A secured dog, planned breaks and the right documents turn a stressful trip into an easy one.
A loose dog is a danger to itself and everyone in the car. Use a crash-tested crate, a fitted boot guard or a crash-tested harness with a short seatbelt tether, and never let a dog ride with its head out of the window.
Feed lightly a few hours before departure to reduce car sickness, and stop every couple of hours for water, a toilet break and a short leg-stretch. Never leave the dog in a parked car in warm weather, even briefly.
Cross-border travel usually needs a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination and a pet passport or health certificate, and some countries require tapeworm treatment. Rules vary and change, so check official requirements well in advance.
Correct answer: In a crash-tested crate, guard or harness
A secured dog in a crate, behind a boot guard or in a crash-tested harness protects itself and the people in the car.
Correct answer: Feed lightly a few hours before departure
A light stomach, fresh air and gradual habituation to the car all help reduce travel nausea.
Correct answer: Every couple of hours for water and a toilet break
Regular breaks for water, toileting and a stretch keep the dog comfortable and calm on long journeys.
Correct answer: Microchip, rabies vaccination and a pet passport or certificate
Most countries require a microchip, valid rabies vaccination and documentation, and rules vary — check well ahead.
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