The worst part of vacations is having to leave your pets at home. The great news is, with pet-friendly accommodations becoming more common, you may not have to! If you’re gearing up for a road trip with your dogs, you’ll need to prep your truck before hitting the road to ensure they are as comfy as possible.
Create a Space
SUV drivers have an easier time with this spaciousness, as they can simply secure a travel-sized crate in their car’s cargo area and call it a day. Unfortunately, truck and sedan drivers have a more difficult time creating a space for their pet.
The backseat is likely the best place for your pup. Create a comfy space for them to ride. Placing their dog bed, blankets, and familiar toys in a spot on the floor will help them settle down. The extra cushion will also help dampen the car’s vibrations.
If your dog is notorious for clambering into the front seat with you, invest in a dog car barrier. These cargo net walls keep your pup from climbing over the center console. They will stay safely in the back, and the barrier minimizes the chances of your dogs distracting you while driving.
Pack the Essentials
You’ve already packed your dog’s food and bowls. Essentials cover things necessary for the drive itself. Packing these items in a separate container will make it much easier to give your dog water or take them for a walk when you stop for gas. You don’t want to rummage through your luggage to find something mid-trip!
For simplicity’s sake, we recommend a plastic, closable bin that you can place in the backseat with your dog. A lid is essential to keep your pup from getting into anything they aren’t supposed to—a situation like that is annoying, messy, and potentially distracting while driving.
Here are some supplies to include in your bin:
- Leash
- Treats
- A few toys
- A portable water bowl
- Cleaning supplies (paper towels and car-safe stain spray)
- An extra dog towel or blanket
Creating a supply bin ensures you’ll always know where everything is and that you’ll be prepared for every situation.
Lock Your Windows
If your dog is loose in the backseat, they will almost certainly climb onto the door’s armrest to look outside. When they do, there is a good chance they’ll step on the button that operates the window.
Lock your windows before putting your dog in the car so that you won’t have to worry about them rolling the windows down while you’re on the highway.
Protect Your Seats
The odds that your dog will stay on the floor of your car are low. Protect your seats to avoid any upsetting damage to your car. If you’re looking for an affordable option, securing an old towel or blanket to the seats is a good way to prevent any damage.
The best way to protect your seats is using truck seat covers. You’ll want something durable that can hold up to your dog’s nails. Click here to read about which truck seat cover materials are the most durable.
Now that you’ve prepped your truck, you’re ready for a road trip with your dogs! Don’t forget to take them out for frequent water and potty breaks, and you’re all set for a great time with your furry friends.