We have always taken the boys everywhere with us. They were seasoned hotel guests and were always on their best behavior.  Now it’s time for the little pup to follow in their footsteps and enjoy his own adventures with us, as we explore new places.

While packing for our impromptu road trip this week, I realized how long it’s been since I gathered belongings for us and our adventure buddy to spend a few days away from home.  We went to the beach over Labor Day but we only stayed one night, so aside from a bag of treats and food for 3 meals, we really didn’t need many other dog supplies. This trip was longer, and we ventured into new states, National Parks, and wilderness trails!

Safety First!

Plan your route. Some of our trip took us through locations with no GPS signal for cell phones so check out the map before you go and don’t rely solely on modern technology.  Ensure your car is ready for a long drive.  Fill up your washer fluid, check your wipers, check your oil and tire pressure and make sure all your doors lock and open easily and reliably.  Carry a small amount of cash and pack your car so that valuables are not on display.  Always lock your car when you leave it and don’t leave your pets unattended in your vehicle!

Know Before You Go!

Researching your planned points of interest will help you prepare for your pets to enjoy the trip as much as you. Some national and state parks do not allow pets at all, while others allow them in limited areas (always on a leash!) such as designated trails or roads.  Our original plan was driving to Yellowstone but due to a winter storm and our time constraint we had to modify that.  We ended up visiting Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.  RMNP and Yellowstone NP are very specific on where pets can and cannot go.  A lot of National and State parks have unique wildlife populations and pets can disturb them, or worse; become a meal for them! Be sure to always obey park rules, most importantly – picking up after your pet! If you’re camping this is even more important as pet food, waste and noises can attract predators such as bears, coyotes, wolves and birds of prey (watch out chihuahua parents!).

Another thing we learned by checking out the website for Yellowstone is that coyotes and wolves roam free there, they can spread parvovirus, distemper and mange! These are all very conditions that your dog can catch so be sure your pet is up to date on vaccines as recommended by your veterinarian, and that they stay away from animal waste and stick to designated pathways. If you’re visiting National Parks be sure to check out the website of the park for individual recommendations.

Don’t forget to check the weather before you leave.  We currently live in Central Texas where it is 74f and sunny.  We ended up staying in Colorado Springs where there was snow on the ground and temperatures ranging from 34-16f! A vast difference from the climate we are accustomed to.  We packed only winter clothes, lots of layers, spare shoes, and a fleece sweater for the pup.  Don’t get stuck having to go shopping when you get there because you packed shorts for a weekend in the snow!

Supplies for days…

Depending on how long you’re going to be gone, will determine how many days of supplies you need but you should pack at least 1 day extra in case of a change in circumstances or an emergency.  If your pet has a medical condition, you need to bring medication, records, and look up vet hospital locations or emergency clinics before you go.  When we traveled with Loki and Kato this also involved us searching for clinics with a cardiologist due to their heart condition.  If your pet has a serious condition, you may want to look up specialty clinics too.  If you’re able to, carry a prescription for medication, in case meds get lost or misplaced.  If your trip entails hiking, walking, adventuring or camping, you should also bring things like pet safe bug spray, sun screen and Benadryl, in case of allergic reactions from bug or snake bites. Keep your eyes peeled for hazards!

Keep in mind that pets are susceptible to climate changes just like we are, they need to stay cool in hot climates, and be kept warm in winter weather.  At one point we were at an elevation of 12,200 feet above sea level, I know I felt the effects of this so I’m sure pets do as well.  Don’t allow your pet to exert themselves too much in weather they aren’t used to.  Remember to pack basic supplies such as food, water, treats, bowls, leashes (different lengths and spares!), harness, collar, blankets, crate, toy(s), meds, poop bags, and a copy of vaccine history. If your pet has a sensitive stomach or gets car sick you may also want to ask your vet about medication for these conditions.

Hotel Life.

Our favourite pet friendly hotel is La Quinta.  They don’t charge a pet fee and we have always found them to be accommodating in our room requests. Plus they have free breakfast – for humans! After making a reservation I call the hotel directly and advise them we are travelling with a dog and request a room near one of the exit doors to make for easier bathroom breaks.  This also means bringing supplies from the car is more convenient too. Leaving pets in a hotel room alone is not something I would do, however if you choose to, I would put the do not disturb sign on the door and advise the hotel staff not to perform house keeping on your room.  If you do leave your pet alone in a hotel room, crate them; for their own safety and that of hotel staff who may enter the room.   

Travelling with pets can be tough, but a little extra preparation will ensure everyone has a great time making memories, while remaining safe. 

Lastly, don’t forget to take a ton of pictures, and if you do; tag us in your adventures on social media!