Canine Travel Etiquette for Couples

Ellie_544416_598739203488100_1676247034_nMany couples who enjoy road-tripping are also dog owners who take their dogs on road trips or shopping excursions, but neglect proper etiquette and consideration.

While most of us have at one time or another, RV’d next to an obnoxious yapper, or stepped outside of our motel room only to step into a pile of steaming “business,” it doesn’t have to be that way with some proper planning and consideration. And sadly folks who travel with canines and don’t respect others, are precisely why many hotels and establishments frown on four legged guests.

For many reasons, dogs should be kept, safe, under control and with respect to others when riding or traveling in vehicles.

Have you or your traveling partner ever walked to your car in a busy parking lot only to be startled out of your skin by a large growling or barking dog who suddenly appears from a back seat, floorboard, or pickup truck camper?

Rather than walking past a ferocious looking canine, you exit your vehicle from a different door in your car, nearly bending your neck in half to avoid having your eardrums busted or getting nipped from a loose dog hanging out of an open pickup in a busy parking lot.

Traveling dogs should be kept, safe, under control and with respect to others when staying in hotels or RV parks as well as when in vehicles.

While most people are aware of the life threatening dangers associated with leaving dogs in vehicles during extreme weather, many people neglect basic manners and decency with regards to transporting their dogs.

Dogs should be both restrained and trained to transport calmly in vehicles. This can take time and patience but is worth the effort.

While not all vehicles can accommodate a large dog crate, a dog crate can provide safety and security for many pooches in transit.

Harnesses are a viable option for many dogs. A harness can lessen the chance of injury should a collision occur and can also keep a hyper or constantly moving dog from distracting the driver and passengers.

Begin training your dog at home to remain calm in the car. Then move the training to busy parking lots with the help of a training assistant (friend or family) who will reward your dog for remaining calm and relaxed, even with passersby.

Loose dogs are never a good idea in an open pickup or camper shell. Dogs are precious cargo and should always be safely secured.

It may be best to park a few spaces away from other cars (in the shade) and allow your dog the space he/she needs as well as allowing the public some space from your confined dog.

Try to take your dog’s needs and activity level into consideration while you also consider the peace and safety of those people and animals in nearby vehicles, parking spaces, RV spaces, and hotel rooms.

Always clean up properly after your pet eliminates. And never leave your dog unattended in a hotel room or in an RV.

Chances are, if your dog learns better traveling manners, you will take him or her on many more trips because it will be pleasant for you and other neighboring travelers as well.

Happy Tails!
Think PAWSITIVE!