Puppy's Life

Puppy on Board

Put safety first when traveling with your best furry friend

Finding your puppy was kismet. When you brought him home, it was immediately apparent that you'd found a soul mate, a friend who'd go with you everywhere. So this is exactly why you're reluctant to leave your best friend behind for a second—whether you have to pop into the car for a trip to the dry cleaner … or take a journey across the country

And while it's fun to travel with your best buddy, keeping everyone safe and secure is priority number one. Follow these tips for outfitting your vehicle with the right travel gear.

Ready for Takeoff

Initially, some pups are hesitant about getting into the car. Maybe they associate the car with a trip to the vet's office. (Or perhaps it's your dismal driving!) Whatever the case, if your best friend appears uncomfortable in the car, it's a good idea to bring along the carrier and strap it in using the backseat seatbelt. (Always chauffer your little darlings in the backseat so they're out of range should the airbag deploy.)

If your puppy feels perfectly comfortable being driven around town, leave the crate at home and invest in a luxurious quilted seat cover. It will save your leather seats, all the while making your pup feel like royalty. (Visit www.callingalldogs.com for great ideas.) Consider a harness that buckles into standard seatbelts or a pet net vehicle restraint for the very back section of the SUV. Both prevent your puppy from flying forward after a quick stop.

What to Bring

It's likely that your puppy loves to see—and be seen—while cruising highways, but sometimes his small size prevents a good view. Check out the booster seats designed specifically for little dogs—the carrier fits on the headrest of the front passenger seat, thus allowing your puppy to see out the back and side windows. (Check out Hunter k9 Gear at www.hunterk9.com and Reigning Cats and Dogs at www.catsanddogspa.com to see a variety of seats, boosters, and more.)

Even if you're only running errands, it's important to have a collar, ID information, leash, dog treats, travel dish, and bottled water handy. You may be unexpectedly delayed thanks to a flat tire or a chance encounter with a garrulous friend who wants to chat. Remember that your puppy is a newcomer, so make sure to give him time to stretch his legs and have a restroom break. (link to New Puppy in Town)

Stirring the Senses

Like you, your puppy enjoys entertainment, but since you're driving, your attention is focused on the road. Why not let your puppy select the music for the journey? Check out Amazon.com for dog-friendly CDs such as Relaxation Music for Cats and Dogs, Canine Lullabies, or Songs to Make Dogs Happy. And what if your puppy is just as visual as he is audile? Gear up the car with a DVD player and make his ride more pleasant with a canine-friendly film such as The Movie for Dogs or the timeless favorite, Scooby Doo! Where Are You?! (Keep the remote close to you, though. You know your puppy's propensity to hit "paws.")