this car kit for pet travel?
Make sure to pack your pets travel papers. The papers that say he/she has the rabies shot. This way, if you need any help no one will hesitate (like a vet etc).
Don’t forget pet food, a bowl, drinking water, some plastic bags, basic grooming supplies, basic medications, a first aid kit, a pillow, and your pet’s favorite toys. Additionally, I suggest carrying along with some cleaning supplies such as wipes, paper towels and an extra towel- just in case!
Mind the Car Windows
If you’ve got power windows, make sure you keep them locked before you travel with your pet, especially if you have a dog. Have you ever worried when you see others driving down the street with a dog’s head hanging out?
Remember, that dogs tend to be overly enthusiast and there’s always a risk of him jumping out the window and getting hurt. Allowing your pet to stick their head out of the window during a road trip may seem fun, but make sure that’s only for a short time. There’s always also a risk of him getting hurt by any flying debris.
Keep the car windows cracked (as long it is not raining) and let them sniff the fresh air, they love that!
Get Restraint Ready
One of the most crucial elements of getting your car ready for a trip with your pet is to think carefully about the restraint. If you’ve got a pet dog or cat, you can consider having him in the backseat with its harness attached to the seat buckle.
If your vehicle has cargo space, like in Jeeps or minivans, or SUVs, use that space for a place to let your pets enjoy in their cargo carrier. It’s a great space and you can also put down a pad, just in case.
Allowing your pet a free reign in the vehicle may seem ideal, but it could significantly up the risk of an accident or your pet getting injured. Don’t be that person with the dog on your lap. When you need to make a critical turn or stop, you may not be able to engage.
Also, if you do engage, and it goes wrong, the dog will go flying and get harmed. Think safety first. If you want to give your pet the best car ride, consider making frequent pit stops and allowing him to stretch and move around for a bit in the open can work better.
Lastly, make sure you carry your pet’s medical records and identification and your own contact details and have it on a tag secured tightly to your pet’s leash, for a ‘just in case’ situation!
Now you are ready to take your pet on the road with you. It’s always a good day for a car ride with your best animal friend! ~ Dana XO
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