Car Travel with Your Dog: A Safety and Comfort Checklist

A road trip with your dog can be a joy, but a little preparation keeps it safe and stress free.

Before you leave

• Take a short walk so your dog can burn off energy and go to the toilet
• Pack water, a travel bowl, treats and poop bags
• Bring a copy of vaccination records on longer trips
• Check that the collar tag has an up-to-date phone number

Keep your dog secure

An unrestrained dog can be hurt in a sudden stop and can distract the driver. Use a harness with a seatbelt clip or a crash-tested crate, and keep your dog in the back seat.

Protect the car

A waterproof seat cover keeps fur, mud and scratches off the upholstery and gives your dog a non-slip surface. Have a look at our car seat cover if you travel often.

On the road

• Stop every two hours for water and a short walk
• Never leave your dog alone in a parked car
• Crack the windows slightly but keep your dog from leaning out