Thinking of a road trip with your furry pal? Whether it is a day trip, vacation, or a family move - I got you covered!
First, you have to think about your car. How big is it, where will the dog sit (I recommend the back seat), where to put food or water, do you have cloth vs leather seats? Some of these might be irrelevant to you, but others might make a difference. For example: I use to own a car with all black cloth interior...an absolute nightmare for a yellow dog who sheds year-round. Or maybe you have a dog who is always hot -- how will you provide water? Or are other people or luggage going to need to fit as well?
Here are some of my recommendations and favorite products for a successful road trip:
1. Car Seat Cover
Whether you have leather or cloth seats, you don't want them ruined! Maybe you have tough to vacuum seats, maybe you have a messy dog, or maybe you are like me and your dog just so happened to not "match" you car interior, if you know what I mean. I have used a few car seat covers with different "features" if you will. It mainly comes down to preference. I personally use one from 4Knines that can be found on amazon. After using a few, spending a little more money on a higher quality car seat cover will pay off after multiple uses and multiple go arounds in the washing machine. Plus, this brand comes either fitted around the bottom of the seat or as a sling to block off your dog from the front seat as well as protect your floors from dog hair! It also is sold in bucket seat style vs bench seat style if that is what you need.
2. Water
If your dog is like mine, he is always hot. Always panting, always wants water. Conveniently, my car has the perfect water bowl holder that I discovered! I use a simple collapsible silicone water bowl and it fits perfectly snug in my cup holders that my pup can access from the back seat. You can find you one here if it is something that can work for your car too.
But what if that does not work? My other go-to item is the Gulpy Water Bottle! They come in multiple sizes making it a perfect hiking accessory as well! I prefer the larger one since my dog is a thirsty one, but I must say it is harder to carry around unless you bring a backpack to put it in. As far as in the car, this is something that would be used during rest breaks - not while driving - unless you have a co-pilot that can tend to the water for you!
3. Food
If it is possible, have your dog eat before hopping in the car. But from my experience, my dog hardly ever does that. He sees bags packed and starts to get excited, so all thoughts of eating first are over. My favorite "doggy power bars" that have all the calories your pup needs for a whole meal are these - Turbo Pup Bars. I first found them on Shark Tank, and after trying them (no, I did not "try" them...Rusty did.), I was hooked! You can check on www.turbopup.com to locate a store or you now can find them on amazon as well if your local store does not carry them. There are multiple flavors, just be sure to follow the eating guidelines for your pup's size. Please be aware that bigger dogs WILL be eating more than one or even two for ONE MEAL. Feed them like a granola bar on the go, and ta-da, your pup if fueled for the day!
4. Toys!!
This one is simple. Whatever your pup's favorite toy is! Something to keep them entertained between naps, staring out the window, and potty breaks!
5. Seatbelt
I have mentioned this one before. And the great thing is...the seat cover mentioned above has openings to access the seat buckles! The last thing you need is your dog distracting you while driving or climbing into the passenger seat! Again, here is a link to a similar seat belt I use.
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