Embark on the ulti-mutt adventure with your canine companion—because every trip is better when you have your best fur-iend riding shotgun! Whether you’re paws-ing for a pit stop or sniffing out new trails, your dog is always ready to unleash some fun. From tail-wagging road trips to fetch-tastic beach days, your four-legged buddy makes every mile more paw-some. So, buckle up, roll down the windows, and let the good times roll—after all, life’s a journey best traveled with four paws!
Why Travel with Your Dog? Fur real, is that even a question!
Many dogs love to travel, but let’s face it—without a little prep, your big adventure can turn into a tail-tucked-under disaster for both you and your pup! With your canine as co-pilot, planning isn’t just helpful, it’s the key to making every mile a pawsome adventure for you both!
To make your trip together a success, you must think like a K9-Concierge.
Where will you stay? Are the beds made for snuggling? Does the floor plan accommodate zoomies safely? Are there treats at check-in? Making those paw-some memories takes a little extra attention to the details, especially when it comes to booking accommodations.
Sniff out doggy-loving digs ahead time so that both you and your pup will be comfy, happy, and ready to unleash the fun at every stop.
Do Your Doggy-Diligence
‘Dogs-Spoiled’ Only: Before booking your trip make sure that your itinerary includes not just “pet-friendly” but “pet- spoiled” accommodations. Making sure that your pup has a stress-free and fun DOGcation is essential for a successful trip for you both. Properties that cater to the needs and comfort of pets generally guarantee that the hosts are dog-loving people who will not only “allow” your pet to stay but will go above and beyond to welcome and love your furry friend.
Filters are Your Friend: When searching for accommodations use pet filters to save time. You can narrow your search considerably by what your furry friend wants for his or her stay (for example, a fenced yard, dog park adjacent, a welcome Woofbag at check-in, a private potty place, etc). With filtering you will gain instant access to vacation properties and destinations where your dog will be just as pampered as you are.
Read Reviews: Pet-loving guests will share helpful tips and reviews on where they have stayed with their dog. Such feedback usually includes details about yard size, fencing, cleanliness, pet-friendly shopping and eateries nearby, and local walking trails that will welcome your pooch.
Ask Questions: Message or call your host ahead of time to discuss dog policies, such as breed size restrictions, pet fees, and house rules. Ask about puppy-perks and bark bucks (aka: special coupons for your dog).
The Pawsibilities For Exploring The World With Your Dog By Your Side Are Limitless!
For the surf dog, beach-front houses with their playful waves, tidepools, and expansive sandy spaces are pawfect for the water-loving adventure dog. Looking forward to sharing a moment of quiet bliss with your pup? Then you and your zen dog can find your OM adventuring through enchanted forests and sharing snacks by the fire in a cozy mountain cabin. Hiking trails and clean air are right outside the door providing endless sniffs for them and relaxing forest-bathing for you. If you have a classy canine who enjoys pearls and pawdicures, trendy cafes, and sharing a Pup Cup with new friends at the dog-park, then perhaps the cool vibe of a mid-century urban city loft is for you.
Wherever you travel with your dog, the journey transforms into a shared experience filled with joy, curiosity, and companionship. Each pit stop becomes a new playground, every roadside attraction an opportunity for exploration, and every hotel room a fresh den to investigate. Your dog’s excitement on these road trips is just like that pure, giddiness of leaping onto hotel beds during family vacations—come on, you totally know the feeling (I still can't resist)! Their tail-wagging joy and those zoomies are a reminder that adventure is best when you let loose and have fun together.
Learn to read your dog’s body cues—this is their love language.
Since your pup will be in new surroundings and meeting new people and dogs on your journey, it is up to you as pack leader to be able to ‘read the room’ on their feelings. Are they expressing play behavior, are they being friendly, or are they acting scared, withdrawn, or timid? If your furry bff is well-socialized, then they will most likely be open and eager to meet new friends; however, always be highly aware of and sensitive to your pup’s feelings and body language. Keep an eye on your pup’s comfort and health, making adjustments as needed and be proactive by preparing for unexpected situations.
