| Packing for your dog may seem a bit eccentric and, | | | | the cold. This is especially important if your dog is |
| well, let's face it, a bit over the top, however it really | | | | used to being indoors most of the time or if you live |
| can make the difference between a stressful and | | | | in a year round warm climate. If you want to stay |
| frustrating vacation or trip and a really enjoyable | | | | conservative there are lots of basic sweaters and |
| experience. Although some dogs are happy jumping in | | | | heavier dog shirts and sweat suits available at pet |
| the car and heading out on the road with just their | | | | store or online. For those that have more of a |
| collar and a leash, most dogs are much more | | | | fashion flair, specialty dog boutiques and online stores |
| comfortable when they have some familiar items | | | | offer endless outdoor gear options. |
| around them. In turn, the more comfortable and | | | | A small, well equipped first aid kit for your dog is |
| relaxed your dog is the better the trip will be for | | | | very important. Your vet may sell pre-packaged pet |
| everyone. Taking a bit of time to pack your dog's | | | | first aid kits that will typically include bandages, gauze, |
| travel gear is just part of being the great owner and | | | | disinfectant, antibacterial spray, tweezers, scissors as |
| companion to your pet you always wanted to be. | | | | well as any medication that your pet is currently |
| Deciding what gear your dog will need on the trip is | | | | taking. If your pet is on medications be sure you |
| largely a function of where you are going and what | | | | have enough to provide the medication as per the |
| you are planning to do when you get there. Of | | | | prescription for the duration of your trip. |
| course you will need the basic leash and collar or | | | | Treats and toys should also be included in your pet |
| harness, but you may also want to consider some | | | | packing project and although you don't need to bring |
| additional items such as a retractable leash or an | | | | all the favorite toys a few of your dog's top toys |
| extra long leash or lunge line to allow your pet to | | | | should be brought on the trip. It is always a good |
| exercise and roam a bit while still staying under | | | | idea to pack treats in several zip lock or sealed bags |
| control. Remember you are going to be in an | | | | or containers so that you can easily grab a small bag |
| unfamiliar place and even the best behaved and | | | | to take on a walk or just to hand out a few treats |
| trained dog may get the urge to explore, developing | | | | throughout the day. If your dog has a specialty food |
| selective hearing regarding your increasingly frantic | | | | that is difficult to find always pack enough for the |
| calls to return. A retractable leash for smaller to | | | | trip if at all possible. If the dog eats a readily available |
| medium sized dogs is great option to allow space and | | | | commercial brand it is still a good idea to bring enough |
| freedom while still having control of the dog. For | | | | for a couple of meals, just in case you have difficulty |
| larger, heavier and stronger breeds a horse lunge line | | | | in getting to a store during business hours. |
| is an inexpensive option for a long leash plus they | | | | A great way to pack your doggy gear is in a |
| come in a wide assortment of colors and patterns. | | | | backpack that is lightweight, waterproof and easy to |
| If you have a short haired breed or a small dog and | | | | carry. Some dog carriers and crates also have cubby |
| you are taking a winter holiday to enjoy the snowy | | | | holes and spaces for packing, which is terrific if space |
| weather, packing some dog sweaters and even dog | | | | saving is important. |
| booties may be important to protect your pet from | | | | |