Road trip with your pet? We’ve got you covered.

Summer is a great time to get in your car and start exploring! If you plan to bring pets with you though, it’s important to keep a few important safety tips in mind.

First of all, if you take your pet along with you, make sure you have a plan in place so they will never be left unattended in your vehicle. Visit nohotpets.ca for more information on the dangers of leaving pets unattended in vehicles.

Road trips are generally the easiest and most relaxing way to travel with your pet. Train your pet to travel in a car by taking her on lots of short car trips to places she loves. For your pet’s safety and your own, confine her to the back seat, either in a carrier or pet seatbelt (a special harness that attaches to the car’s seatbelt).

To keep your pet comfortable throughout the trip:

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  Keep the car at a comfortable temperature using air conditioning or heat when necessary (never leave your pet alone inside the vehicle, even with windows partially open, it only takes minutes for an animal to develop heatstroke or freeze);

• Feed your pet a light meal at least four hours before the trip (to help prevent car sickness);
• Prevent your pet from sticking her head out the window (sudden stops and debris can cause injury);
• Schedule rest stops every two to four hours for exercise, bathroom and water breaks (bring a litter box for cats);
• Attach your pet’s leash before opening the car door (to prevent accidental escapes);
• If your pet’s not used to travelling use a harness (it’s more difficult for your pet to wriggle out of);
• If crossing borders bring a copy of any required documents (e.g. proof of vaccinations); and
• Keep the car sound system volume moderate due to the sensitivity of dogs’ and cats’ hearing.