If you are taking a road trip or flying with your pet, you might be wondering where to start in terms of safety and keeping your pet comfortable. At This Lil’ Dog of Mine, we want to accommodate your pet’s needs, so here are some pet-friendly tips for your trips out of Austin this summer.

1. Pet-Friendly Essentials

If you are planning to travel with your pet, there are some important things you should have with you. These include a collapsible bowl for water, a kennel, a seat cover for your car, a compact travel bed, grooming wipes, and calming treats in case your pet gets nervous during the trip. If you are flying with your pet, you will need a soft-sided carrier for cabin travel or a hard-sided kennel for cargo hold travel.

2. How to Fly With Your Pet

It's always a good idea to consult with your vet before flying with your pet, especially if they have any serious health conditions. Your vet can provide a medical opinion on whether it's safe for your pet to fly. You should also find out if your pet is eligible to fly in the cabin or the cargo hold. 

Generally, pets weighing under 20 pounds are allowed to fly in the cabin with their owner, but they should be well-trained to avoid disturbing other passengers. In addition, be sure to have updated identification, photographs, and documentation for your pet to ensure a smooth flight and to be prepared in case of any issues. 

If your pet is not accustomed to being in a carrier, it's a good idea to help them get used to it by testing it out in your car or carrying it around with you. This can help your pet become more comfortable with the carrier before the flight.

3. Road Trips With Your Pet

When you’re on the road with your pet, you’ll want to make frequent pit stops so they can stretch or drink some water. Animals can also get car sickness like humans, so make sure your pet eats well before getting in the car. To keep your pet hydrated throughout the trip, use ice cubes instead of filling their bowl with water.

If your fur baby is prone to anxiety, these pit stops will be essential for their comfort. As a general rule, if your pet is not used to riding in a car long-term, take some test drives around town to get used to the longevity. 

4. Pet-Friendly Pit Stops

Speaking of pit stops, here are some pet-friendly places you can visit so your pet gets a much-needed break:

• Love's Travel Stops: These gas stations are spread across 41 states in the US, so you can’t go wrong with using these spots for a pet potty break. 

• Gas Stations with Dog Parks: On that note, you may be able to find a Love’s with an actual dog park. These are known to have fenced-in play areas equipped with pet waste stations and a double air-locked gate. You can also google other gas stations with dog parks on the freeway, and you might be surprised at what you find.
  

• General Rest Stops: There will always be those essential rest stops where you can use the restroom, as can your pet. You only need a patch of grass and a spot to place their travel bowl.
  

• Pet-Friendly Hotels: If you’re going to rest for the night, there are pet-friendly hotels to choose from. One of the most popular is La Quinta Inn & Suites. They are located off all major highways in the US. 
  

• Pet Bathrooms at the Airport: Some airports have pet-friendly bathrooms, complete with artificial grass. Look up the amenities at your airport before flying to take advantage of these conveniences. Otherwise, you should do a potty break outside before checking into your flight. Or, if your pet is used to pee pads, you can set up a spot in the airport restroom for them. Regarding meals, make sure your pet eats at least 4 hours before departure so they don’t get hungry throughout the trip, and it’s best they not fly on a full stomach. 

We are here to support you if you need any advice on traveling with your pet this summer! Contact us today with your request.