Planning a road trip with your dog? Don’t forget to pack these important items!

Going on a road trip with your dog is so much fun. It’s a great way to bond and connect with your canine companion, and you’re sure to enjoy lots of new dog-friendly activities and attractions. But if you don’t pack accordingly, you may find yourself scrambling in an unknown location trying to find a pet store that sells a product you forgot. Here’s a few must-haves to pack before embarking on your next long-distance car ride!

1. Current ID tag

When traveling with your dog, it is extremely important to double check his ID tag prior to hitting the open road. Make sure your contact information is up to date, including your cell phone number. If you have an electronic ID tag system, include as much information as possible about your route and destination.

2. Your dog’s food, fresh water, bowls, and treats

If you have a raw-fed dog, this may be a bit trickier, depending on how long you will be away from home. A large cooler with plenty of ice and frozen meals is a great way to keep his food frozen during your trip. You can also opt for a dehydrated or freeze-dried raw diet! If you are unable to bring all the food you’ll need for the duration of the trip, research a pet store prior to your departure and inquire if they carry your dog’s brand of food. This will allow you the opportunity to purchase backup food when you arrive at your destination.

3. Health records

It’s always a good idea to bring a copy of your dog’s veterinarian records. If your dog needs emergency veterinary care, you will be able to provide the emergency clinic all of his records, labs, and dates of treatment so they can provide the best care possible.

4. Dog first aid kit

It’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. A dog first aid kit should be in all dog parents’ cars. Before you leave for your trip, go through your kit, make sure nothing is expired, and consider whether or not you need to add anything location-specific. Locate emergency vets in the area you will be traveling and write down their phone numbers and addresses to store in the kit for safe keeping.

5. Dog bones, chews and toys

Don’t forget to pack your dog’s favorite chews and playthings! These will keep him occupied during long hours in the car, and will make him feel more at home when you reach your destination.

6. Travel restraint

When traveling with your dog in the car, it’s important for him to be safely restrained by a crash-tested harness or crate. There have been numerous instances where dogs have become lost after a car accident. By securing your dog in the car, you’ll avoid this situation – and help prevent injury in case an accident happens!

7. Proper gear

Depending on when and where you are traveling with your dog, he may need some apparel for comfort and safety. A few common items include dog boots, a dog coat, a cooling jacket, or a life jacket. Think about what you and your dog will be doing on your trip and ensure he has the proper accessories.

8. Belly bands, towels, pet wipes and poop bags

If you have a male dog, you may want to consider bring along a belly band. This is a simple fabric band that goes around his “parts” to prevent him from peeing on furniture. It’s a great way to ensure he doesn’t leave his mark in a hotel room – or wherever else you’re staying. Towels, cleaning supplies, pet wipes and poop bags are a few other must-haves when traveling with a four-legged companion.

9. Doggy road trip bag

With so many things to bring, placing all your dog’s belongings in his own travel bag can be extremely helpful. This will make it much easier to find what you need, when you need it.

10. A good attitude and flexibility

A dog-friendly road trip is supposed to be fun! Don’t get too worried if things don’t go as planned, and be prepared to change your itinerary as needed. Pay attention to your dog’s needs and remember to have fun along the way.