ThereÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s nothing quite like hitting the open road with your dog by your sideÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥”windows down, tunes up, and adventure ahead. But as fun and rewarding as summer travel can be, it takes a little extra planning to make sure your furbaby stays safe, comfortable, and relaxed throughout the journey.
Before you hit the road, take your dog for a walk to burn off some energy. Once you're ready to go, make sure they're safely securedÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥”whether that's in a crash-tested harness or a comfy crate. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping them safe during sudden stops.
DonÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™t forget to bring a treat-filled Kong or a favourite toy to help keep them calm and entertained along the way.
For dogs who struggle with car travel, tools such as the ThunderShirt and ThunderCap can be very effective. The ThunderShirt works by applying gentle, constant pressureÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥”much like swaddling a babyÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥”which can calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
The ThunderCap helps minimize visual stimulation by filtering out excess light and movement, which can be especially helpful for dogs who react to everything they see outside the car.
Plan to stop every few hours so your pup can stretch their legs, have a drink, and take a bathroom break. ItÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s good for both of you! And rememberÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥”on warm days, even a few minutes in a parked car can be dangerous. If youÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™re stepping out, make sure your dog goes with you.
Managing hotel stays with your dog
Setting up the room
When you check into a hotel, help your dog feel more at home by creating a familiar environment. Use your dogÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s own blanket or bed and stick to their usual routine for feeding and walks. Take your dog for a walk right after arriving to burn off nervous energy and help them settle.
Use a pet camera: A portable pet camera allows you to monitor your dog remotely when youÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™re not in the room. If your dog becomes distressed, you can return promptly or adjust your plans to support them better.
Managing dog separation anxiety in hotel rooms
Unfamiliar environments can trigger anxiety, especially when your dog is left alone. Use these strategies to ease their stress:
- DonÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™t leave right away: Spend 20-30 minutes relaxing in the room before stepping out, so your dog doesnÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™t associate the new place with immediate separation.
- Start small: Begin with three or four very short absences (2Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥“3 minutes) to help them build confidence and realize youÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™re not leaving forever, and youÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™ll come back.
- Keep them occupied: Provide a puzzle toy or treat-stuffed Kong to focus their attention on something positive.
- Familiar scents: Leave behind a blanket or T-shirt with your scent to comfort your dog while youÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™re out.
If your dog experiences severe anxiety, consider taking them with you on outings or limiting time away until theyÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™re more secure in the space.
With a little preparation and sensitivity to your dogÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s needs, summer travel can be a wonderful opportunity to bond and explore new places together. Pay close attention to signs of stress, overheating, or anxiety, and tailor your plans to make the trip enjoyable for both of you.