7 Key Tips for Traveling Stress-Free With Your Dog

According to an American Pet Products Association survey, 37 percent of pet owners are traveling with their pets every year. That’s a 19 percent increase in the past decade.

More families are taking man’s best friend along for the ride. They’re also discovering the best methods for traveling stress-free—for everyone in the family. If you are though looking for a safe way to vacation without your pup there are services such as Trusted House Sitters.

Here are seven tips for traveling with a dog. With these tips, you can keep the trip stress-free and enjoy every second with your pet. Now no one gets left behind!

1. Paw-Fect Practice

Practice makes perfect, right? Before the big trip, try a few practices rounds with your dog.

Get them accustomed to traveling further and further from home. Each time you head out, add a few miles. That way, they adjust to traveling for longer durations and distances. 

If your test drives a trip that’s longer than an hour, make a pit stop. Show your dog that they’ll have time for bathroom breaks along the way.

You can also use this as an opportunity to test a new crate or travel bed. That way, your dog will recognize it as a safe, relaxing space, even when you’re traveling.

Don’t forget to reward your dog for a job well done!

2. Keep Calm 

New experiences can make anyone a little jumpy. If your dog gets easily excited or anxious, it’s important to find ways to calm them down. 

For traveling stress-free, consider melatonin for dogs. This can help regulate your dog’s sleep cycle. It also helps with moods, including anxiety. Melatonin can keep your dog calm during the trip without sedating them.

You can also add your dog’s favorite toy or blanket to their travel crate.

That way, they have something familiar to focus on during the trip.

Some people also suggest CBD dog treats to calm a nervous pup. While CBD is safe for dogs, consult your vet before purchasing them if you have questions. 

3. Meal Plan

Traveling disrupts your dog’s usual routine. To give them a sense of home, pack their usual dog food and treats. 

This adds a little consistency back into your dog’s routine. Don’t forget any medications, too. Otherwise, a sudden change to their diet might cause a gastrointestinal upset. 

Make sure to pack as much food as you need for the duration of your trip.

You might not be able to find your pet’s usual food at your travel destination. You can also call a pet or grocery store in the area ahead of time to see if they have your dog’s usual food. 

Tell your vet about the trip beforehand. That way, you can pick up any medications you might need before the trip. 

By planning ahead, you can add as much consistency back into your pet’s routine as possible. 

4. Keep ’em Comfy

Your dog’s crate or travel bed should feel like a safe space. Make sure they’re comfortable and familiar with this bed beforehand. 

For traveling stress-free, research travel beds that are lightweight and easy to pack. A cleanable dog bed that rolls up for easy stowing is ideal as it is easily cleaned if your dog has an accident from the stress of traveling. That way, you don’t have to worry about lugging around a heavy bed. 

If you’re staying at a friend’s house or hotel during the trip, consider a travel crate.

That way, you can head out for a meal or adventure without worrying about your dog exploring too much on their own. 

5. Get into Gear

Don’t forget to pack all the essentials! That means everything in your suitcase—and in your dog’s travel pack, too. 

In addition to your dog’s favorite food, make sure you have water to keep them hydrated. You can bring a portable dog dish to make water breaks a cinch.

If you’re on the road, pack a few ice cubes in a cooler. 

These frozen treats can keep your dog hydrated (and occupied) while you’re on the road. You can also use chicken broth instead. This can help reduce their motion sickness during the drive. 

Don’t forget a harness, collar, and leash. That way, you don’t have to worry about your pet running off during bathroom breaks. 

6. Emergency Prep

Before you head out for your trip, make a pit stop at the vet’s first. 

Get the all-clear from your vet that it’s okay for your dog to travel. They can also give you some additional tips about traveling stress-free with your dog. 

If you’re headed to a different state or overseas, your dog might need a certification stating they’re healthy. They might also need additional shots. 

Check with your airlines to see if they have a bill of health requirements. You should research your trip’s destination as well. 

Research vets in the area, including their name, number, and location. That way, you have somewhere to go in case of an emergency. 

A handy emergency clean-up kit can make traveling stress-free, too. After all, your dog might experience an accident if they’re not accustomed to long trips. 

That way, you’re prepared for anything.

7. Exercise Before You Go

According to Harvard Health, having a dog could lower your risk of heart disease. That exercise routine is good for you both.

It’s important not to break that routine, even on the day you’re traveling. Instead, run around with your dog right before you embark on your trip. 

This can help tire your dog out (especially if they’re a young, vivacious pup). 

Try to get in a real workout before hitting the road. If they can run around off-leash, even better. That way, they’re stimulated and getting a little exploring in. 

Throw a ball around and encourage them to get moving! Now both of you are getting a little energy out before you start traveling.

This will help make traveling stress-free with your dog and keep them relaxed during the trip. 

7 Paw-Fect Tips for Traveling Stress-Free with Your Dog

With these seven tips for traveling stress-free with your dog, you can have a paw-fect trip full of tail-wagging fun!

Check the travel section of the blog for more helpful tips and trips for traveling stress-free.