Posts tagged medium

Question : What kind of travel accessories do you need for a medium to large sized dog?
Gearing up for a mini roadtrip and we’re bringing the pup with us. Any product recommendations on what we may need besides the basic food & water bowls?

Thanks!
Lexus Sedan, we usually keep blankets in the back seat but no harnesses and such since we usually go on short local trips.

Best answer:

You’ll need some way to confine the dog to one area of the car, otherwise he will be all over the place which is not only a hazard for him, but a driving hazard for you. You didn’t say what kind of car you have, but if you have an SUV or a van with a folding back seat, you may be able to fit his crate into the back of the vehicle. Crating him for the ride would be a great way to keep him comfortable and safe.

If you have a sedan or other small car where the crate does not fit, I would highly recommend a canine seat belt harness. They look like this: http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2755289 and they have a loop through the back that you slip the seatbelt through to hold the dog into place. They can sit and lay down with the harness on, it is comfortable for them, but it does keep them in place in that seat. They make them for dogs of all sizes, so you will be able to find one that fits your dog’s size.

A harness is a great thing to have on the road with a dog because it keeps them still and safe, and God forbid if you get into an accident it will protect him the same way your seatbelt will protect you. I have known dogs to go flying through cars that have been struck, it did not end out well for the dog, so it is very important to keep your dog secure when he rides.

Aside from that, you may want to bring along one or two of his favorite toys or a rawhide so he has something to keep him occupied during the drive. Also, bring along plenty of plastic bags, because you never know what kind of mishaps might occur while you’re out on the road… some dogs get carsick, so you’ll want to have supplies on hand to clean that up should it happen. Of course a leash goes without saying, so you can walk him during rest stops. You may also want to bring along some Benadryl in case he gets wild or anxious in the car… a dose of Benadryl appropriate for his size will knock him out, making the ride much less stressful for all parties involved should he get out of hand.

Good luck on your trip!