In my twenties I spent a lot of time traveling back and forth between British Columbia and California, sometimes driving with friends and quite often making the long trip alone with one constant, my sweet dog Breeah. The road was my second home for a couple of winters where I was thankful to head south and enjoy the warmer weather, and lucky enough to have a trusty companion to share in the adventure.
Traveling with a dog really can prove to be a great experience, but you should be prepared beforehand so you can safeguard your dog against any harm he may encounter. Some things to have in order before leaving with your dog can include:
1. Vaccinations. Make sure all your dog’s vaccinations are up to date, including his rabies shots.
2. Water. Have enough water on hand.
3. Medications (if needed).
4. Crate. It’s a good idea to bring your dogs crate if he has one, making sure its comfortable and well ventilated.
5. Good leash and collar. Make sure all the I.D. tags are up to date with your name, phone number and proof of rabies shot.
6. Microchipped. Wise idea if you haven’t done so already.
7. Photo of dog. Just in case.
You’ll want to be sure that your dog is comfortable with vehicle travel before going on any extended trips, and remember its best for the dog to travel on an empty stomach. Be careful if you travel in the summer months, as the temperatures might be warmer than your dog is accustomed to.
You can research ahead of time to see dog parks, hotels and places that allow for dog. I remember a bar in Flagstaff, Arizona where we went to see some music that allowed dogs and several beaches in California that also welcomed dogs. Its smart to know ahead.
Of course I was young and probably didn’t plan my trips as carefully as I should have, I did learn along the way what I would and wouldn’t do differently for future trips. But overall I have some of my most wonderful memories from those trips.
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