15 Tips for Smooth Travel with Your Senior Dog

Viktoriya Telminova/Getty

The realities of traveling with a senior dog versus a younger one differ because while puppies and younger dogs burst with boundless energy and curiosity, our older furry friends, much like their human counterparts, tend to slow down a bit as they age. They might have arthritis that makes long car rides a tad uncomfortable, or their vision isn’t what it used to be, making new environments more challenging to navigate. But don’t let these little hurdles dissuade you! After all, who better to enjoy a serene sunset or a cozy cabin than your loyal, gray-muzzled friend? We’ve compiled 15 tips to help make travel with your senior dog smooth and enjoyable. 

Pack Essentials

vejaa/Getty

Ensure you pack all their essentials for a smooth journey. For instance, remember to carry enough of their regular food and snack items and clearly labeled medications, using a pill organizer to keep track of doses. Comfort items like favorite toys and a familiar blanket or bed can reduce anxiety and make new environments safer. 

Choose the Right Vehicle

Liudmila Chernetska/Getty

Opt for a car with ample space, ensuring your dog can lie comfortably. A vehicle with easy entry, like a low step-in height or a ramp, can help dogs with mobility issues. Consider cars with climate control in front and back seats to maintain a comfortable temperature for your dog throughout the journey. Safety features, such as dog seat belts or secure crates, are also important to ensure your dog’s well-being on the road.

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

VYCHEGZHANINA/Getty

Senior dogs can be more prone to dehydration, especially during travel, so make frequent stops to allow them to drink and stay comfortable. Pack a portable water bowl and sufficient fresh water, offering it regularly to keep your dog hydrated. Keeping your dog well-hydrated helps maintain their overall health and energy levels throughout the journey.

Provide Regular Breaks

Antonio_Diaz/Getty

Although your older dog may not seem interested in many things, it can get bored from extended periods of inactivity. Plan stops every two to three hours, allowing your dog to stretch their legs, move around, and relieve themselves. These breaks help alleviate stiffness and discomfort, which is especially important for senior dogs who may suffer from arthritis or other joint issues. 

Engage Them in Mental Activities

Daria Kulkova/Getty

Besides physical activities, your old boy needs mental stimulation on trips to keep them alert and involved. Bring along puzzle toys and chew toys to keep them engaged and prevent boredom. These things can help reduce anxiety and make the journey more enjoyable for your dog. You may also engage them through gentle play or simple training exercises during breaks to keep them pumped.

Consider a Dog Stroller

Wirestock/Getty

If you’re going on a trip involving many activities that may be too much for your old pup, a dog stroller can be a valuable asset. It provides a comfortable and secure space for your senior dog to rest, especially if they tire easily or have mobility issues. Additionally, it offers protection from rough terrain and crowded areas, ensuring your dog remains safe and relaxed, allowing them to join in on adventures without overexertion.

Avoid Leaving Your Dog in the Car

IRYNA KAZLOVA/Getty

Use every opportunity to leave the car for a stroll with your dog to avoid leaving them alone in the car, except if they’re being engaged by someone else. Cars are prone to becoming dangerously hot or cold, posing severe health risks, especially for older dogs, who may be more vulnerable to temperature extremes. Heatstroke can occur in as little as six minutes, and it can lead to severe suffering and even death.

Pack a First-Aid Kit

CentralITAlliance/Getty

Senior dogs tend to be health emergency magnets. Pack a first-aid kit with basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, paw balm, and any prescription drugs your dog may need for a quick response in such emergencies. Additional items like tweezers for removing ticks or splinters and a digital thermometer to monitor your dog’s temperature can also come in handy.

Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Maria Levkina/Getty

While a younger pup may be able to rough it in a place without specific dog facilities, like a rustic cabin or a basic motel, a senior dog requires more comfort and amenities. Look for accommodations offering easy access to outdoor areas for bathroom breaks, quiet environments to reduce stress, and pet-friendly rooms with dog beds and bowls. Check the pet policies of each accommodation you shortlist to ensure they align with your needs.

Make Very Minimal Diet Changes

O_Lypa/Getty

While you may want to experiment with your taste buds while traveling, it’s important to stick to familiar food for your senior dog. An unfamiliar diet can lead to digestive upset, which can be particularly hard on older dogs. Pack enough of your dog’s regular food to last the entire trip, and avoid giving them new treats or snacks they aren’t accustomed to. Maintaining their usual diet helps ensure they stay without any tummy troubles.

Stick to a Familiar Routine

Robert Daly/Getty

Dogs are sticklers for routine and structures, and even while away from home, they expect relatively the same things at specific points of the day. Maintain regular meal times, bathroom breaks, and exercise routines as much as possible. Senior dogs thrive on consistency, and sticking to their familiar schedule helps reduce the stress and anxiety associated with unfamiliar environments. 

Pay Attention to Their Cues

RossHelen/Getty

While schedules planned by you are great and keep everything in order, remember that they’re what you think your dog wants, which may differ slightly or even a lot from what they actually want. Pay close attention to signs of discomfort, fatigue, or anxiety, such as excessive panting, pacing, or reluctance to move. If your senior dog shows symptoms of stress, like whining before your planned break time, then you should definitely move your break forward.

Give Massages

BigshotD3/Getty

Massages can benefit senior dogs during travel by alleviating muscle stiffness and promoting relaxation. Gentle massages along your dog’s back, shoulders, and legs can help improve circulation and reduce tension, especially after extended periods of inactivity. This soothing activity enhances your senior dog’s physical comfort and strengthens the bond between you two.

Prioritize Safety

marekuliasz/Getty

Gambling on safety isn’t an option with a senior dog. Always adhere to safety rules, such as using a life jacket during a boat ride, regardless of the activity’s perceived risk. Senior dogs may have reduced stamina or mobility, making them more vulnerable to accidents. Use a life jacket in the water, a seat belt harness or crates in cars and planes, and a sturdy leash to provide stability on uneven terrain. 

Keep Your Vet Informed And Involved

shironosov/Getty

Consulting with your vet before traveling with a senior dog is essential for a thorough health assessment and informed decisions about their care. Your vet can advise on specific health concerns to monitor, recommend medications, or suggest tranquilizers if your dog experiences anxiety during travel. They can also provide tailored advice on managing chronic conditions, adjusting medications, and ensuring your dog’s overall well-being on the trip. 

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply