Travelling with your dog is one of the best adventures, but to be sure that your pet will be entirely safe, you should get the needed travel accessories. Dogs too deserve to be safe on the road. Getting the needed travel equipment should not be a challenge, but sometimes dog owners might get confused (especially if they are new to the whole thing).

Buying the proper dog car travel equipment is a way to show love towards your pet. If you don’t know where to start, we have prepared a list of the basic items that would help you and your dog have a pleasant and safe trip.

A Crash-tested Kennel

These types of kennels are going to keep your dog safe in a potential accident. Having a plastic kennel may be more affordable and practical for your trip to the vet (or other short rides), but if you plan to take your dog to a longer road trip, make sure you provide your pet with a crash-tested kennel. Nobody is safe from accidents, and none of us can predict them. This is why you should be prepared in advance. Even a minor crash, can break the plastic and cause severe injuries to your furry friend. Fractures are very common in pets in such cases.

A Crash-tested Harness

Besides kennels, your dog car travel equipment should contain a crash-tested harness. It is an effective way to provide safety to your dog while travelling. If your dog was never closed (or trained) to stay in a kennel, this is going to keep them safe. Before purchasing this item, make sure it is crash-test certified. Only then you can be entirely sure that your dog is protected. These harnesses are a bit pricier, but see this is as a smart investment that could save your dog’s life.

A Hammock-style Seat Cover

If you and your dog are going hiking, camping or spending the day at the beach, you can expect that your buddy will get dirty. Dogs love to explore, and wouldn’t think twice before stepping into mud or puddles. And who can blame them? But, to keep the inside of your car clean and free of paw stains, we suggest you get a hammock seat cover. Make sure it’s waterproof so your seats will remain clean and dry even when your dog lies on it. If you don’t want to make your dog feel isolated, get a hammock seat cover that has a see-through mesh panel. This way you’ll always be able to see what your doggie is doing in the back.

Foldable Car Ramp

A foldable car ramp is a great accessory for any ride with your pet. Easily foldable, these ramps will help the entrance and exit for your dog. It’s especially useful for disabled or older dogs; small dogs can also benefit from this (if you have a car that is too high for them to climb). The ramp will prevent you from lifting them in and out of your vehicle, and let’s be honest, it’s not the best activity if you have to do it ten times a day. If your dog is on the heavier side, this could be a real burden for you. The ramp is excellent for any vehicle.

Pet First Aid Kit

Just as you have a box of first aid in your car, your pet too should have one. Being on the road can bring many unpleasant surprises, so you better be prepared. If your dog already takes medications, make sure you store those in the kit as well. Prevent your dog from any danger with a top-quality first-aid kit for pets. Gauze, scissors, tweezers, bandages, pills, are just a few of the items you should have stored in your first-aid kit for pets.

Dog Booster Car Seat

Your dog too deserves a comfortable trip, so getting a dog booster car seat will help them endure even the longest trip. The dog booster seats have various sizes and shapes to fit any dog breed. You can get a backless model or a seat with high back forms. The booster seats are not attached to the car seat through anything, so they’re like carriers for the dogs, with softer bedding for bigger comfort during long road trips.

Adjustable Dog Seat Belt for Car

Just like you add your seat belt, your dog too should have one. Dogs are not spared in unwanted situations on the road, so keep them safe with an adjustable dog seat belt. Don’t forget about this dog travel gear when you plan your trip. Get a model that attaches on their harness; these ones are far safer than the ones that attach on the collar.

Dog Carrier Backpack

If you have a small doggie, a dog carrier backpacks will make things very easy for you. Smaller dogs tend to get tired easily, so you can place them in the carrier and have your hands free. If you’re hiking and believe that the area is dangerous for your pet, you can always use the carrier.

Portable Water Bottle

When your dog gets thirsty, you should provide them with fresh water. Having a portable water bottle allows you to give your dog fresh and clean water even when you’re on the road. Even if the two of aren’t travelling, such bottles are excellent so you can be sure that your dog is hydrated with clean water anywhere (the park, beach). Such bottles are user-friendly and lightweight so you can pack them in your bag or your car.

Taking your dog on an adventure is a priceless thing. Both of you will enjoy the time spent together. But, hitting the road with a dog means that you have to be prepared and have several items that will ease up the travelling. Keep your doggie safe in your vehicle with a seat belt, and a proper harness. Keep a first-aid kit within the reach of your hand, so you can be at ease even in the most challenging situation.