Traveling With a Dog by Car: Holiday Plan

Book a check-up if your dog has a health condition, is elderly, or has not been seen recently, and ask whether they are fit for a long journey. Make sure vaccinations are up to date, parasite prevention is current, and any prescription medication is stocked for the whole trip plus a few extra days. If you are crossing borders or staying somewhere with specific rules, check what documents or health certificates are required.

Make sure your dog's ID tag shows a phone number that will be answered while you travel, and check that the microchip registration is current. Consider adding a temporary tag with your destination address and a second contact. Take a recent photo of your dog on your phone, in case they go missing in an unfamiliar place.

A loose dog in a car is a danger to themselves and to the people inside. In a sudden stop or crash, an unrestrained dog can be thrown and injured, and can injure others. They can also distract the driver, climb into the footwell, or jump out when a door opens. In many places, it is also against the law or can lead to a fine if the dog interferes with driving.

• A secured crate, anchored so it cannot slide, is a good option for many dogs. Choose one that is the right size, and ideally has been crash-tested.
• A crash-tested harness that clips into the seat belt works for dogs who are comfortable on a seat.
• A barrier or cargo area in an estate or SUV can keep a dog in the rear, but does not protect them in a collision on its own.
• Avoid placing dogs in the front seat, where an airbag can injure them, and never let them ride in a truck bed or with their head out of the window.
• Do not attach a harness to a collar, since sudden force could injure the neck.

Pack for your dog as you would for a child: everything they need for the whole trip and a bit more. A well-organized bag saves time at stops and avoids last-minute shopping in an unfamiliar town.

1. Food for the whole trip and a few extra days, in a sealed container, plus bowls.
2. Water from home if your dog is sensitive to changes, and a travel bowl.
3. Medication, supplements, and written dosing instructions.
4. A leash, a spare leash, collar and harness, and waste bags.
5. Bedding, a blanket, a crate if used, and a familiar toy or chew.
6. Vaccination records, your vet's number, and a nearby emergency vet's number.
7. A first aid kit, towels, and wipes for muddy paws or accidents.
8. A recent photo and copies of ID and microchip details.

Plan to stop every two to three hours for your dog to toilet, drink, and stretch their legs, and more often for puppies, seniors, and dogs who get carsick. Choose safe, fenced, or quiet spots away from busy roads, and keep your dog on a leash during every stop. Parking lots and rest areas can be hectic, with strangers, other dogs, and traffic.

Feed a light meal a few hours before departure, rather than right before getting in the car, and avoid large meals while traveling. Offer water at each stop. Keep the car temperature comfortable, use window shades if the sun is strong, and never leave your dog alone in a parked car: temperatures inside can climb or drop to dangerous levels in minutes, even in cool weather.

Note: If your dog shows signs of overheating or chilling, such as heavy panting, drooling, shivering, weakness, or collapse, stop in a safe place and seek veterinary help immediately.

Signs of motion sickness include drooling, lip licking, yawning, restlessness, whining, and vomiting. Some dogs are physically sick, and others are anxious because the car predicts something unpleasant, such as the vet. Start with short, positive trips to fun places, and build up the distance. Offer a treat or a game at the destination, so the car predicts good things.

A secure, comfortable position, fresh air through a slightly open window, and a lightly fed stomach can all help. Ask your veterinarian about options for dogs who are very sick or anxious, including medication. Do not give human medication without advice.

Check pet policies before you book. Many hotels and rentals allow dogs but have rules about size, fees, and leaving dogs alone in rooms. Ask whether there is a dog-friendly area, and bring a crate or a bed so your dog has a familiar space. If you are staying with family, check that they are comfortable with the dog, and make sure the house is safe: put toxic foods, medications, and decorations out of reach.

On arrival, let your dog explore the new space on a leash, and set up their bed and water first. Keep their routine as close as possible to normal, with the same meal times and walks, and give them quiet time away from the busiest parts of the gathering.