Traveling with your Pups by Car.

In about two weeks my furry children and me are hitting the road for two LONG days in the car as we are relocating to another state.  They love to go "bye-bye" car but I am still feeling a little unsure of how to keep them occupied for 24 hours worth of drive time.  As a result I did what I normally do when I want to know something - I Google it on the Internet to see what information I can find.  I thought I would impart some of my newfound wisdom for all of you as I am not the first person who took their dog on the road.

According to About.com traveling with your dog by car is the most successful way.  If they go places with you often they already have a positive association with the car.  However, if your dog only gets car rides when going to the vet then it is possible their association with the car will not be a positive one.  If this is the case make an effort to do short trips around the block prior to the trip.  If they go on short fun trips every day their anxiety level will decrease over time.

One thing I always try to do with my dogs when I know I am taking them somewhere unfamiliar is to know where there are dog friendly places in that area.  Before I leave I plan to research off leash dog parks near the freeway so I can ensure a place where they can get out and stretch their legs.  My SUV is always stocked with a water dish and a gallon of drinking water for them. It is so much easier to have on hand then depending on being able to find it in a bind.  The only other thing I plan to have on hand are new bones for each of them.  Nothing like a brand new bone to capture their interest for a few hours at least.

Personally I am not a fan of medicating my dogs unless I truly felt it was necessary.  I do imagine that some of you have a very high strung dog and it may be unavoidable.  Obviously that is something you would need to determine with your vet.  Other than that it sounds like they will be as bored as I will, however given their love for going "bye-bye" in the car the over all ride will be a success.  Check back in a few weeks.  Hopefully I will have a follow up story that includes minimal drama.