Always pack your dog's important papers – registration, proof of his latest vaccinations, and a list of current medications. A photo of your pet is helpful too. No one intends to get separated from their dogs, but it can and does happen. Your dogs should wear their current tags and an identification tag with your name, home address, and phone number. You might consider snapping one of those EZ-Read brand barrel-type IDs onto your dog's collar – this allows you to stash a note with your hotel, car license tag number and other home-away-from-home information.
Doggie Bag
Whether you use a simple paper grocery bag or a soft-sided carry-on, consider stashing the following items in it for your canine:
- Canned or dry dog food.
- Can opener.
- Two bowls – one for food, one for water.
- A spare leash.
- Doggie treats.
- Doggie brush.
- A chewy – like a rawhide.
- A favorite ball or toy.
- Pooper-scooper w/baggies.
- Medications including heartworm pills.
Sense of Humor
Don't forget to pack your sense of humor. Remember, your favorite companion is along because you love him so much you couldn't bear to leave him behind. The excitement of a car ride along with the interruption of his usual routine may make him hyper, grumpy, extremely shy, or confused. He may experience loose bowels or car sickness. Getting upset and yelling won't make it better. The vacation that Fido ran everyone out of the car with his raucous gas will make a funny vacation story... one day!
