That long-awaited time of year is coming when vacation planning begins, and if you are lucky enough to be able to take your furry friend with you, you know that it is necessary to prepare adequately so that everyone can enjoy this unforgettable experience to the fullest. That is why below we bring you a detailed list of essential items that you should take in your dog’s suitcase.
We understand how important your pet’s safety and comfort is during travel and at your destination. So, without further ado, let’s start packing your dog for vacation!
ID
The first and most important thing is to make sure that your pet has identification. If your pet already has a chip, great! But if your pet doesn’t have one, it’s a good idea to get one. You can also consider making a tag with your contact information so that anyone who finds your pet can locate your pet more easily .
Equipment for travelling by car
Before you hit the road, make sure you have all the necessary equipment to make the trip a great experience. What do you need? Take note! A special canine seat belt , a cover to protect the seats and, of course, a comfortable and safe dog carrier . This way, your dog will travel in the most relaxed way and you will have peace of mind knowing that everything is in order.
Feeder and waterer
Don’t forget to bring food and water bowls that you can easily carry with you. This way, your companion will always have fresh food and water, both at the accommodation and on excursions.
It’s always a good idea to bring a bag of your pet’s usual dog food . Bring enough for the entire holiday, or at least for a few days. If it’s a lot of weight, buy a lighter one before you leave. Remember that it can be difficult to get your pet’s usual food in some places.
When it comes to water, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you bring several bottles of water. This way, if you go on an excursion or spend many hours away from your accommodation, you’ll be able to stay well hydrated at all times.
Collar, leash and harness
- Collar and leash: You should wear a collar and leash set that is strong enough to keep your dog safely on the leash. Even if your dog is used to walking on the loose and never runs away, remember that you will be in an unfamiliar place for your dog and he could get lost. A leash can also help you control him if there are other dogs running loose or any danger nearby.
- Muzzle (if necessary) : In urban areas or on public transport, it may be mandatory to wear one. Check the local regulations for travelling on the metro with dogs in the main Spanish cities .
- Harness (optional)Â : If you are adventurous and are going to be hiking in the countryside, a harness can be a great option. Your dog will feel freer and more comfortable when hiking or taking walks in nature.
Toiletries and hygiene products
Caring for our best friend outside the home is also vitally important. Make sure you bring his shampoo and brush to keep his coat impeccable during the holidays. Also, don’t forget to include a towel to dry him after those fun dips in the beach or river.
And don’t forget to keep the environment clean and friendly for everyone. Always carry hygienic bags to pick up their poop during walks.
Blanket and bedding
A blanket and bedding for your dog are essential to provide a cozy and familiar space where they can rest and relax. We all know how important familiar smells and sensations are to our furry friends, and bringing their favorite blanket or bed will give them that feeling of belonging and security during the trip.
In addition, having a bed is also very practical in case we stay in places that are not specifically adapted for dogs. This way, we can create a comfortable space for him where he feels at ease.
Medicines and first aid kit
It is very important to carry a first aid kit with gauze, bandages, disinfectant, scissors, tweezers and disposable gloves. This way we will be prepared to quickly deal with any minor accident that may occur during our vacation.
Needless to say, if your dog needs any kind of medication , you should take it with you while you are on holiday. This way, he will always be looked after and in the best of health.
If you are going to visit places near rivers or lakes, where there are mosquitoes , it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian if it is necessary to prevent your dog against heartworm or leishmania during the holidays. This will depend on whether the place is endemic for these diseases.
Always carry your pet’s latest vaccination certificates in case we need them in any situation during the trip.
Protection from heat or cold
It is important that your dog’s luggage is adapted to the weather conditions of the destination.
- If you are travelling in the summer or to hot destinations , don’t forget to equip yourself with special sunscreen for dogs and a cooling mat to keep your furry friend cool and protected from the heat.
- However, if you are going to cold places or where it might rain , bringing a dog coat or raincoat will be ideal to keep him warm and dry. Also, remember to dry his fur if it gets wet to prevent him from getting cold.
His favorite toys
Another essential item to pack in your dog’s suitcase when you go on a trip is his favorite toys . It’s a great way to keep him happy and entertained throughout the adventure!
You can also try out new dog toys on holiday. Look for interactive toys that allow you to play with your dog, such as balls, frisbees, ball launchers, boomerangs and all kinds of throwing toys. They are the perfect excuse for your dog to get some exercise and have fun together!
Hiking accessories
Finally, if you love exploring the mountains together, your dog’s travel bag should definitely include some useful outdoor accessories . Portable water bowls to keep him hydrated at all times, vests with reflective material for greater safety on night walks, dog backpacks or bags , etc.
By travelling well equipped with your pet, you will avoid unpleasant surprises during the trip and will enjoy being accompanied by your entire family.
And since we want your vacation with your pet to be unforgettable, don’t miss these articles to live the best experiences without worries:
