For many people dogs are part of their family, and they wouldn’t want to leave them behind on a holiday. However, when taking your dog with you in the car you need to take some precautions.

The first thing to do is pack all the basic things that you use every day, whether home or away. This means a leash, dog food and bowls, a blanket or bed, some toys and treats, a towel etc. To cover all your bases, you might also want to add a spare leash and collar in case one breaks.

Next, you need to figure out how to restrain your four-legged friend while driving as unrestrained dogs can be very dangerous. A dog walking around freely in the car can be a serious distraction for the driver, especially is the dog decides for instance to jump on his lap or nudge him because he’s want a nice belly-scratch.

However, even the best mannered dog is dangerous when unrestrained. In case of an accident, the dog will be flying through the car and injuring both himself and the other passengers. So it’s in everyone’s best interest to keep him restrained. Smaller dogs can still be kept in the rear seat with a car harness that links to the seat belt. Bigger dogs are better kept in the boot in a dog cage or behind a dog guard or even both. If you do use a dog guard, make sure to choose one that fits properly and won’t collapse. The dog guards from www.travall.ie for example, are vehicle-specific which leads to a perfect fit.

It would also be a good idea to take a first aid kit for dogs with you wherever you go, just as you should for the human passengers. This should contain some bandages, dressings and gauze and some sticky tape to fasten them. Make sure to include a pair of scissors and some tweezers to take out ticks and splinters. If your dog is on medication you should, of course, take those with you as well. More information and advice on first aid can be found on the Blue Cross website. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/basic-first-aid-dogs.

Lastly, before leaving make sure you have the number of your vet and if possible that of a vet’s practice near your holiday destination. When travelling abroad make sure you haven’t forgotten your dog’s passport and that you have it close at hand. You may need to show this at some point. And this goes without saying, or at least it should, but never leave your dog unattended in the car. Now you and your dog are all set and ready to go. Enjoy your trip!

You can view our full range of Dog Safety Harnesses and Buckles here ...