The month of June marks the beginning of summer, and many Long Island pet owners are already planning their summer vacations. If you’re leaving your dog behind this time, Dan’s Pet Care can provide the quality care they need while you’re away. Let’s face it: some pets just don’t travel well. And even if your dog loves trips, it might be impossible to take them with you for a variety of reasons. The specialists at Dan’s Pet Care know that it’s hard to say goodbye, even for a few days (that’s why we’ve found so many ways to give you peace of mind while you’re separated from your pet).
If you’re opting to bring your dog along on vacation, it can be a wonderful opportunity to make memories together. But before you hop in the car or on the plane, make sure you’ve packed everything you need to care for them properly!
Dragging around a collection of unnecessary pet care items can put a damper on your vacation fun. In this article, we’ll explore a few supplies that are truly essential for traveling with dogs – and we’ve also included a few for cats.
Travel Supplies You’ll Definitely Need
If you’re hitting the road or the skies with your dog, don’t forget these essentials!
Portable food and water dishes
Your dog’s regular dishes are probably too bulky and heavy to travel well. Opt for a collapsible travel bowl instead – they’re lightweight and can even be clipped to your backpack or luggage. Of course, these are just as essential when you’re traveling with cats.
Environmentally friendly poop bags
Can you scoop your dog’s poop away from home and still be environmentally responsible? The answer is yes! With poop bags made from recycled material, you can give discarded plastics a second life.
Car barrier for road trips
If you’re taking your dog (or cat) on a road trip, safety should be your first priority. Even if your dog seems happy in the back seat, it only takes a few moments of distraction to cause a serious accident. With a car barrier, you can keep your pet safely in the back seat, without confining them to a crate.
A pet tracker to keep your best friend safe
What if your dog got loose on a Mediterranean beach or a Colorado slope? Equipping them with a pet tracker can give you peace of mind. Trackers can let you know your pet’s location at all times. Many of them can also help you analyze their activity level and overall health.
Travel Supplies You Might Need
Depending on your destination and your pet, you could be really glad you thought to pack these items.
Booties for foot protection
Are you planning to walk on hot pavement or snowy surfaces while traveling with your pet? If so, investing in some paw booties is a fantastic idea. Your pet can’t tell you whether a walking surface is uncomfortable, so when in doubt, protect their feet!
Pet backpack for easy transport
If your pet is small, and you’ll need to carry them around while on vacation, a pet backpack can make your life much easier. It’s a good idea to “practice” with the backpack at home before using it for the first time on your trip. Give your pet some time to get used to the idea by taking short walks around the neighborhood and offering lots of positive reinforcement.
Anxiety medication and supplements
Some pets love to travel – but other pets find it highly stressful. If your pet tends to be an anxious traveler, ask your vet for some medication that can help them stay calm. You can also purchase supplements over the counter that may help your dog or cat with anxiety. However, it’s best to ask for your vet’s advice before purchasing these.
A life jacket for safe swimming
If you’re planning to get in the water with your pet, a life jacket can help keep them safe. Even if your dog is a good swimmer in the pool, oceans and lakes can expose them to dangerous currents, as well as hazards like wildlife and boats.
Other Travel Recommendations
What else should you pack in your pet’s to-go bag?
Vaccination records
Prescription medications
Treats and toys
A high-quality harness
Wet wipes to clean up any messes
Meet Your Pet Care Partners
At Dan’s Pet Care, our fully trained and licensed specialists are here to help with all of your pet care needs. Whether you need grooming, day care, walking services, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered. Call us today at (516) 551-1613 or fill out our online contact form!
