Before a long car trip, take your pet on short car rides in its carrier to help it get used to the experience. If your pet associates the carrier with vet visits, try taking it in the carrier to fun places, like a dog park, to create positive associations.
Keep small animals in their carriers while in the car, for both their safety and yours. Larger dogs should ride in the back seat with a harness to prevent both driver distraction and injuries to the dog or passengers.
Don’t let dogs stick their heads out of car windows. Dirt or trash in the air could injure their eyes, or they may try to jump out. All pets should be in a carrier if riding in the back of a pickup truck.
Cars can heat up quickly, so never leave a pet unattended in a vehicle.
Stop at a rest stop or other safe area every 2 hours to allow your pet to drink water and go to the bathroom. Keep pets leashed at all times during stops. Be sure to bring along dry food to feed your pet on its regular schedule.
If your pet gets car sick, talk to your vet. They might suggest feeding a small meal before the trip or recommend medication to help prevent your pet from throwing up.
To transport horses, you can either tow them in a trailer yourself or hire a transport company. If you rent a horse trailer, practice driving with it attached to your vehicle beforehand. Make overnight arrangements for the trailer, as not all hotels allow horse trailers to park overnight.
