6 Must-Have Items for Traveling with Dogs

So, you’re getting ready to hit the open road with your furry BFF. There are all sorts of fun adventures the two of you can encounter together, making memories along the way. But do you have everything you need for traveling with your dog pal to keep them safe and comfortable? Here is a list of 6 must-have items that every traveler should have on hand for an epic journey with Fido or Trixie.

1. Multi-Purpose Leashes for Dogs

Bringing a leash is essential, but getting a multi-purpose leash can make your life even easier and be safer for your pet. Find one that is reflective or, at the very least, has reflective stitching. This can help with visibility if you and your pet decide to stretch your legs or take a potty break after dark. You should also find one with a number of snap hooks attached should you need to shorten their lead for whatever reason. Many professionals don’t recommend retractable leashes anymore, and some dog parks have banned them altogether.

2. Dog Harnesses

Finding a harness that fits snugly but comfortably on your pet is crucial for control and safety. When you purchase one, it’s highly recommended you take your dog with you to a pet supply store, rather than going solo and guessing or buying one online. If you’ve bought one for the pet you’ll be traveling with before and know the size, you can wing it and order it online when it’s time to replace it. Once you find one you like that fits well, it’s a good idea to buy two, in case you can’t find one or the model is no longer available later on.

3. Car Safety Harnesses for Dogs

It’s important to have a car safety harness to attach to your dog’s harness once they’re in the vehicle. This can help in case of an accident so they don’t launch and injure themselves. Sometimes referred to as dog safety belts, they’ll also keep your dog from getting too far out the window if they’re straining for a snootful of fresh air. Some are adjustable so that you can customize the length to match the size of your dog. If you’re unsure of which to buy, ask a pet specialist at the store you’re visiting to help you decide.

4. Travel Food & Water Bowls for Pets

With convenience in mind, manufacturers of pet supplies are fully aware of the tendencies of Americans to travel with pets these days. There are some great food and water bowls you can get that collapse and fit into an accompanying travel bag for convenience available now. Another option for water is a bottle that includes a receptacle for the water to drain into. If you’d rather, there are silicone attachments for water bottles, too. Either way, they’ll easily fit into your doggy travel kit with the rest of Buffy’s gear. You can also purchase a waterproof travel bag to keep their food dry and ant-free.

5. First Aid Kit for Pets

While you might assume any old first aid kit for pets will do, you should be aware that some of them come with contents specific to different-sized dogs. Most, however, will cover small, medium, and large breeds. Check before purchasing to ensure the one you’re eyeing is appropriate. They should contain gauze, non-stick bandages, adhesive tape, Milk of Magnesia or activated charcoal in case they eat/swallow something poisonous, hydrogen peroxide (3%) to induce vomiting, a digital thermometer, and an eye dropper.

6. Low-Profile Travel Bed for Dogs

You can always bring your own, but if it’s too bulky and takes up too much room, there are some comfy and stylish options for travel dog beds available.

Now that you have your list, you can start checking some of the items off with pet supplies from the Animal Rescue Site Store. For instance, there’s a pet silicone water bottle attachment available, and each purchase feeds 35 shelter pets. Check it out, and safe travels!