The weather is changing fast in the UAE, yet there is a small window to go for a road trip with your dog. Throughout winter my Instagram was flooded with photos of human friends and their dogs enjoying all kinds of outdoor activities from glamping to hiking. So, if you want to do something special with your fur companions, here are 5 tips to plan for a road trip with your dog.
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Over to the tips
It’s not so difficult to plan a road trip with your dog if everything is planned well. From route to routine, food to vaccination records and a few more things. So, lets dive in.
Plan for the trip
From checking weather reports to finalising a route, plan before setting out on the road trip. This will ease your experience. If it’s a long road trip of 3-4 hours or more, make provision for a 10-15-minute break for your dogs to relieve themselves. A crucial part of planning an overnight trip with your dog is to book a pet-friendly accommodation. There are several pet-friendly hotels across the UAE, especially in Ras Al Khaimah.
Pack food, water and a few other things
The next step is to pack food, water, supplements and medicines (if your dog needs to take them regularly). Also carry food and water bowls, even if the hotel provides. Some dogs like to eat out of their own bowls, mine does. Its also a good idea to take their favourite toys, bed and blanket. Also, carry poop bags to clean up after them.
Carry vaccination record
It is always advisable to carry your dog’s vaccination record along with the Municipality tag in case your dog doesn’t wear it all the time.
Take a first aid kit along
Since it’s better to be safe than sorry, a good idea is to carry a basic first aid kit. Things like salt water, ointment to clean wounds, paw wipes & calming balms and tick removers tend to come in handy.
Never leave them unattended
This is extremely important. DO NOT leave them unattended at any point in time, not in the car, nor in the hotel room or places that you will explore together. Remember it is unfamiliar territory for them. Also, it is advisable to not let them go off-leash unless you are familiar with the surroundings.
One more thing to consider
Along with the 5 tips to plan for a road trip with your dog, there is one more thing to consider. Our dream is to rent a caravan and travel across Europe with Mr. Popo. But the boy doesn’t like to travel. Even an hour-long car ride makes him unhappy. He is extremely routine oriented, likes familiarity and home is his happiest place. So, if your dog is like mine, a road trip may not be a great idea unless they are familiarised with the idea over time. Sudden changes can make them anxious and ruin what would have been an enjoyable trip. Even if your dog likes to explore and enjoy such trips, they tend to be routine oriented. While it is not possible to follow the exact routine as you would while at home, it might help to be slightly consistent with their meal, walk and sleep time.
Note: This article is meant for information and awareness only and should not be considered as expert opinion.
