Everything you need to know about traveling with furry friends

Summer is quickly coming to a close, but there is still plenty of time for road trips and family fun. Of course, no family excursion is complete without the furry friends, too! Bringing pets along on vacation can be fun, but it can also be challenging if you are not properly prepared. Read our following tips to help save money, time, and energy so that you can focus on making memories!

Research your Destination

Additional hotel fees and restaurant restrictions can create unnecessary frustrations during your trip. Avoid these roadblocks by doing research ahead of time and plan activities and accommodations that will suit the entire family. Websites, such as BringFido and dogfriendly.com, help locate pet friendly places at your destination. Find hotels without pet fees, restaurants with outdoor seating and pet accommodations, and the best local dog parks before you even arrive.

Prepare your Vehicle

The Ford Edge is ranked one of the best cars to have for traveling with pets, thanks to its large, open cargo area and low doors to allow four-legged friends the ability to enter and exit the vehicle with ease. No matter the type of vehicle you own, there are several ways to plan ahead and minimize stress while you’re on the road.

First, pack all items that your pet may need during the trip in one place. This should include a leash, water bowl, treats, and toys. If you know where everything is located, it will save time and speed up rest stops along the way.

Second, ensure adequate room for a kennel in your vehicle or a pet seat belt, to maintain the safety of all family members. Not only is a wandering pet a big distraction when driving, it is also a huge risk if there was to be a collision. According to Consumer Reports, a 60 pound dog traveling at 35 mph can turn into a 2,700 pound projectile in an accident.

Third, keep the window closed. Even though pets love to feel the breeze through their fur, allowing them to have their head outside the window can cause eye and ear damage.  Bringing a brand new toy could help distract your pets and prevent unruly behavior.

Expect the Unexpected

No matter how well you prepare, unexpected hiccups often occur on road trips. Plan ahead and pack a few extra items to help minimize stress, should you find yourself in an untimely situation.

First-aid supplies can help in a pinch. Gauze, tweezers, and non-adhesive sterile pads are inexpensive additions to your road trip supplies, but should be kept in the car. The American Red Cross has even created an app so that you can assist your pet, if needed. It is important to bring along vaccination certificates and medical records and have a list of emergency numbers, such as an after-hours animal clinic and National Animal Poison Control Center.

While you never plan to let your pet leave your sight, before departing for your destination, make sure that your pet’s tags are updated with the correct contact information and keep a recent picture of your dog with you, just in case.

If you are looking for a pet-friendly vehicle for your next trip, stop by Pearson Ford and let one of our experts help you find the perfect ride for the whole family. Take advantage our Summer Sales Event  going on now to upgrade your vehicle and get back on the road making long-lasting memories!