A Pawsitively Pawfect Packing List
Medications, Doggie-First-Aid Kit, and Leash: Make Sure You Pack These First! When traveling with your FURkid, it’s essential to pack any medications your pup regularly takes—including prescriptions any supplements. Be sure to bring enough for the entire trip, plus a little extra in case your travels are unexpectedly extended. Store medications in their original containers and keep a copy of your vet’s prescription and contact info handy in case you need a refill or encounter an emergency.
A well-stocked doggie first-aid kit is a road trip necessity. Include basic items such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for removing splinters or ticks), scissors, and an emergency blanket. Add items tailored to your dog’s needs, like allergy medications, paw balm, and a digital thermometer. Having a first-aid guide and your veterinarian’s phone number in the kit can be invaluable during unexpected situations.
Don’t forget a sturdy leash for your adventures!
Trust me when I tell you, the leash is the first thing people forget! You may also want to consider packing a backup leash just in case one gets lost or damaged, and, if your dog is accustomed to a harness, bring that as well for added comfort and security during walks.
Collar and ID tags: Keeping your dog’s identification information up-to-date is crucial when traveling. If your pup becomes separated from you in unfamiliar settings, a current ID tag dramatically increases the chances of a safe reunion. Before you hit the road, double-check your dog’s collar fits securely and that ID tags display your current cell phone number and any relevant contact and medical details. Consider adding a travel-specific tag with the name and address of your accommodations, especially if you’ll be staying in multiple places. If your dog is microchipped, verify that the registration information is also current and you may want to add your travel contact info.
Emergency Veterinarians: Make a list of local 24-hour veterinary clinics in the areas where you will be traveling. In case of emergency, it is best to stay calm and have a plan. Your pup will sense your stress and is counting on your protection and comfort.
Food and Treats: Packing your pup’s regular treats and food for the duration of your trip will help minimize any tummy distress. Feed only a small meal 3-4 hours before you hit the road to avoid car sickness.
*Organic Pureed Pumpkin. Pumpkin is excellent to calm a nervous tummy and relieve any GI problems including diarrhea that may occur from the excitement of travel, new foods, lodgings, and treats. You can find a can of organic pureed pumpkin (no spices!) in the cooking aisle of any grocery, or your local pet store carries 2oz travel packs perfect for travel. Just a teaspoon or two either right from the spoon, or added to their food will ease their discomfort and your worry.
Water and Portable Bowls: Ensuring your dog stays hydrated during travel is essential for their health and well-being. Dogs, like people, can quickly become dehydrated when exposed to new environments, increased activity, or warm weather. Frequent hydration helps maintain your dog's energy, keeps their body temperature regulated, and supports healthy digestion throughout your journey.
Travel Dog Crate or Seat Belt Attachment. Using a travel dog crate, seat belt attachment, or doggie car seat is essential for ensuring your pup’s safety and comfort during road tripping in the car. These travel accessories keep your dog secure, minimizing the risk of injury in case of sudden stops or accidents. They also help prevent your dog from causing any distractions to the driver, which can reduce the chances of accidents.
Favorite toys and blankets from home. The scent of home will not only bring comfort, it will also provide entertainment and a sense of familiar fun throughout the journey. Packing a beloved squeaky toy or a plush friend adds an element of play to pit stops and helps distract your pup during moments of anxiety or boredom.
Poop bags! You would be surprised how many people forget the simple things. #Poophappens
Dog towels for muddy adventures.
Grooming supplies (eye and ear wash, brush, paw wipes, and nail trimmers.
Valerian Root/Passionflower treat bars or CBD. I suggest traveling with a relaxation product to give your pup just in case of stress. Since you and your furry bff will be staying in new places and meeting new people with dogs, you want to be prepared with something to give them to chillax. I suggest buying the product before your trip and doing a trial run at home to make sure that your pup responds well to the dosage so that you can adjust that for your trip.
Health Precautions: Make sure vaccinations are current and that your dog is protected against ticks, fleas, and parasites common to your travel destination.
Matching Trucker Hats! Just because they are super cute! Besides the chronic cuteness, hats protect your fab-dog from the sun’s UV rays, and keep them cool.
Some final wags as your journey draws to a close, you’ll realize that traveling with your dog isn’t just about the places you visit, it’s about the joy of sharing new experiences, the laughter of unexpected detours, and the comfort of a loyal furry friend by your side. So, pack your bags, leash up your pup, and chase excitement that promises wags, wonder, and plenty of treats for both of you along the way.
