Holidays mean family. In our fast-moving world, technology can bring us close to our family, wherever they are, in seconds. That works just fine in April, but December is time to slow down. As the holidays approach, we want real smiles, real hugs, real warm, crowded kitchens redolent with the aromas of the people treats for which we gather once a year. Of course Rover is coming along! He has his own Christmas stocking!

Over the years, we have gathered some great hints on traveling with our dogs. A little preparation will make the trip and the stay pleasant for everyone. What we really want is to keep travel stress minimal. Several small things can work together to do that. Borrow our checklist and consult it before you embark upon your journey.

1. Take Rover for lots of car rides in advance:

This is important! Dogs’ bodies do unpredictable things when they’re stressed, and the first things to act up are their tummies. If your buddy rides everywhere with you, he probably handles rides well. If the only time he’s ever in the car is on the way to the vet, provide him with some happy- ending car rides for practice. Take him along on your errands—where there is dog-friendly parking. That means shade. Even in cold weather, a closed car in the sun can get dangerously hot, so be mindful of what parking will be available.

2. Choose a ramp and car seat:

If you’re planning on using a ramp, now is the time to introduce it. Make it a habit. It will get you accustomed to setting up and breaking down; it will give him time to learn to trust the footing. Think about the age and weight of your dog when making your choice. At Pet Super Store, we offer ramps and steps suitable for dogs from toy to enormous. Think about the weight of the ramp, its portability and the strength of the human transportation assistant. Ideally, you’ll find one to do double duty, that is, provide an assist when traveling and at home.

A car seat is as important for your dog’s safety as it is for your child’s. The unexpected happens. Luck is not nearly as reliable as a good dog seat or harness. Considerations: Is it only for the ride? Will you also need a carrier? Many carriers are multi-duty, serving as both tote and car seat. For a big dog, a vehicle barrier and pad might be your most feasible option, eliminating the need for a separate bed when you reach your destination. A crate can serve you well, providing Rover with a home away from home. If he already uses one, we recommend taking that over introducing anything new.

3. Assemble his doggie first aid kit:

You need:

• Gauze squares, large
• First aid tape, paper and adhesive
• Bandage rolls, both gauze and Vetswrap
• Bitter Apple or another chew-discouraging preparation
• Triple antibiotic ointment
• Hydrocortisone cream or spray (such as Excel Hydrocortisone Spray or Excel Hydrocortisone Salve) to soothe skin irritation
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergic reactions (ask your vet for dosages)
• Sterile saline (generic contact lens solution is perfect; not the all-in-one kind)
• Anti-bacterial (such as Septi-Clens Medicated Anti-Bacterial Spray) for cleaning cuts
• Pet Pectate or other anti-diarrheal
• Septic powder or cornstarch in case of bleeding
• High-sugar preparation such as Karo syrup—rubbing a little on a dog’s gums will stop a seizure cold. Puppies and toy breeds in particular can suffer sudden drops in blood sugar in reaction to a change of environment.
• Sharp scissors
• Disposable gloves

It’s not as huge as it sounds. You can fit everything into a child’s lunchbox.

 4. Pack his go-bag:

Include dog food, bowls, his leash, a scoop, waste disposal bags, grooming supplies, his bed, at least one familiar toy, his first aid kit and his shot records. All campgrounds require proof of vaccinations, and many states require proof at their crossings as well. If he has medications, take more than he needs, to guard against the possible negative consequences of delays.

5. Take his current identification:

A microchip is the single most effective thing you can do to be sure that your buddy finds his way home. Your vet can insert one. It takes five seconds and costs about $20, which includes a year’s membership in the organization that keeps the microchip records, along with pictures of your dog and the name of your vet.

6. Take his accustomed food:

Now is not the time to start him on something different. Take a new bag of what he is used to eating.

7. Take appropriate water:

If you have the space, take jugs of water from your own tap. Save gallon milk jugs (with screw-on lids) ahead of time. You can also buy bottled water at your destination. Drinking tap water from another area can cause diarrhea. Keep a handy water source in the car. A Speed-E Drink Carrier is perfect. Your dog can safely have small sips of water during the ride.

8. Take his own bed:

Whether you use the pad from your vehicle, his own bed from home or his familiar crate, provide your best friend with a place as much like home as possible. Never underestimate the benefit of customary sleeping arrangements.

9. Schedule stops:

Examine your route for rest areas beforehand. At least every two hours, find a place to stop. Dogs react to stress—even good stress—physically and one thing that can suffer is his bladder/bowel control. While he would never intentionally make a mess for you, you’ll both be more relaxed with plenty of down time.

Always, always use his leash! We cannot stress the importance of this enough. We know he’d never go far from you—under ordinary circumstances. Traveling is not ordinary. Keep him safe.

10. Health and social considerations:

Keep in mind that your dog’s stomach is considerably more delicate than yours. A light meal at least two hours before you embark on your journey is okay. Don’t give him snacks during the ride. His stomach will handle it better if you wait until you’ve arrived or stopped for the night.

Only you know how well-socialized your dog is. It is always prudent, under unfamiliar circumstances, to assume he’s a little less socialized than you believe. If he isn’t used to children, watch him. Watch them; they might not be used to dogs, either. Make sure he has a place to get away from strangers and commotion. Even the friendliest dogs become unnerved. You know his body language. Be aware of when he’s telling you he’s had enough. Give him down time when he needs it.

During your stay, go easy on the treats. Rather than depriving him, you’re actually protecting his digestive system. There will be time for treats when he gets home.

And, speaking of going home:

Follow the same guidelines that got you safely to your destination. When he is home, let him do what you want to do: find his comfort place and rest. Thanks to you, his routine will reassert itself readily, and you’ll be finished until next year!