Ready to hit the road? Your PUP needs a travel plan too!
Safety Starts in the Car
Before you hit the road, make sure your dog is safely secured. No matter how short the trip:
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Use a crash-tested seat belt harness or a well-ventilated travel crate
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Avoid letting dogs ride with their head out the window (it’s cute, but not safe)
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Keep the car cool, well-ventilated, and never leave your pup inside while you run errands — even for a few minutes
Just like you wear your seatbelt, your dog deserves the same level of protection.
Time Your Pit Stops
Plan your bathroom and exercise breaks before dark, when fireworks or neighborhood noisemakers might start popping off.
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Look for quiet, shaded rest stops or grassy areas
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Keep your dog leashed at all times, even if they’re usually off-leash trained — unfamiliar places and sudden sounds can cause even the calmest dogs to bolt
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Offer water at every stop to keep them hydrated
Think of it as “fueling up” for your dog just like you would for yourself.
Pack a Go Bag Just for Your Pup
No holiday road trip is complete without your dog’s Go Bag — a simple grab-and-go pack with all the essentials they might need on the move:
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Collapsible water bowl and fresh water
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Reflective leash, harness, and vest
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ID tags and vaccination records
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Favorite toy or chew to reduce stress
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Bed or blanket that smells like home
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Medications, calming chews, or first aid supplies
Bonus tip: toss in a printed photo of your dog, just in case they get lost and you need to show someone what they look like quickly.
Arriving Somewhere New?
Once you reach your destination — whether it’s Grandma’s house, a vacation rental, or a campsite — take a few minutes to make the space dog-friendly.
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Do a quick sweep for potential hazards like open trash, toxic plants, fireworks, or unfamiliar animals
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Set up a safe space in your room, tent, or RV where your dog can rest and relax — with their bed, toys, and food/water bowls
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Let them explore slowly and on-leash at first, so they don’t get overwhelmed
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Look up the nearest emergency vet ahead of time — just in case
Planning ahead takes the stress out of traveling with your pup and gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy the adventure.
Because when your dog feels safe, secure, and seen — every trip becomes a tail-wagging good time.