“It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them.” John Grogan’s lines clearly denote the role pets play in our lives. If you have a pet, you would love to be with it all the time, even while traveling. At the same time, traveling can be stressful for both you and your pet, especially if it’s a long trip. However, the following guide for pet-friendly travel can on a road trip with your pet:

• Have up-to-date pet tags
  Ensure that your pet has a microchip for identification, and the pet tags have your latest contact details in case your pet is lost. Also, carry a recent photo of your pet.
• Carry pet vaccination records
  Always carry your pet’s vaccination records as some states require them at interstate crossings. The vaccination records also come in handy if the pet gets sick on the trip.
• Pack pet essentials
  A guide for pet-friendly travel is always helpful while packing your pet’s stuff. Pack all the things that your pet requires on a daily basis, including their water bowl, food, medications, blankets, toys, poop bags, grooming supplies, towels, collar, and leash. Also, pack some extra sheets and newspapers, and don’t forget to carry a pet first-aid kit.
• Don’t leave your pet in the car
  No matter what the weather is, never leave your pet in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, the car can become a furnace in no time, and the unbearable cold can be uncomfortable for the pet during winters. Instead, you can roll down the windows and put a battery operated fan on during summers so that they don’t feel the heat.
• Understand their bathroom needs
  While going on long trips, give your pet some extra time for their bathroom needs. Once the pet is done, don’t forget to clean up; you can carry poop bags or extra newspapers for this.
• Give them a comfortable space
  Pack wisely if you have a pet on board so that you give them a dedicated space. Don’t pack the car to the brim and leave next to no space for your furry buddy. You can use a well-ventilated, collapsible, and spacious crate. Additionally, put in some toys and chewables for them to enjoy the trip.
• Keep them safe
  Don’t let your pet move around inside the vehicle or stick their head out of the window of a moving vehicle. Instead, you can attach seat belts to the crate and roll down the window.
• Don’t feed them right before a long drive
  Try and feed your pet 3-4 hours before departure, and give them a light meal. Also, don’t feed them in a moving car.

Following the tips in this guide for pet-friendly travel will make things easier for you while on the go, and it will make the trip enjoyable and comfortable for your pet as well.