Road Trips With Your Dog: A Packing List and 8 Rules for the Car

A dog can be the best road-trip partner you ever have. A little planning keeps it that way.

1. Restrain them in the car

A crash-tested harness, a secured crate or a barrier keeps everyone safer.

Watch out for: dogs loose in the front seat or the open bed of a truck.

2. Never leave them in a parked car

Cars heat up fast, even on mild days and with windows cracked.

3. Stop every two to three hours

Water, a leashed walk and a bathroom break.

4. Keep heads inside

It looks joyful. Flying grit and insects injure eyes and ears.

5. Feed light before you leave

A small meal a few hours ahead helps with car sickness. Ask your vet if it is a regular problem.

6. Check ID before you go

Tag on the collar, microchip details current, a recent photo on your phone.

7. Book dog-friendly stays ahead

Policies and fees vary a lot.

8. Find a vet near where you are going

Save the number before you need it.

The packing list

• Food, treats, water and bowls.

• Leash, spare leash, waste bags.

• Bed or blanket that smells like home.

• Medicines and vaccine records.

• Towels and a basic first-aid kit.

• A favorite chew for the hotel.

Where to check all of this, free

• Your veterinarian, especially before crossing state lines or flying.

• The American Veterinary Medical Association's traveling with pets page at avma.org.

This article is general information, not veterinary advice.