Plotting out pit stops, walking trails and emergency health contacts before hitting the road will help make a trip with your pet a smooth one.Toni Tan
The first time I tried to get my new pup, Tess, into the car, it ended hours later with me covered in sweat (mine) and fur (hers) while Tess huddled in the back seat, unsure of me and the whole situation.
Rescued from northern Quebec and brought to a shelter in Saint-Hilaire, Tess probably saw the car as a giant, scary machine, not a ride to a new home. Little did she know, she’d soon be spending countless hours on the road between Montreal and Toronto.
Since that first day, I’ve learned a few tricks, and Tess now enjoys our cross-country adventures. Taking a road trip with her is a lot like having a co-pilot who’s mostly interested in snacks and squirrels. She happily settles in, stares out the window like she’s solving world peace, accepts a few treats and pats, then happily falls asleep for hours.
After some lessons learned – always pack extra poop bags, neutralizing spray and paper towels – we’ve found our groove. These are the essentials to ensure a happy holiday and tips for when things go awry.
Before you hit the road with your dog
Start by checking that vaccinations are up-to-date and meet the requirements of any province you’ll be visiting. Be sure to have a printed copy of the dog’s vaccination records, including proof of kennel cough and rabies, as some provinces require them for boarding or entry.
To make your trip smoother, consider using resources such as BringFido to find accommodations and restaurants along your route. The app’s database covers pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals and local dog parks, ensuring that you and your pup will be well taken care of during your travels. To break up a long road trip, apps such as AllTrails offer lists of pet-friendly hiking trails, so both you and your dog can stretch your legs.
I always pack at least two toys: one favourite because it’s familiar and comforting, and a new one to provide mental stimulation, which keeps my dog entertained in the hotel room. Unlike me, she doesn’t care to binge Netflix at the end of a long drive. A new toy entertains and distracts.
Helping your pet adjust to car rides
If dogs only travel by car to visit a vet, they may associate the experience with stress and get anxious. To ease this, offer a small treat during car rides (if they don’t suffer from car sickness). “Positive reinforcement, like treats or praise, helps them associate the car with something enjoyable,” says Dr. Danny Joffe, veterinarian and vice-president of Medical Operations for VCA Canada.
When pets can’t tolerate treats, reassuring hugs and pats can still let them know they’re good doggies. Some adjust easily to car travel, while others show signs of distress, like salivating, pacing, whining or vomiting.
If your dog experiences motion sickness, especially vomiting or excessive drooling, consult your vet for advice or anti-nausea medication. There are also calming options such as dog swaddle shirts or pheromone collars, both designed to help soothe.
En route
Plan to have a leash or harness on your dog before opening the car door during your trip. Even dogs who aren’t usually escape artists may bolt in unfamiliar settings. Keep their collar and ID tags on them at all times, too. Unfamiliar places or noisy traffic can easily startle a dog. You might also consider purchasing a GPS tracking collar to have the ability to locate your dog in real-time.
If your dog isn’t used to travelling, you may need to stop more often to let them pee or do zoomies. For the more mature four-legged traveller, sometimes it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie. If your dog is resting peacefully, there’s no need to disturb them for a scheduled break.
Keep your pet safe while driving
As tempting as it may be to let your pet sit on your lap while driving, Dr. Joffe warns that it’s an accident waiting to happen. “If your pet is on your lap and you suddenly hit the brakes or get into a collision, your pet could be crushed between you and the steering wheel,” he says.
This is a serious safety concern for both you and your pet.
While it may seem cute to have your dog close, the safest way to travel with them is to use a crate. If that’s not an option, invest in a pet seatbelt to securely restrain your pet in the car. Keeping your pet safe is not only better for them, but it ensures a safer drive for everyone.
If things do go wrong
It’s a good idea to have your vet’s contact information and a list of emergency clinics programmed into your phone ahead of time. If your dog is injured or feeling unwell, avoid attempting to diagnose or treat the issue on your own – veterinarians are your best resource.
Tess has become the best road companion. She’s now a seasoned traveller, feeling just as much at home in the car as she is in our living room. As for me? I’ve learned that the best journeys aren’t just about where you’re going – they’re about keeping a bag of treats within arm’s reach.