Road trip with the dog

On its website, the American Kennel Club recommends that:

1. Help your dog get used to the car by introducing it gradually. At first, just get in the car with him and sit in the driveway. Then go for a VERY short drive... adding distance as he's more comfortable.

2. Don't feed your dog before the trip, to reduce the chance of car sickness. But do make sure he has lots of water at all times. Keep the car well ventilated.

3. NEVER let your dog stick his head out the window... too much chance of eye or face injury. Even though dogs seem to love it, it's very dangerous.

A BIG NO-NO ...head out the window

You might have seen this cute picture making its way around in email forwards... it's not only adorable but it's sensible too! It's just crazy to let your dog be loose while you're driving.

First, it's really dangerous. If there were an accident or even sudden stop, your dog can become a deadly projectile. Even in a minor collision, an unrestrained dog can be thrown into the dashboard or the windshield. Like any other projectile, the dog will fly forward with tremendous speed and force and go through the windshield and/or seriously injure you and your passengers. (In an auto accident a 60 pound dog in a car traveling 30 mph will hit an object ten inches in front of him at 1,200 pounds per square inch.)

And a small dog held on your lap in the front seat will almost certainly be killed by the air bag going off. Sorry to be graphic but it's something to think about.

Second, it's illegal. In most jurisdications across Canada and the U.S. you'll be charged with "something," so why not get a reliable dog restraint for your car now!

The safest place for dogs is in the back seat - properly restrained. Here are some ways you can safely restrain your dog:

1. keep the dog in a crate, that itself is safely attached to the seat belt system


2. a proper-fitting harness that holds the dog in, via a strap attached to the seat belt mechanism


3. one of the new booster seats for small dogs, with built-in seat belt or harness restraint


4. a barrier for the back of SUVs - hold the dog away from the passenger area but don't do much to protect the dog, who could still get out the back door in the case of an accident

Your dog may not like a restraint at first, but in this case, safety is more important.

Depending on your dog's size, your vehicle, budget and specific needs, there are lots of ways to safely restrain your dog in the car, including:

• a simple harness that clips in to your car's safety belt system


• a small crate or container, that's belted in for safety


• a barrier to close off the back of a sport-ute


• a full size crate, safely harnessed in

At this online Amazon store, you'll see a number of examples, as well as other stuff you need to travel with your dog.

The good news is, the requirements are the same for Canada and the United States.

Animals must be in good health when they arrive.

Dogs and cats must have certificates issued by a licensed vet identifying each animal and certifying that each pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 months.

Puppies and kittens under three months do not need certification, but there is a limit of up to two pets in this category which may be brought across the border.

Pet birds are allowed, if in compliance with regulations.

And don't forget:

Be aware that there are many restrictions on food and plant items that can be brought from the U.S. into Canada.
Prohibited items are confiscated, so don't bring any food or plant items with you that you would not be willing to give up at the border.

Prohibited are:

• Most poultry and fresh eggs
• Most plants
• Many fresh fruits and vegetables

For more information, check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website or The U.S. Department of Agriculture's website

You'll need food and plenty of water of course, in the car. But don't forget the bowls! You'll also want to pack:

• any medical information, your vet's name and number
• your dog's license and microchip info
• an extra leash
• a few treats
• a small doggie first aid kit: gauze, antibiotic ointment, rubbing alcohol
• an old towel - in case you need to wrap him up
• a clean up kit - paper towels, disinfectant spray, plastic bags and twist ties... and wet wipes for you
• poop and scoop bags

You might also want to get a calming medication, like this Homeopathic EasyTravel Solution - Make pet journeys a pleasant and easy experience for owners and pets

Our little dog cries non-stop when we're in the car, no matter how short the ride!

It's not only incredibly annoying but it's dangerous too, because it's so distracting to the driver.

After making sure she is securely fastened in (for safety sake and to make her feel more secure)... and that there's nothing else that could be causing the problem, i blasted some cheerful pop-rock one day, and it did the trick! She calmed right down, settled in and stopped crying.

So far, I haven't tried any other musical styles - why, when this one works!

1. get your dog used to the car before you have to take a long drive. Just a few minutes to start, then slowly increasing the time, will help him feel comfortable with the motion and sounds.

2. always secure your dog with a pet harness belt; in a carrier or kennel cage; or behind a dog gate for SUVs. Never keep dogs in the front seat - if the airbag deploys, it's disaster!

3. stop feeding your dog food 2 hours before the trip starts, to minimize the risk of carsickness. Limit water to one hour before and be sure to take him for a potty break before you get started.

4. bring a favourite blanket or toy, or something else that your dog will recognize by scent. It's calming to him and will make him feel better.

5. stop frequently for potty breaks - especially at the beginning of the drive. But do be very careful when letting your dog out of the car to go - put the leash on securely before you open the door.

6. bring at least the basic information about your dog's health - vet's name and number, last vaccination dates, any allergies or medications.

7. if you're crossing the border, remember you need proof of a recent rabies shot. Proof can be a letter from your vet, or a paid bill showing the vaccination and date.

8. don't forget paper towels, wet wipes and a mild cleaning spray for potential sickness problems.

9. along with food and bowls, pack water that's almost frozen so it stays nice and cool during the trip.

10. be sure your dog has an i.d. tag on his collar with the most up-to-date information available.