What to Bring on a Road Trip With Pets
What to Pack For Road Trips With Your Pet
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If your road trip copilot is your pet, it's important that he's comfortable and secure for the long haul. While you can hit the McDonald's drive-through, he's going to be more difficult to please (though no dog I know has ever turned down a french fry). We've rounded up our top picks to keep your cat or dog happy, safe, and motion-sickness-free when you hit the blacktop for your long weekend adventure.
A Cat Carrier
Since they are so inquisitive and agile, cats must be kept in a carrier while the car is moving for your safety and hers. This pet carrier ($70) can be hooked into the backseat of your cat and can be adjusted for size if you have more or less room. Bonus: it's good for cats and dogs!
A Harness
If your pooch travels in the backseat, make sure he's latched in securely with a padded harness that attaches to the seat belt ($19).
A Portable Water Bowl
Animals of all kinds (humans included) need to stay hydrated, and if your long weekend plans include long walks in addition to long car rides, providing your pet with a container for easy drinking is a nice touch. We like the Good2Go water bottle ($5), which flips open to become a bowl.
Plenty of Water
Whether you bring a case of bottles or fill up your own reusable containers, stocking water in the car will keep you and your pet hydrated and happy!
Travel Food Container
This thermos-looking contraption is a travel container ($12) that both stores your pet's food and provides bowls for food and water. Measure out the food ahead of time to ensure that it's enough to cover the duration of your trip.
A Kitty Litter Tray
Dogs don't embarrass easily with public potty displays, but cats are more discreet creatures. Bring along some disposable litter boxes ($17 for 4) to give her some privacy during her toilettes. If creating extra waste isn't your cat's thing, try this waterproof portable litter tray ($16) that can pop into the washing machine for easy clean up when she's done using it. (Don't forget the litter and a scoop, too!)
Poop Bags
If Kitty needs her litter, Poochie needs his poop scoops! Make sure you have enough dog waste clean-up bags ($5 for 50) for the car ride and for the trip so you don't get lumped into the inconsiderate tourist contingent.
A Car Seat
Available in three sizes, this pet booster seat ($140 to $190) accommodates pets up to 30 pounds and allows the little ones to watch the world go by their window. Just remember to still strap your pet to the seat belt with a harness. An added bonus: the pull-out drawer for convenient storage.
A Zip-Line Tether
For larger dogs or pups who like more free rein, a zip-line tether ($25) lets them check out what's happening on both sides of the car without checking in at the front.
A First-Aid Kit
Boo-boos happen, and whether it's Fido's nose poking into a hornet's nest or Fluffy rubbing up against a thorny bush, you'll want to have some tools and remedies on hand to patch them back up again. This first-aid kit ($20) contains 50 pieces for any medical issue — minor or severe — but make sure you also include your vet's contact information and the number for a nearby emergency hospital just in case.
A Cargo Ramp
For large dogs who need help getting in and out of an SUV's tailgate, try a sturdy ramp ($90). This trifold version weighs just 20 pounds but can handle dogs up to 200 pounds with its nonskid surface and secure tether to your car.
A Seat Extender
Some cars can't easily accommodate a kennel in the backseat without a good deal of wobbling and instability. But inflate a seat extender ($80) in the floor space, and suddenly the pet's crate can move full speed ahead. It's also great for larger dogs who lose their footing on a narrow backseat.
Treats
Riding in the car can be a stressful event for cats and dogs, so make sure you bring some nibbles to distract them when they are nervous and reward them when they are good! If your cat's a real snacker, bring salmon treats for her or bring these apple crisp treats for your pup.
Something Familiar
Whether it's a blanket, stuffed animal, or toy, bring one of your pet's favorite items to make him feel at home in the car and on the other end of your journey. He's about to embark on an exciting escapade, but sometimes even the most adventurous of pets need a little reminder of home.
