If there is one thing dogs love, it is riding in a car. For some dogs, it is the happiest days of their lives. But, for others, it is a ride they will never do again. If you want an enjoyable experience riding with your pet, here are some tips:

Pack the essentials

Think of packing for your dog as if you are packing for a trip with your baby. You need to bring in the essential things your dog needs or face the consequences.

• Paper towels/stain and odor remover. This helps you clean up after your pet and deal with emergency situations with ease (eg. your dog goes where it isn't suppose to).
• Poop bags and a lot of it.
• A bowl of water.
• Foods and treats to keep your dog obedient.
• A dog carrier and harness.
• Pet seat cover

Effective driving with your dog

The most important thing in driving with your pet is to let them learn to associate that riding is an enjoyable experience. Most dog owners fail to realize that you can't just let your dog ride in your car and expect that he won't go berserk, especially if it's their first time. You need to teach them how to ride and how to appreciate it.

The trick is to make them feel comfortable riding with you, one step at a time. This means that before you take them to long trips, take shorter trips first.

Also make sure that each trip is a pleasant one. Take them to dog parks, beaches, or any place that you know they will enjoy. Don't drive them to the vet or anything that will associate a negative vibe as it will be embedded in them for life; thus an unpleasant riding experience.

Don't take car sickness lightly either. If they have one, treat it immediately as this too will prevent them from having fun riding in the car.

Bring your dog's usual food. A sudden switch in your dog's usual food can upset their stomach and you wouldn't want that in a trip.

Don't feed them full before the trip. A dog with a full tummy and a car in motion can have you in a very bad situation. Feed them three to four hours before the trip and if you need to feed them on the road, make a pit stop.

Tips to Have a Safer Trip

Restrain your dog. Some people think restraining your dog in the car seems too obsessive, but if you stop in a sudden or encounter a crash, the restraint will prevent your dog from suffering injuries.

Don't let your dog ride in the front seat. Not only that it can be too distracting to the driver, but also when a crash happens the airbag could cause injuries to your pet.

Don't let your dog ride at the back of an open truck. It will be too easy to lose your dog this way as they can just jump or fall out of the truck bed.

Cars are one of the best ways to travel with your dog. With some preparations and a few safety precautions you and your pet will have an enjoyable ride, regardless of how short or long the trip is.

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