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Jul
We’re a nation of dog lovers, so it’s no surprise that wherever we go, we want to take our furry friends too. If you’re taking a road trip with your pup, it’s important that you have the right equipment and preparation to ensure they’re safe and comfortable throughout the journey. Below are some of the essentials you’ll need for your dog’s travel kit, to keep your dog happy, secure, and cared-for whilst you’re on the road.
Harness and seat belt
You may already use a harness for your dog on walks. A harness for the car is a must to keep your dog safe in the event of an accident, or even if you have to brake suddenly. You can get specific car harnesses for dogs that will clip straight into the seat belt, or you can buy a separate seat belt attachment and clip it to your dog’s usual walking harness.
Dog seat
A dog seat for the car can be perfect for smaller dogs. A cushioned booster seat will allow them to see out the window for a more comfortable ride. Most dog car seats will easily position into your back seat and clip into place using the seatbelt, and many will also have an extra belt to clip your dog in and keep them safe.
An added benefit of a dog seat is that it can usually be removed and used as a travel bed, perfect for if you’re staying overnight somewhere new.
Dog guard
A dog guard for the car can be vital if you have larger dogs who are keen to get into the front and travel with you. A dog guard, when used with a seatbelt, will help to keep them in place and keep everyone in the car safe. You can find solid guards, that are perfect for when your dog travels in your boot, or fabric guards, which can be better for putting between the front and back seats.
Travel water bowl
Your dog will need to be kept well-hydrated throughout the journey. A foldable water bowl can be a great addition to your travel kit, as it won’t take up too much space when not in use. Alternatively, you can find a travel water bottle for dogs that includes an attachment for them to drink out of. These can be perfect for hikes when you want to ensure your dog has plenty of their own water.
Calming dog treats
If your dog gets anxious in the car, you could try some calming treats. There are many choices for calming dog treats on the market, which use natural remedies such as hemp oil and chamomile to keep dogs relaxed. You can also speak to your vet to see if they can advise on the best calming supplements if your dog really struggles in the car.
What else should you take for your dog when travelling in the car?
When you’re taking a trip with your dog, it’s not just the car accessories you’ll need to remember. Below are some essential items that you might need to keep your dog comfortable, wherever you might be going.
Cooling accessories
It’s vital that dogs are kept cool in hot weather. Ideally, dogs will be kept inside and/or in the shade when temperatures rise. You can help to keep them comfortable by using cooling accessories such as a cooling mat or cooling jacket. Cooling mats contain a special gel that absorbs heat when pressure is applied, so when the dog lies on it, they are cooled down.
Cooling jackets work with using evaporation to cool dogs, or with an ice insert that needs to be stored in the freezer. Both can be helpful if you’ll be outside with your dog in warmer weather, although it’s still important to keep your dog out of extreme heat.
Raincoat
If you’re taking a holiday with your dog in the UK, a raincoat is a must. A raincoat will keep your dog dry and comfortable and can also help to keep them clean from mud. Consider the time of year you’ll be travelling with your dog – in cold weather, a thicker raincoat would be ideal, but in the summer look for a thinner raincoat that will keep out the rain without overheating them.
Towel
Whether you’re taking a trip to the beach in the summer or going on a rainy walk, a towel is a must for your travel kit. You can also get a drying robe, which your dog can wear that will absorb water and keep them comfortable. Look for a microfibre option as these are usually best for absorbing water and also fast-drying.
Poo bags
Of course, any diligent dog owner wouldn’t leave the house without plenty of poo bags. If you’re taking a trip, remember to pack enough to cover the entire trip. They can also be helpful when you need an emergency bin bag, such as in the car or on a walk to store rubbish until you can find a proper bin.
Dog SPF
Our dogs can get sunburnt just like humans can, so it’s important that they’re protected with SPF. You’ll need to get specific dog SPF, as there are ingredients in our usual sun cream that aren’t good for dog skin.
You can find dog SPF in ream, balm, or spray format. Sprays can be perfect for dogs with thin coats or light-coloured fur, as you can simply spray them all over and ensure they’re protected. For other dogs, you might just need to apply SPF to their nose, ears, and any other areas where skin is exposed.
Pet first aid kit
You might already have a first aid kit packed for yourself, but you could also include one for your dog. A pet first aid kit should include bandages, surgical sticky tape, cotton wool, blunt scissors, cleansing wipes, tick remover tool, eye wash, and a cone collar. This should be enough to care for your dog in the case of an injury or accident until you can get them to a vet if they need further care.
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