How to go on a road trip with a dog? 7 tips for an enjoyable trip

Have you been dreaming of your next road trip? Taking your dog on a road trip can be a super delightful experience yet stressful. The appeal of the open road is quite engaging, but traveling with dogs in the car can also be challenging. Dogs can get wild and behave in ways that aren't secure, like dangling out of the window or bouncing in your lap when you're moving at highway speeds.

So how can you ensure that you and your dog stay secure and comfortable during long hauls on the road? We have compiled a list of the ticks and tips for a road trip with a dog planner to overcome the challenges.

• Take systematic breaks: Travelling without a break can make your dog fidgety. Give your dog the possibility to use the bathroom whenever you stop! Give them water and let them stretch. While your dog is definitely the loving creature on Earth, we know that if we are sick of being in the car, chances are he is as well. If you are driving for more than 2 hours, then stop and let him go to the bathroom, wander around with him, and give him water and a goody or meal.
• Keep proper toys for your dog: When traveling with dogs in the car, people usually overlook the importance of packing quality toys. Toys keep your pup entertained and provide mental stimulation. Some dogs destroy their toys quickly. Dogs love ripping them apart and spreading the stuffing all over the place, leaving a mess for us to clean up. When you are on a road trip, you should pack durable toys, so they don't fall apart in a day. A few toys that dogs like and are suitable to keep include a frisbee, ball, or another toy (consider a glow-in-the-dark one for nighttime visits).
• Being tolerant of the mess: Dogs are chaotic little creatures. Some shed, some spit, and all of them get messy. The best way to deal is to tolerate it. Please don't get mad at them for being sloppy. Hopefully, the dirt means they were enjoying a lot, which is the entire point. If you are worried about your car and seat covers, then a portable car vacuum will go a long way. If your dog rolls around in poop or heavy mud, you can take a short hose in your car and flush the dog off at the nearest water hookup. Quick-dry towels are also suitable for drying dogs off when they get wet.
• Making a checklist of items: Ensure you have all the trip necessities for your pup within reach.

Start a road trip with a dog planner. Here's what you'll need:

• Water bowl: You will want your dog to have access to fresh water throughout your trip. A spill-proof bowl is helpful while you're on the go.

You might want to check out our chill-out cooler bowl, you can place the bowl in the freezer, once frozen this bowl will allow hours of cool eating. The cool gel inside maintains the ice longer, keeping dogs' food and water cool and fresh.

• Food: Make sure to bring enough food for the period you will be on a trip! Also, ensure the food is in an airtight container so it doesn't get stale or stink up the car.
• Vaccination card: Some hotels will need you to show your pup's vaccination records. Thus, the convenient way is to consult a vet and get professional guidance regarding the necessary vaccinations and medications.
• First aid kit: keep antiseptic wipes, gauze, tweezer, scissors, and petroleum jelly.
• Dog bed: Whether for security or convenience, having a dog bed or a relaxing area for your dog can make the trip more pleasant.

Check out our selection of comfortable and relaxing beds for your dogs.

• Treats: Bring treats, like jerky sticks or dental chews, so your four-legged baby listens to your commands and behaves nicely. You can also freeze a Kong with peanut butter, greek yogurt, and delights. And don't take advantage of some training treats to benefit from training opportunities while you're out.
• Finding the right hotel: Some websites will let you know how pet-friendly certain areas are. It would be beneficial if you begin your road trip with a dog planner. You can also filter results on hotel websites to see which ones allow dogs. Some hotels claim to allow dogs but impose certain conditions, for example, only allow one or two dogs up to 20 pounds. Some dog only sometimes does fine when visiting unfamiliar locations for the night. So always try to get a dog bed, a blanket, or something else with familiar smells to make the dog feel more satisfied in this new environment.

In the United Arab Emirates, there are a lot of pet-friendly hotels. Here is a recommended list of places you can stay and enjoy a day or two with your dogs.

Al Dhafra Beach Hotel Abu Dhabi

Located in Abu Dhabi, you can enjoy a staycation with your dog a little further away from home, Al Dhafra Beach Hotel will welcome you and your dog and you’ll get access to a quaint Arabian Gulf beach, which means there’s lots of space for your dog to splash and cool down.

JA Hatta Fort Hotel

If you were thinking of visiting Hatta you can stay at JA Hatta Fort Hotel Dubai. This cozy mountain retreat is now dog-friendly and with plenty of spacious greenery and landscaped grounds, the Hajar Mountain resort is welcoming pooches of all sizes.

Al Qalaa Lodge Fujairah

If you are looking to be surrounded by farms and mountains, you could check out Al Qalaa Lodge in Fujairah.

Banan Beach Ras Al Khaimah

If you are going on a road trip to Ras Al Khaimah, it is known for its outstanding nature, leisure, adventure, and authentic offerings. You can stay at Banan Beach, they offer a choice of chalets, loft tents, and small tents for the dog-loving crowds.

• Get the dog’s energy out: Give your dog some physical exercise before starting your trip. Let the dog run around, play fetch, or frisbee. A good match of tug is ideal for smaller areas, or you can grasp a flirt pole and let your dog do some chasing. If you're brief on space, there are still many ways you can get your dog's energy out.
• Do not leave your dog in the car when it’s too hot outside: Use your common sense when traveling with dogs. When left in the sun on a summer day, your car's interior gets hot. If it's too hot in the car for you to be satisfied, it's also too hot for your pet. Be mindful of this, and don't leave your dog isolated for a long time in the heat. Dogs can die in cars, and you don't want to lose your best friend due to your negligence. If you must depart them for a few minutes, crack the windows, and consider putting a portable battery-operated fan in your car to keep them cool. Deliberative windshield covers also help keep the temperature down in your automobile.

Your trip can be filled with moments and memories so you might want to take a look at these tips on how to take better pictures of your dogs.

1. Get down to your pet's level.
2. Focus on the eyes.
3. Avoid busy backgrounds.
4. Use natural light.
5. Help your pet look its best.
6. Talk to your pet during the shoot.
7. Highlight your pet's personality.
8. Frame your shot in different ways.

We hope these tips help you take better pictures of your dogs, you can always tag us on Instagram!

To conclude, road trips with your best buddy will become extraordinary when you plan. It is preferred to follow road trips with the dog tips suggested above. With adequate preparation,  eliminate the excessive hassle and have lots of fun. Following the road trip with dog tips offered, you and your dog can appreciate the journey and make everlasting memories.

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