Aaaaah Summer. Longer days, warmer evenings, long dog walks and road trips.
With forty six percent of households owning a pet and twenty four percent of those being dogs, it’s official: we’re a nation of dog-lovers. In 2014, twenty eight per cent of dog owners took their dog on holiday with them. Now, with ridesharing services like BlaBlaCar, it has become easier than ever to take your canine companion on a staycation.
If you’ve booked a holiday and are travelling in a car with your four-legged friend, read our guide on how to survive the dreaded journey:
Before You Set Off
- Make sure you have a suitable pet carrier. Buy your carrier a couple of months before your departure to make sure your pooch is used to it. Have treats available to reward your dog – starting from a minute at a time, building up to longer periods. For travel sick dogs we recommend a softer crate with the option of removable bedding.
- If your pooch can’t bear to be in a crate, another option is a harness. Remember to place a blanket underneath to protect the car furnishings!
- Check you have all the necessary food and travel water bowl available. Do not let your dog travel on a full stomach – no food before the journey for three to four hours. Limit the amount of water intake just before you set off.
- Make sure you’ve packed your dog’s favourite toy and a comforter.
If I fits I sits. Source: Pets Day Out
During The Car Journey With Your Dog
- Make sure the temperature of your car is right. Keep a window down slightly for ventilation.
- Don’t play any music too loudly – some dogs find calm music soothing, maybe try tuning into ClassicFM or BBC Radio 2.
- A lot of dogs suffer with travel sickness. This is more associated with the stress of travelling instead of the motions of the car. If your pooch is in a crate, consider covering it with a blanket or towel.
- Have regular breaks every two to three hours to allow your pooch to stretch his legs. This is important both for your dog and you! Make sure you keep up levels of hydration with the travel water bowl during these breaks.
- Keep your dog entertained with a toy that can’t get destroyed easily, such as a Kong.
Important Points to Remember
- Whether you’re traveling in your own car, or sharing a ride with BlaBlaCar, always cover the upholstery with blankets and towels to protect from damage.
- Carry wipes with you to quickly clean up any accidents and mess.
- Most importantly – enjoy your staycation with your pooch!
Casual. Source: BlaBlaCar
Our friends at BlaBlaCar is the UK’s leading long-distance ridesharing service, connecting drivers with empty seats to passengers travelling the same way. Together, you share the journey and the cost!
With over over 10M members, you’re safe in the knowledge that, like DogBuddy, they have an awesome trusted community.
Comment below on your favourite dog-friendly places to visit on a staycation.