The best way to drive with a dog onboard
As pet owners, we want to share almost every experience with our furry friends and sometimes that involves getting there by car.From runs along the beach to that new café you heard of down south, not only are puppies and dogs are best companions, but make the most ordinary experiences, extraordinary. And while it’s easier to walk them to your local café, taking them for a ride in the car can be a stressful experience for both you and your fur-friend.
Here are five easy ways to make the driving experience better for both you and your pet.
Exert their energy before the car ride
No matter their age, dogs have an abundance of energy! Sometimes when a dog has too much energy before a car ride, there’s more to exert during the journey. Before settling into the car, let your dog run around your backyard or local park, or take them for a walk. Not only will it make them happy but also keep them calm before hopping in the car. Make sure to keep a full portable dog water bottle with you during the ride too.
Make the area they’re secure in comfortable.
Wherever your dog is in the car, make it a sanctuary! Bring things you know your dog loves: one or two of their favourite toys, their comfort blanket, and golden treats. Whether your dog is create-trained or finds comfort in their bed, make their area comfortable and soft. If you’re planning to put a divider between the front and back seat of your car, make sure the backseat has enough room for them to curl up, pace back and forth, or lay down.
Fresh air always helps.
Just like having the wind blow through our hair with the window down on a hot summer’s day, dogs love the same (except with their heads out the window). Some dogs get car sick, so fresh air helps them stay calm and in tune with their surroundings. For smaller dogs, make sure your window isn’t open too wide, just enough for them to stick their head and tongue out.
Regular bathroom breaks
Unless your drive is under 30 minutes, make regular bathroom breaks. Some dogs need to use the bathroom more when they’re stressed, so ensuring that your pup has relieved themselves keeps both you and them calm. When you pull over, give them time to take in their surroundings; let them pee on some trees and sniff the air and streets.
Allow them to familiarise themselves with your new environment
Once you arrive at your destination after what could possibly be a stressful car-ride, let your dog take in its new environment. Similar to bathroom breaks, as soon as your pup jumps out of the car, let them sniff the surrounding areas and any trees or facilities nearby.
Related: Pets in cars: What are the rules when on the road?
Related: What you need to know about dog harnesses for the car
Related: Five ways to fur-proof your car
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