Road Travel with your Dog
Photo Courtesy of Brigitte
Article from www.the-kennel-club.org.uk
Edited by Lauren Trebbin
Travelling by road can be a stressful experience for dogs and it is important that they feel safe in this environment. There are many hazards on the road that you should take into account before starting your journey.
Edited by Lauren Trebbin
Travelling by road can be a stressful experience for dogs and it is important that they feel safe in this environment. There are many hazards on the road that you should take into account before starting your journey.
- Gradually accustom your dog to car travel by firsttaking your dog on short journeys.
- Always ensure your dog has plenty of ventilation and shade in a car and that fresh drinking water is readily available.
- Never leave your dog unattended in a car for long periods of time, especially in hot weather.
- When taking your dog on a long journey, ensure you make regular stops to exercise your dog. Always remember to clean up after your dog in any public place.
- Ensure your dog is kept on a lead in all public places.
- Make sure your dog wears an identification collar tag with your current contact details written on it.
- It is advisable that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address (including postcode) of the owner engraved or written on it, or an indentification tag. Your telephone number is optional.
- It is highly recommended that your dog is microchipped and registered with a recognised microchip company as this can prove extremely effective in locating a lost pet. It is vital to the effectiveness of all microgchip companies that people keep their records up to date, informing them of any change in circumstances.
- Take a photograph of your dog so that you can accurately describe it should it go missing, as well as giving you an up to date image you could use on Lost Pet posters.
- Train your dog not to bark or move around excessively whilst your vehicle is moving, as this can be very distracting to the driver.
- Transport your dog safely, preferably by using a special dog guard, dog cage or canine harness.
- Ensure your dog is in good health before travelling. With pet insurance, you can provide your dog with the best possible treatment if an accident or illness occurs.
- Ensure your dog is sociable and obedient. This can be done through attending classes and going to dog parks