Maybe it’s only for a weekend, or maybe you’re touring around the country, road trips are a great way to enjoy a vacation without spending too much. But what happens when you have a canine best friend and you want to bring him along? Now what? Take some time to prepare the trip so that it is comfortable and safe for the both of you. Here are some things you should consider before taking your dog on a holiday with you:
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Ensure your dog is microchipped
If worse comes to worst, having your dog microchipped can reunite you with your best friend much quicker. Before heading off, ensure that your dog is microchipped with all the details up to date. If you are travelling interstate, make sure that the register you and your dog are recorded on is recognised nationally. If not, try to register on a national register anyways. Attaching an ID tag with your contact details to your dog’s collar can also speed up the reuniting process if you guys do get separated.
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Follow the law
Check the laws that apply to transporting dogs by road in the relevant states. Each state has their own set of road rules so ensure that you are following the correct one. A simple search on Google can save you a lot of trouble later on.
Always make sure to obey the local laws – a fine could ruin your good mood!
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Make sure that your dog is healthy enough to travel
Make sure that your dog is healthy enough to travel. This means that all of their vaccinations, worming and flea treatment is up to date before setting off. If your dog requires medications, make sure you have enough for the entire journey plus a few extra just in case. Depending on where you’re going, you may want to talk to your vet for advice on paralysis tick prevention.
Getting a health check-up for your dog before hitting the open road is always a good idea!
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Ensure that the both of you will be safe during the trip
There is a wide variety of vehicle restraints and transport containers for your dog to choose from. Generally, restraints are attached to the car via existing seatbelts and attaches to your dog’s collar/harness. However, if you prefer to use a transport container instead, ensure that the container there is plenty of space to allow your dog to lie down, stand, sit erect, turn around, and stretch. It is also a good idea to make sure that your dog is used to travelling in a car before you set off.
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NEVER, EVER, leave a dog unattended. Especially in a car.
Dogs can die very quickly from heat stress, even in moderate climates. Don’t take that risk.
A dog in a hot car can die in as little as six minutes according to RSPCA NSW.
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Be prepared if something goes wrong
Try to have the contact details of a few local vets at your destination and along your route beforehand in case you need to make an appointment.
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Lastly, enjoy it!
You’ve earned this holiday! Now go on and enjoy it.
