Take a summertime road trip with your best friend. Your best furry friend, that is! This summer, hit the road with your pup as your co-pilot. Amy Burkert and her husband Rod founded GoPetFriendly.com, a site and service dedicated to pet-friendly travel. The two spend their time touring the country with their two dogs. Before you toss your weekender in the trunk – along with dog food, of course – consider Amy’s tips to ensure a fun, safe road trip.
According to Amy, it’s critical to take your pet’s veterinary records with you in case of an emergency. In case that sounds like a lot of paper to tote around...her brilliant solution? Scan the critical info and transfer it onto a USB drive.
Next, Amy recommends a dog-specific safety belt. “Pets are part of the family and their safety is equally important. You wouldn't drive around without putting your kids in their car seats, and traveling with your pet is no different,” she said. “Whether you use a seat belt harness or a secured pet carrier, protect yourself and your pet from serious injuries every time you get in the car.”
Along the way, support pet-friendly businesses. When driving with your dog, it can be challenging to find reasonable places to eat and stay. “Owners of pet friendly establishments have gone out of their way to welcome our pets, and it’s important to show our appreciation by spending our dollars with them,” Amy said. Your support – and your dog’s – will help keep these businesses pet friendly, simplifying your travels.
Finally, enjoy the trip! According to Amy, “Rushing from one activity to the next can make your vacation seem more like work than an enjoyable retreat. Remember to slow down and “sniff the roses.” When figuring the distance you can travel, or the sites you can knock out in a day, be conservative in your estimates - you and your dog will both have more fun!”
