There’s something magical about hitting the open road with your favorite co‑pilot riding shotgun — especially when that co‑pilot has four paws, a short snout, and a contagious zest for life. When I retired from my career as a public health professor, I began boarding dogs in my home. I’ve spent the last 15 years learning about their needs.
Having lived in 4 countries, I love traveling but I hate being away from my dog so whenever possible, I take my Boston Terrier, Saison, with me. Whether you’re driving across the state or conquering cross‑country miles, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping both you and your pup happy, healthy, and stress‑free.
Step 1: Know Your Dog’s Travel Personality
Before you set out, think about how your dog handles new environments. Boston Terriers, for instance, tend to be curious and adaptable, but they can overheat easily and need regular breaks. Take short drives in advance to gauge your dog’s comfort level — see how long they can ride happily before getting restless.
Step 2: Pack Smart and Light
A well‑packed dog bag can make or break the trip. I always include:
- A sturdy leash and harness (plus a backup)
- Portable food and water bowls
- Enough food for the journey plus a few extra servings
- Waste bags and cleaning wipes
- A favorite toy or blanket that smells like home
- A copy of your dog’s vaccine records and vet info
Since my public health instincts never quite turned off, I also tuck in basic first‑aid supplies: antiseptic wipes, tweezers, bandages, and any prescribed meds.
Step 3: Safety First — Always
Dogs should always ride secured, either in a crash‑tested harness that clips to the seat belt or in a ventilated crate. Resist the urge to let your pup ride up front or rest their paws on your lap — even a short distraction can be risky. Make sure your dog can’t stick their head out the window at high speeds; their eyes and lungs are sensitive to dust and debris.
Step 4: Plan Dog‑Friendly Stops
Map out pet‑friendly rest areas, hotels, and parks ahead of time. Saison and I love stopping in small towns along the way — places with outdoor cafés or walkable downtowns. Apps like BringFido and AllTrails can help find good pit stops and safe walking trails. When the weather’s warm, avoid leaving your dog unattended in the car, even for a few minutes. Any unexpected delay getting back to your car could be a death sentence for your best friend. Please don’t risk it; leash them up and take them with you.
Step 5: Keep Routines in Mind
Dogs thrive on routine, and that consistency soothes them on the road. Stick to your usual feeding and walk times as closely as possible. If you board dogs in your home, you already know how structure helps reduce anxiety — and the same applies during travel.
Step 6: Make Memories (and Take Pictures!)
Road trips with your dog are about more than reaching a destination. They’re an exercise in patience, presence, and shared joy. On our last trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway, Saison perched proudly in the passenger seat, surveying the mountains like a tiny captain. Every wag and curious sniff reminded me why these adventures are worth the effort.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a dog deepens the bond between you in a way few other experiences can. With thoughtful planning, realistic expectations, and an adventurous spirit, the road becomes less of a route and more of a shared story — one paw print and tire tread at a time.
So go ahead. Roll down the windows, cue up a favorite playlist, and let the adventure begin. Saison and I will be cheering you on from wherever the road takes us next.
