Mobility

During the pandemic, most of us started walking and hiking as never before. Many did so with their faithful four-legged friend. Some people even bought themselves a dog during this period to have company while walking. You probably took the dog with you in the car to your starting point of the hike. This is a good idea! That way your dog doesn't associate the car only with transportation to the vet, where not such pleasant operations usually happen to the animal anyway. And it's already preparation for when you leave on a trip with your dog.

Travelling with your dog
When traveling with the car, there are rules for securing your passengers. And what about your dog? Unfortunately, not all countries have the same rules. So it's best to find out in advance what rules apply in your destination, as well as in the countries you are traveling through.

In general, dogs are not allowed to cross the border until they are at least 15 weeks old. This is because of the rabies vaccination, which can only be given from 12 weeks of age and has to take effect for 3 weeks. However, in no country is your dog allowed to sit or lie on the front seat! In most countries a seatbelt, safety net, dog carrier or crate is mandatory in the car.

On the Belgian Radio 2, animal expert Chris Dusauchoit listed some useful tips.

Try a harness
"If you have a large car trunk, you can use a large transport crate with bars, or you can also string a net. But if you have the option of attaching your dog to the back seat, I would advocate that. There are special harnesses for dogs that you can attach to the seat belt. They also come in different sizes, depending on the size of the dog. Then, of course, you have to make sure that your dog also gets used to the harness a little bit, just like you have to get them used to the car." So with a harness, your dog can be transported more safely in your car. But there are still things to keep in mind.

Take a break in time
"Even you yourself during a long car trip want to take regular breaks to take a pee. And so is your dog. Even then you need to see that you are provided with the right materials. Parking lots can be crowded, so make sure you have a leash. And take plenty of time so your dog can sniff and smell everything properly. But definitely count on stopping once every three hours. Even if only so your dog can drink once!" Hot weather can also be very harmful for your dog while traveling, and on the trip itself as well. Therefore, let your dog drink enough, place his water bowl in the shade and change the water regularly. Also allow your dog to rest in the shade.

"Also make sure your dog doesn't overheat in the car, which is another reason why it's important to stop for a moment. There are special curtains for children, but get that for your dog as well. And definitely never leave your dog alone in the car! Dogs really can't handle high temperatures well, even only 5 minutes can already be too much."

(FVDV for Tagtik/Source: Radio 2/Illustration picture: Unsplash)