Road-Tripping With Your Dog: Calm, Safe and Sick-Free

Secure first, always

An unrestrained dog is a danger to themselves and everyone in the car. Use a crash-tested harness clipped to a seatbelt, a secured crate, or a barrier for the boot. In a sudden stop, a loose dog becomes a projectile — and a frightened one can bolt the moment a door opens.

Beat car sickness

Many dogs feel queasy, especially youngsters. Travel on a light stomach, keep the car cool and well aired, and take breaks. Building up from short, positive trips helps a nervous dog learn the car predicts good things. For persistent sickness, your vet can prescribe genuinely effective medication.

Pack for them

Bring water and a bowl, their usual food, a familiar blanket or toy, poo bags, a lead, and any medication. A copy of vaccination records and a current photo help if the unthinkable happens. Make sure the microchip details and ID tag are up to date before you leave.

Breaks, heat and never-alone

Stop every couple of hours for a wee, a drink and a leg-stretch on the lead. Above all, never leave a dog in a parked car — interiors turn deadly hot within minutes, even on mild days with the windows cracked. Plan stops where the dog can come too.