Exploring pet travel with your canine companion? Discover fresh feasting options for your pet, as suggested by a professional trainer

Traveling with a Dog: Tips from a Certified Dog Trainer

Exploring pet travel with your canine companion? Discover fresh feasting options for your pet, as suggested by a professional trainer

In the world of pet ownership, one of the most exciting adventures is taking your furry friend along for a journey. Melissa Goodman, a certified dog trainer at Mission Pawsitive, shares her experiences and advice on traveling with her dog, Aspen, particularly when it comes to feeding him during travels.

Feeding Your Dog During Travel

Goodman's advice for traveling with a dog's food applies to both raw and cooked food diets. Here are some key points to consider:

Using Grain-Based Refreshments

Grain-based refreshments, such as cereals and grains, can be beneficial for dogs during travel. They can help reduce stress symptoms in dogs caused by traveling and support digestive health, preventing digestive problems that may arise due to changes in the routine.

Choosing the Right Grain

When choosing grain-based refreshments, it's essential to ensure the grain is safe for dogs. Some dogs may be allergic or intolerant to certain grains.

Managing Short and Long Trips

For short trips, small quantities of grain-based refreshments can be a good option to help reduce a dog's stress levels. For longer trips, it's important to ensure that the grain doesn't lead to a food allergy or intolerance.

Consulting a Vet

Before introducing new refreshments into your dog's diet, it's always a good idea to consult with a vet to ensure the refreshments are suitable for your dog.

Alternatives to Long-Lasting Ice Packs

Goodman also suggests using dry ice as an alternative to long-lasting ice packs when traveling with a dog's food. This can help maintain the food's freshness during the journey.

Preparation is Key

Goodman emphasizes the importance of being prepared when traveling with a dog, including having backup food in case of emergencies. She also recommends asking hotels to store dog food in their freezer if needed.

Enrichment Toys

Goodman uses food-based enrichment toys for Aspen during travel to keep him entertained and stimulated. These toys not only provide mental stimulation but also help in managing stress during travel.

Hygiene Precautions

Goodman takes hygiene seriously when preparing Aspen's meals during travel. She uses disinfectant wipes to clean the surface she prepares his food on, and brings dish soap to clean his bowl after each meal.

Accommodation Considerations

Goodman prefers hotels with freezer compartments in the room or a dial to change the room's fridge temperature into a freezer. This allows her to store Aspen's food and long-lasting ice packs effectively during her travels.

Keeping to the Diet

Despite the challenges of traveling, Goodman was able to keep Aspen on his raw diet during an 18-day road trip. She bought freeze-dried food as a backup for Aspen's meals during the trip and added a little water for extra hydration.

For more tips on traveling with pets, including information on traveling with a dog by plane and recommendations for the best travel destinations for dogs, you can refer to various resources online. Happy travels!

Exploring pet travel with your canine companion? Discover fresh feasting options for your pet, as suggested by a professional trainer

Traveling with a Dog: Tips from a Certified Dog Trainer