Traveling with Pets: Cars
- Kerrin McMurdie
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
Let’s talk wheels and wagging tails.
If you’re reading this, we already know one thing: you love your fur baby enough to bring them along on your adventures—and you’d never leave them in a hot car. That’s Rule #1, always and forever.
With that established, here are a few real-world tips—road-tested and dog-approved—to make your next car trip smoother, safer, and a little less… hairy.
Seat Belts Are for Everyone
Yes, even dogs. Especially doodles.
We trained our puppy from day one to wear a harness and seatbelt in the car. Not only does it keep him safe if we have to brake suddenly, it also prevents an enthusiastic 70-pound ball of fluff from launching into the front seat to say hi. (Doodle parents, you know.)
A pet harness and seatbelt can save lives—yours, theirs, and your passengers'.
Bonus: it sets boundaries from the get-go. No lap driving. No windshield smudges. No backseat negotiations.
Feed Early, Travel Easy
If your pet isn’t used to car rides, give them time to digest before you hit the road. Feed early, allow a potty break, and make sure the car is cool and well-ventilated. Pet car sickness is real, and trust me, I've been there - cleaning up dog (or cat) puke at a rest stop is not the kind of road trip memory anyone wants.
Where to Stop for Sniffs and Sprints
Not all rest stops are created equal. But some? Some are unexpectedly great.
Love’s Travel Stops often feature fenced dog parks (over 400 nationwide) —perfect for burning off some energy while you fuel up.
State-run rest areas usually offer pet relief spots, but check signage (and leash laws).
Chains like Pilot, Flying J, TA, Sheetz, Wawa, Buc-ee’s, and QuikTrip usually offer clean, pet-tolerant outdoors, but don’t expect to take your pup inside. Always check specific locations ahead of time—facilities (and dog policies) can vary wildly.
Pro Tip: Google local dog parks along your route to give your pup a chance to stretch those legs. I’m not always a dog park enthusiast, but on a long car trip? It's a sanity-saver for everyone involved.
Rental Cars & Pet Riders
Yes, most rental car companies allow pets—but always give them a heads-up first. And proceed with caution: if your pup leaves behind a furstorm or has a little “oops,” the cleaning fee won’t be small.
Pro Tip: A pet blanket, seat cover, or crate can be a game-changer for keeping the car (and your sanity) intact. Toss in a roll of paper towels, some pet-safe wipes, and even a handheld vacuum because fur happens—and so do muddy paws.
Final Thought
Road tripping with pets can be joyful, bonding, and full of adorable moments. A little prep—and a lot of wipes—go a long way. If you ever need help planning a pet-friendly road trip that’s both logistically easy and genuinely fun, that’s where we come in.
Sprout & Goose Travel Curated travel with heart—furry family members included. www.sproutandgoosetravel.com
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