Unless you are lucky enough to live out in the countryside with lots of private grounds you will have to travel to get your dog to a space open enough to give it a good run. If there is a dog friendly park nearby within walking distance you need only pop on a lead but for some dog owners living in a city or busy town centre the only option is to travel by car.

It is important that your dog is safe and comfortable during any length of car journey. This is a list of dog travel accessories

Dog Safety

Dog car crates or cages specially adapted for cars not only makes your car journey safer for you but also for your dog, it also helps the dog feel more secure. Imagine how frightening it might be to your dog looking out the windows of a moving car!

It could be there isn’t room for a travel cage or maybe your dog is taken out in more than one car in which case a dog harness with seat belt adaptor is a good alternative. This is a great multi purpose accessory!

Word of warning: For those who think these are extreme, imagine what would happen if you were to have a car accident. If unsecured, your frightened dog could easily jump out of a car and run right onto a busy road.

Dog Comfort

A car boot isn’t designed to be comfortable so if your pet has to travel in the boot a dog bed is much nicer to lie down on.

It is also a good idea to keep a dog blanket in your car especially if you are planning a long journey in the colder months. (remember to also keep a blanket for yourself in case of break downs!)

Food and Water

Your dog will get hungry and thirsty during a long car journey and will certainly need to quench his or her thirst after a long run. Keeping water and a suitable bowl is essential and you should consider getting a material dog travel bowl that folds up when not in use instead of the standard bulky plastic bowl.

Tip: Your car could need water too! Keep a supply of water in your car for both dog and car engine especially during the hotter months. Large plastic milk or juice bottles are ideal for this. You can re-fill at a fresh water river or stream if out in the countryside.

Shade from the sun

Drivers and human passengers have visors to protect them from the glare of the sun so don’t forget your dog and fit a car window shade where appropriate.

Handy hint: Families with small children may already have car window shades which as perfect for pets too!

Dog Ramps

A dog car ramp can be a godsend! Smaller dogs can easily be lifted into bigger cars but what if you have an older heavier dog that can’t jump up or have been on a particularly muddy trip out? You can choose from a number of dog car ramps that will fold away neatly when not in use.

Pet First Aid

As exciting as running in the countryside can be for your dog, there can also hazards including barbed wire, broken glass and sharp sticks. When you are out in the middle of nowhere and your dog gets a nasty cut the first aid you are able to provide can be vital in its recovery. Pet travel first aid kits often come complete with gauzes, wipes and bandages and fit in most glove compartments.