If you’ve ever taken a road trip with your dog, you’ll know preparation is the key. If you’d like to take your dog road tripping in the USA, read on…
How to plan a USA Road Trip with your dog
With its iconic routes, wide-open spaces and truly fabulous scenery, the USA is one of the best places in the world to take a road trip. If you plan your journey well beforehand it’s also a fabulous way for your pet pooch to also accompany you on your vacation. Here’s how to plan a USA Road Trip with your dog…
Start planning all the logistics
To travel safely with any pet it’s best to plan the route very carefully including the length of the trip, the types of roads you will travel and be aware of all the rules and regulations (especially if you’re visiting from another country). Depending on the types of areas you intend to visit, you will also need to have an understanding of the terrain, driving speeds and regulations specifically related to traveling with a pet. For the USA, you will need to be able to secure your dog in the car either by a crate or a secured harness and make provisions so your four-legged friend is never left in a hot car when you make stops.
Book your dog-friendly hotels along the route
Part of the planning should ideally also include booking of some dog-friendly hotels along the way, as they aren’t always easy to find along the route! Make sure that the hotel welcomes the pets and check whether there is an extra charge or any conditions attached.
Take your dog for a vet check-up
It’s also a great idea to book your dog in for a check-up with a vet before you head off. Your dog will need to be up-to-date with vaccinations, worming and ensure that he or she is in good health. It’s also a good idea to check if your proposed route has access to a vet just in case your furry friend falls ill along the way.
Pick your route…
Finding a great dog-friendly route is essential to planning a USA trip as certain areas in the USA are much more dog-friendly than others. For example, California is known to be a dog-loving state so a route likes the Pacific Coast Highway stopping at San Diego, LA, Santa Barbara, Carmel, Pismo Beach and Monterey would be perfect!
Dog-friendly attractions
For a really great dog-friendly trip in the USA, also plan out some great dog-friendly attractions along the way. For example, dog-friendly beaches, parks and hiking trails are a good start but if you want to go one step further also check out San Diego’s fabulous Imperial Beach’s Unleashed Surf Dog tournaments in San Diego or the Hornblower cruise’s annual Pet Day on the Bay.
Take all your equipment
Part of planning a great USA trip with a dog is checking that you have all the correct gear before heading off. Make sure you have a well-stocked doggie first aid kit including tick removers, bandages and anti-diarrhea and anti-sickness tablets. Of course, you should also make sure you pack a water bowl, plenty of water, treats and food. A travelling crate or harness, a bed, blanket and a favourite toy for comfort also should be packed.
Make sure your dog is used to the car first
Here’s hoping that your pooch doesn’t get travel sick and is also very used to travelling in the car. If not, it’s a great idea to start getting your dog used to being comfortable in the car. Car anxiety can be worked on.
A good introduction is just starting to play with your dog in the car when it’s stationary and then taking them on smaller trips to start with. Anxiety can be a concerning issue when travelling in the car so in this case look into buying one of the natural remedies now on the market which are designed to ease your pet’s stress. Now all you have to do is enjoy your trip with your pooch!
About the author:
Becky is from GlobalGrasshopper.com where she blogs about Dog friendly travel (amongst many other things).