Take your dog on a road trip

#MiddleburyCT #Dog #RoadTrip

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: We’re taking a road trip across the country and bringing our dog, Frankie, with us. He’s about 6 years old and well trained, but has never been beyond the front yard. How can we keep him comfortable on our journey? – Linda P. in Trenton, New Jersey

DEAR LINDA: A road trip sounds like fun! And the key to your dog having a great time is to plan, plan, plan.

First, make sure that Frankie’s vaccinations are up to date and that his license tag and identifying information are securely attached to his collar. It’s not a bad idea to microchip your dog, too – in case he runs off and his collar gets detached. Carry a copy of his vet records with you, too.

Next, start planning the road trip with Frankie in mind:

• Plan rest breaks and build them into your travel time. Check along the route that you’ll be traveling for pet-friendly rest areas where you can walk dogs (on leash) during stretch breaks. You’ll want to stop every two to three hours.
• Look for pet-friendly accommodations along the route. If you’re camping, check the campsite rules – not all of them allow pets!
• Pack a bag just for Frankie that has his medications, food (especially if he eats specialty pet food), favorite toys, extra blanket and extra leash.
• Make sure Frankie is safe and secure in the car. Bigger dogs do better in a kennel cage set up in the back of your SUV or the folded-down back seat, with a padded bed to lie down on.
• If Frankie suffers from anxiety or tends to get sick in the car, talk to the vet about medication to ease his symptoms.

Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.

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