Hey Dog Side Family,

Are you itching for adventure this spring? Ready to hit the road with your dog by your side? We don't blame you! There's something magical about taking a road trip with your dog. Recently, one of my best friends contacted me. She was planning her first road trip with her dog. It has always been a lifelong dream for her, and she reached out knowing I have hundreds of thousands of miles on the road with my dogs in our Airstream. Except for Alaska and Hawaii, my dogs have been to every state in the U.S. Their doggy passports have been stamped and noses fully fulfilled.

The conversation with her got me thinking about things I’ve learned over the past two decades traveling with dogs, and I want to share some of our conversation with you.

First things first, I recommended she create a google doc. My wife and I have one that we can both update as the date gets closer. In the beginning (before google) we created a list everytime we traveled. Our spreadsheet includes rows for the dogs, my wife, and myself all based on where we are going and the weather. Starting with a list makes it so much easier to deduct something you don't need than to have to think up the items you will need every time you travel. For example, we only use their life vests when we go paddle boarding, or bring our little dog’s backpack when we plan to hike for a few miles. 

Pack your vehicle smart. It can be annoying digging through piles of suitcases and bags to find your dog's leash, poop bags, water, bowl, pills, or food. Keep all of their essentials in one easy-to-reach spot, whether it's a crate, a backpack, or a designated section of the car. This will make your life a lot easier when you need to grab something quickly, and it'll help your dog feel more secure and settled on the road when things can be unpredictable.

Next, make sure your dog has plenty of water. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it's easy to forget when you're in the excitement of a road trip. Bring along a few water bottles and a collapsible bowl, or invest in a hydration system that attaches to your dog's crate. Keeping your dog hydrated is crucial, especially in hot weather or when you're traveling long distances.

Speaking of long distances, take breaks! Your dog needs to stretch their legs and take potty breaks just like you do. Plan to stop every few hours to give your dog a chance to get out of the car, go for a walk, and do their business. Make sure to survey the area for broken glass, stickers, foxtails, or other foreign matter that can create unwanted vet visits. Remember dog’s don’t have shoes, so we need to keep an eye out for what they will be walking on. I once let my dogs out in this (what I thought) was a beautiful field in Texas at sunset. Turns out it was filled with stickers in the grass. I was so confused why the dogs didn't want to walk around. I was lucky that no one had a problem.

When you're on the road, make sure your dog is properly secured. We suggest either a crate or secured with a harness and a seat belt attachment. This will keep them safe in case of an accident and prevent them from distracting you while you're driving. 

Finally, make sure your dog has proper identification. Before you hit the road, make sure your dog's collar has a tag with your contact information, as well as any necessary vaccination tags. If your dog is microchipped, make sure the information is up-to-date so you can be easily reunited if you get separated. 

We hope these tips help you plan the perfect road trip with your pup. It's a great way to bond, explore new places, and create unforgettable memories. 

Head rubs and belly scratches

Gary, Monkey, and Lily