Ahead of the final May Bank Holiday and for many school’s half term holidays, plenty of Brits are planning road trips, while others are looking for a last-minute staycation. But for many the decision whether to take their four-legged friend with them can cause added stress, as can the prospect of how it will be travelling with their beloved pets.

Many see their dogs as another member of their family, so like travelling with any other passengers, safety is key. Travelling has the potential to be stressful for your dog and the motion of a moving car could also cause them to be sick. Dogs show distress in a number of ways, including barking, whining, heavy panting, vomiting or even refusing to get into the car in the first place.

So how do we overcome this and how do we travel with our canine companions safely?

The nation’s most dog-friendly car brand CarStore and animal welfare experts from Battersea have put together their top travelling tips:

Buckle Up

Use a good quality safety harness or crate to keep your dog in one place and safe from jumping around the car. This will help them, you and other passengers from not getting injured if you have to suddenly stop or perform an emergency brake.
A Few of My Favourite Things

Ensure your dog has familiar surroundings, by taking some of their favourite toys or blankets with them to help them relax through the journey. This will ease any anxiety and distress. Speak to them in a soothing and reassuring tone and switch on a calming radio station – Classic FM always works a treat!
Calm Their Nerves

If your dog has a nervous disposition around the car itself, then find some time, when you don’t need to take them anywhere, and get them used to being around the vehicle. Create reward-based praise every time they get into the vehicle, so they start to create positive associations to the car.
Whatever the Weather

As the weather heats up, always carry water in the car for you and your dog. Dogs can quickly become dehydrated on long journeys. There are plenty of nifty water bottles on the market specifically for dogs that turn into bowls, for easy drinking and storage. Never leave animals in a vehicle unattended and refrain from taking journeys when the temperature is too hot.
Pet Stops

On longer journeys, take regular stops so dogs can stretch their legs, rehydrate and have their toilet break.
Wind Down

Lower the window slightly for fresh air, especially on warmer days. If you’re planning a longer, motorway stretch where having the windows down isn’t practical, make sure you have fans or the AC working, so your dogs can keep cool. Cooling dog blankets and a summer haircut may also come in handy.
Rob Miller, Head of CarStore Operations, said: “We always encourage customers to create a positive association with their dog and the car so they are comfortable when it comes to travelling with them. Our specially trained advisors can help you from the start of the buying journey with lots of dog friendly advice and tips. Our showrooms are really dog friendly and welcome you brining your canine pal with you when you are looking for a new car”.