Travelling with your dog can be one of the best things in life, whether you’re off on a weekend road trip, visiting the family, or just enjoying a countryside holiday. But let’s face it – having your dog along on a journey is a whole different ball game from just deciding to go for a walk. You need to get their supplies sorted, so they stay safe, comfy and happy from start to finish.
Packing the right things can be a big help in reducing stress levels, keeping your dog in their normal routine, and making sure you’re ready for anything that might come up. Here are 5 must-have dog supplies that every pet owner should probably have in the cupboard before they set off.
This is a collaborative post.
A Dog Car Seat or Travel Crate
A safe and comfy journey doesn’t start when you get to where you’re going – it begins the moment you set off. Whether you’re doing a run around the block or off on a long haul road trip, keeping your dog safe inside the car is just as much about keeping you safe as them. That’s why one of the first dog supplies to buy for your paws on is a dog car seat or a travel crate. These dog products help prevent your pet from wandering all over the car, giving you a bit of peace of mind and making the drive a lot less hairy.
A dog car seat or travel crate also gives your dog their own spot to chill out, which can be a lifesaver on long journeys. Some dogs just feel more at ease with a bit of a den to snuggle up in, especially on long drives or busy roads.
For smaller breeds, a booster-style car seat is perfect – they get a comfy spot to park up in, but still get to stick their head out the window. Travel crates are great too, especially for puppies, dogs that get nervous easily or just need a bit of security. Just make sure you get the right size for your dog (you don’t want to cramp them in or give them too much room to roam) and that it’s nice and ventilated. A comfy ride is key to a happy journey for all involved and means your dog is going to rock up to your destination feeling fresh, relaxed and raring to go.
A Comfortable Harness and Lead
When you’re taking a break at some service station, going for a stroll along a scenic walking trail, or just wandering around a town that’s pet-friendly, having the right gear for walking your dog can make all the difference. Your pet might be a well-behaved dog, but all the strange sights, sounds and smells can get to them and make them want to explore even more, so a harness and a lead give you some control and let your dog explore safely at the same time.
A harness is usually a better idea than just a collar, especially if your dog has a tendency to pull on the lead or gets distracted in busy areas. The harness spreads the pressure out across your dog’s chest and shoulders rather than just their neck, which is a lot more comfortable for them and helps stop them getting strained. It also gives you a bit more control if your dog suddenly spots something they like the look of or gets startled by some new surroundings.
When it comes to choosing a harness, you want to look for one with adjustable straps that will give your dog a secure and comfy fit that’s not going to chafe or get in the way. Pair that with a lead that’s strong and sturdy enough to handle any type of walking you’ll be doing, and you’re good to go. If you’ll be out early or late, you might also want a leash with some reflective bits on it to make it easier to see in the dark, and one that’s padded can make the whole thing a bit more comfortable for your dog.
Portable Food, Water and Feeding Essentials
Keeping your dog’s routine as normal as possible while you’re away can really help them feel more comfortable in their new surroundings. With all the changes in location and schedule that come with travel, it’s not uncommon for dogs to get a bit fussy with their food or have trouble drinking, so taking all your dog’s usual food along with the right bits and bobs to feed him can be a big help.
Packing enough of your dog’s regular food means you don’t have to rely on some weird new food while you’re away, and that can help avoid all sorts of digestive troubles and make mealtimes a lot less stressful. Portable feeding things like collapsible bowls and little containers that are easy to take with you can also be a lifesaver. You can just pop them in your bag and pull them out whenever you need to give your dog a snack or a drink.
And don’t forget to bring fresh water. That’s especially important when it’s hot or you’re on a long journey. And if your dog likes treats, they can be a great way to reward good behaviour or just make things a bit more fun while you’re away.
Poop Bags and Cleaning Supplies
Just as you pack a picnic lunch and a first aid kit, having a stash of cleaning supplies on hand makes the whole trip run much more smoothly. Plus, being a considerate pet owner wherever you go is just good sense.
Poop bags are essentials for any trip – a quick walk around the block, a visit to the local park or a big adventure in a new place. Having them handy lets you clean up after your dog in a jiffy and keep public spaces enjoyable for everyone. And of course, it’s always a good idea to have a few extra hygiene items on hand. Anyone who’s ever had a dog knows that unexpected messes can and do happen, especially when your dog is in new and unfamiliar surroundings.
Pet-safe cleaning wipes can be a lifesaver for getting your dog’s paws clean after a muddy romp, or for cleaning up small accidents along the way, while an odour-neutralising spray can keep your car or holiday accommodation smelling fresh and clean. And a small towel is a really useful thing to have on hand, especially on rainy days, or if you’re heading to the beach or countryside.
Toys and Treats
Travel can be a real adventure for dogs, but all the new sights and smells and the long periods of just hanging around can get your dog feeling a bit bored or restless if you’re not careful. Whether you’re heading off on a long road trip, settling into a new place, or just hanging out at a dog-friendly cafe, bringing a few of your dog’s favourite toys and treats along can really help keep them happy and relaxed.
When you’re packing for your trip, try to choose toys and treats that are durable enough to withstand a bit of rough handling and that your dog is already familiar with. A rubber chew toy, a rope toy, some interactive games, training treats and natural chews are all good options. And don’t forget to bring your dog’s favourite treats along. They can be great for rewarding good behaviour, encouraging your dog to mind its manners in new places or just for adding a bit of extra fun to their day.