T
he dog days of summer may be over but end-of-summer road trips and fall leaf-peeping adventures are next on the list. Whether or not you’re loading the car with friends or family, don’t rule out bringing your dog along for the ride.Ê
It’s time to let your pup hang his head out of the window and feel the breeze! Road trips with your furry friends can be a blast if you plan accordingly.
To make this trip idyllic for you and your dog, here are a few tips from Rover.com for a fun and dog-friendly travel experience!
Map it outÊand plan ahead
To avoid last minute sleeping arrangements that aren’t pet friendly, plan out the best options for overnights along your path. Ê
If you’re plotting each stop before you jump in the car, get online to search the best hotel options for your pets along the journey. Depending on your budget, you’ll find both affordable as well as posh hotels ready to welcome your pup.ÊHigher-end hotels even provide pet perks and amenities including dog beds, massages, and made-to-order dog meals. Ê
If you’re stopping for the night whenever the mood strikes, you’ll find many hotels along the way that accommodate your dog and simply ask for an extra deposit.ÊHowever, it’s important to call ahead before making any assumptions.
Pack all the essential dog gear to keep your pup happy and comfortable in each new location. Even if your dog has traveled before, a strange new location can be unsettling. Bring your dog’s favorite toys, treats, and bedding for the ride!
Prepare to be portable.ÊInvest in a travel dog crate to make loading and unloading your luggage easier.ÊBring along a travel pack of cleaning supplies for unforeseen accidents. In addition, scout out local pet stores in the event that you run out of dog food or need a new toy distraction.
Roll down all the windows
After you’ve mapped out your adventure, let loose.ÊThere are plenty of options for dog-friendly day trips. Get the best recommendations from your hotel staff. You and your dog will have those unpredictable and spontaneous moments, so don’t get attached to this trip going exactly as planned. Ê
Ask your concierge for local restaurants, activities, and sites to see that are dog friendly so there’s no hassle in bringing your pup with you for the day. Ê
If you decide to hangout in one location for a few extra nights and need pet care support, some hotels offer on-site pet services. If not, get online and search Rover.com for a pet sitter who provides doggie daycare. With a national network of pet sitters, Rover.com travels with you.ÊThere are thousands of pet sitters available in cities both big and small across the US and Canada.
When you decide to get off the beaten path, stop for those unforgettable roadside attractions!ÊThese photos are much more fun with your tail-wagger. If you plan to visit any national monuments or state parks, read up on local leash laws and other rules to ensure your dog is invited. Ê
Play along the way
After your continental breakfast, get your dog moving and playing before you settle in for a long drive. Ê
Most pet-friendly hotels will have a dog play area or ask your hotel staff for the closest dog park. A tired dog makes for a more relaxed travel companion.
Be sure to plan on playtime breaks along the way.ÊEven if it’s a pit stop to play a quick game of fetch, you’ll both sleep better at the end of the night. The last thing you want is a restless dog in your hotel room at the end of a long day.
Check out more Rover recommendations on dog-friendly sleeping arrangements, playtime locations, and eating establishments on your travels across the US.ÊWith the open road ahead, don’t forget to keep your camera ready to capture the best dog trip moments! Hotels are a pure example of the supply and demand principle.
By Tracy Vicory-Rosenquest
Tracy Vicory-Rosenquest lives in Plattsburgh, NY with a household of animals including: her husband, dog, and cat.ÊShe used to think she was as a cat person until she met Rizzo, herÊthree-year-old boxer, pit bull, terrier with enough charm to melt an iceberg. Besides her love of pets, Tracy is a freelance writer and playwright. She has written with Rover.com since June 2017. Over the last 10 years, her plays have been produced across the country. Tracy’s book After the Question was published in 2014, and she’s a proud alumna of Goddard College’s MFA Creative Writing Program.
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