Unfortunately, pets can't drive themselves, now can they? (image by fox44now.com)
So, you’ve gotten your first pet, and you’re facing what looks to be a dilemma; a long distance trip via automobile over the Forth of July weekend with your new companion. Traveling with your dog or cat can be a rewarding and easy experience with just a little preparation.
Part of that preparation is gathering a short list of essentials items. We recommend the following for either a cat or a dog:
- Pet carrier, barrier and/or harness – We know what you’re thinking. Why wouldn’t it be ok to allow a pet unlimited access to the interior of the car? We can think of plenty of reasons, and think that it us a bad idea for all involved. An errant pet can be a safety hazard as you drive, keeping your eyes off the road, and potentially stopping you from being able to complete the task of driving. Using a carrier, barrier or harness can keep your pet safe in the case of sudden stops. And in the event of an accident, it will keep your pet from becoming a projectile bouncing through the car, causing damage to themselves and others, and in a worst case scenario, keeping your dog or cat from being ejected. Only larger dogs require a barrier and harness, whereas all others can uses carriers.
- Tags and immunization records – Your pet should be wearing its registration tags, and it’s a great idea to have copies of their immunization records, too. Some pet-friendly hotels and almost all pet-friendly resorts require them at check in as well.
- Microchip Implant – These passive RFID chips are placed under the skin of your dog or cat. In the unfortunate event your pet is lost or separated from you while on the road, they can be a godsend in getting your loved one back.
- Pet luggage – No, this doesn’t mean your dog or cat need their own set of luggage. But your pet (and you) need a single place where you can keep essential items organized. A basic duffle bag with pockets or a backpack with multiple pockets fills the bill nicely.
- Water and food bowls – Pets are just like us, they have to eat and drink, even while on the road. While collapsible models are available, it’s a bit more economical to just select a normal bowl. Don’t forget a reusable bottle to keep water in for your dog or cat while you’re on the road.
- Leashes - While most cat owners don’t harness and leash train their cats, it is an item you simply must have if you’re traveling distances that require bathroom breaks. Rest area stops often have pet walks, but due to the proximity of the road and the rules and regulations most have, you’ll need to have your animal under your control for their safety, as well as the safety of others.
- GPS/Pre-mapped bathroom breaks – If your trip is long enough that you and your pet will need bathroom breaks, it’s a good idea to either pre-map them before you leave, or to use a GPS to find suitable stops. Like drivers and passengers, pets will need a chance to exercise and escape the confines of a car. If you’re planning on staying in hotels or motels overnight, you’ll also want to pre-map pet-friendly choices.
- Pet coverage on your automobile policy – Many insurers now offer policy options to cover pets. With most auto insurers’ basic policies, pets are afforded no coverage, especially if you’re at fault for a collision or crash.
- Special toys/possessions – If your pet has a stuffed animal, sock toy or item that they sleep or play with or otherwise is a significant part of their lives, you might want to bring them along to help keep your pet relaxed and calm.
