Embarking on a road trip with your best friend — man’s best friend — is a great way to make memories. We love driving around town with our Yorkies.  

 

Taking a road trip with your pet can involve a few challenges, but preparation helps make sure that you and your dog are safe & comfortable for every mile.  

 

Scroll down to learn some of our top tips for road tripping with your dog!  

 

BEFORE YOU GO… 

 

Practice Trips Can Ease Anxiety  

 

Don’t limit car rides to visits to the vet! If you know your dog is anxious about car rides, consider trying behavioral training before your road trip. Take some short practice trips that end with a positive experience, such as a stop at the dog park or a treat. That may ease your pet before the road trip.  

 

MORE > Avoid Summertime Driving Dangers 

 

Plan a Pet-Friendly Route 

 

When you take your dog along on a trip, you must plan around its needs, including bathroom breaks and exercise. Make sure your route has plenty of safe places for both of you to stretch your legs.  

 

You also should think about: 

 

• Booking dog-friendly accommodations 
• Scheduling bathroom breaks every 2 to 3 hours 
• The weather forecast 
• Local vet details and locations 
• Local breed restrictions 

 

Before Hitting the Road, Check with Your Vet 

 

Before hightailing it out of town, ensure that your pet is healthy enough to travel. If your dog has health issues, ask how travel will affect it. Make sure that your dog’s vaccines, flea and tick preventatives, and medications are current.  

 

This is also an excellent opportunity to ask your vet about nausea or anxiety-reducing aids that may be helpful for the drive.  

 

 

Prepare Your Vehicle  

 

Before hitting the road, remember that your pet’s safety is the most important thing to consider. Use a dog sling or hammock in the back seat to create a safe and comfortable space for your best friend. These will keep your pet safe but will also save your car’s upholstery from fur and claw marks. 

 

Other things to prepare your vehicle include: 

 

• Checking the position of airbags 
• Ensuring water and water bowls are accessible 
• Installing window shades to keep your dog safe from the sun 

 

Prepare your vehicle for a road trip — get your oil changed and fluids topped off with Butler Automotive Management’s mobile lube services! We’ll come to you, even at the dog park! Call us today, (813) 850-0022. 

 

MORE > A Guide to Common Dashboard Lights  

 

Packing Pet Essentials  

 

Pack your pet’s necessities and make sure they are easily accessible. The essentials include: 

 

• Food and treats 
• Water and water dishes 
• Blankets and towels 
• Mini grooming kit 
• Medications 
• Cleaning supplies for pet accidents 
• Sweaters or jackets if it is cold 
• Vaccination records Microchip details 
• Pet bedding/crate 
• Two leashes (just in case) 
• Favorite toys 
• Waste-disposal bags 
• Pet first-aid kit 

 

Wear Your Dog Out 

 

A tired dog is often a well-behaved dog, so take your pet for a long walk or visit the dog park before leaving on the trip. Your dog should sleep for part of the trip.  

 

Then, keep your dog entertained on the road. A favorite chew toy is a good bet. Plus, this may keep it from chewing on your car’s seat belts! 

 

Make sure driving breaks include some hard play or running to help your pup rest in the car between stops. 

 

 

WHILE ON THE ROAD… 

 

Take Plenty of Bathroom Breaks  

 

Never pass a potty…make sure to plan for more frequent (and extended) stops along the way.  

 

Puppies usually need a bathroom break once an hour, but an older dog might be fine for 2 to 3 hours or longer. You likely know how often your dog needs to use the bathroom, so it’s best to stay with that schedule.  

 

Be aware that time spent in an unfamiliar environment and heightened anxiety can make even the most regular dog unpredictable, so keep a close eye on your pup for signs of whining or excessive panting could indicate the need to stretch and go to the bathroom. 

 

Always Use a Leash for Safety  

 

Stopping for gas is necessary on long trips, but gas stations can be dangerous for your pup. If you are letting your dog out for a bathroom break, keep them on the leash and always watch them closely.  

 

Traffic is a hazard, so keep your dog leashed at all stops. Raise the windows enough that your pet can’t squeeze out, and the doors should be shut. You want to keep your friend safe. 

 

If it is hot outside, NEVER leave your dog alone in the car even with the windows cracked and/or AC running.  

 

Get Road Trip Ready with Butler Automotive Management  

 

Whether you need your oil changed before your adventure or a detail when you get back, BAM can help! We will clean that dog hair with our five-star steam wash and detail services! 

 

Call Butler Automotive Management in Tampa, Fla., (813) 850-0022, to book mobile detailing or a steam wash to get rid of pet hair, odors, and dog nose smudges on your windows!