Tips for a paws-itive car travel experience with your furry friend

As a member of your family, your furry friends may often accompany you on your travels. While some animals may love car trips, it can be an anxiety-inducing event for others. So how do you ensure their comfort for a safe trip?  

Get them accustomed 

If travelling is something you anticipate doing frequently with your animal, or you have an upcoming longer trip, start preparing your furry friend earlier. Practicing fun things in your vehicle just in the driveway or on short trips to the park, or to other destinations they enjoy, will encourage a positive association with the vehicle. The more they practice getting in and out of the vehicle and relaxing while driving, the less likely they will be to experience anxiety or fear on a longer trip.  

Incorporate frequent stops 

Whether to stretch their legs or empty their bladders, your furry friends will appreciate frequent stops incorporated into your travels. A long period of time spent in one position in a vehicle can wear on even the most determined travelers among us, so we shouldn’t expect more from our animal companions.  

Do not leave them unattended 

It is imperative that you never leave your animal unattended in a hot vehicle. Even with the windows open, a vehicle can become dangerously hot in a matter of minutes. If you must run errands on the way, take proper precautions by leaving the car running with AC and ensuring someone is in the vehicle with your furry companion while you run in. 

Secure your animal 

Having animals loose in the vehicle is dangerous. Ensure your furry companion is secured during transport with animal seat belts, crates or tethering systems and they remain inside the vehicle’s cab. If the animal becomes anxious, they may try to pace or climb into lower hiding spaces, or even onto someone’s lap, endangering the driver by distracting them and potentially obstructing their ability to drive properly. In addition, your animal could become seriously injured in the event of a collision.   

Keep them hydrated 

No matter the time of year, make sure you carry water and water dishes with you during any vehicle trips with your furry friends. If the animal is not accustomed to being in a vehicle often and is anxious, they may stress pant which can come with excessive drooling, which can accelerate dehydration. The recirculation of air in a vehicle creates dry conditions that may make them feel thirstier, as well.  

Preparing yourself, your furry friend and your vehicle for the journey ahead can result in a more positive, safe experience for all travelers.  

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