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Essential Road Trip Gear for Dogs

  • Kennel

    Whether you choose a hard- or soft-sided kennel for your furry companion, the most important feature is the ability to secure the kennel to your car, which will protect your pet in the event of an accident. For large dogs, a choice like the Petego Pet Tube Kennel will keep your pet safe and prevent him from distracting you while you're driving.

  • Booster Seat

    If you'd prefer for your small dog to ride in the front seat with you, consider the Kurgo Skybox Pet Booster Seat. It will allow your dog to look out the window while keeping him hooked to one spot. Even if you want to keep your pet nearby, you don't want him trying to crawl into your lap while you're driving. That's an accident waiting to happen.

  • Car Seat Cover

    Even the most well-groomed dog still sheds or gets dirty paws from time to time. You can protect your car's upholstery with a special water-proof, dog-proof seat cover. The Outward Hound Back Seat Pet Hammock will also prevent your dog from climbing into the front seat and distracting you.

  • Safety Harness

    For added security in the event of an accident or just to keep your dog from wandering around the car and causing a distraction, you can use a special harness designed to work with the seatbelts in your car. The Solvit Car Safety Harness is made with a mesh vest so the pressure of a sudden stop won't be absorbed by the dog's neck.

  • Travel Bowl

    Whether you're planning to feed your dog in the car or at your destination, a travel bowl will made dinner time a snap. The Bamboo Silicone Pop-Up Travel Bowl folds flat for storage when not in use. It's BPA free and dishwasher safe.

  • Water Bottle

    Just like humans, dogs need frequent access to fresh water. Every time you make a pit stop during your trip, be sure to offer your pet a drink. The H2O4K9 Dog Water Bottle makes it easy to both store and dispense water for your pet.

  • Food Storage Bag

    Sure, you can just use a big plastic bag, but if you prefer to travel in style, carry dog food in a colorful container like the Planet Dog On The Go Feedbag.

  • Dog Bed

    If you're going camping or staying with a friend, your dog will need a comfy place to sleep. And even pet-friendly hotels would prefer that you not invite your furry friend to sleep beside you in bed. The Ruff and Tuff Self-Inflating Travel Dog Bed is water resistant, rolls up for storage and has a machine-washable outer shell.

  • Pet First-Aid Kit

    Anytime you're going to be away from home, it's a good idea to pack some dog-friendly first-aid supplies just in case. The Canine Friendly Pet First Aid Kit includes a first-aid manual, scissors, gauze pads, gauze rolls, saline solution, antiseptic wipes, cold packs, an emergency blanket and more.

  • Towel

    Many dogs love water, mud and puddles. Even if they don't seek them out, they often have the uncanny knack for ending up with dirty paws. To keep your dog from tracking dirt into your car, tent or hotel room, keep a towel handy. The Soggy Doggy Super Shammy is designed to hold up to seven times its weight in water. It also dries quickly and is machine washable.

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Essential Road Trip Gear for Dogs

by Megan Patrick, Staff Writer

One of the most popular dog-friendly vacations you can take is a road trip. Whether you plan to visit family and friends, go camping in a state park or stay in a luxury pet-friendly hotel, getting there can be half the fun.

To make canine car trips both safe and enjoyable, you'll need a few accessories. Here are our top 10 picks for best road trip gear for dogs.

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Kennel

Whether you choose a hard- or soft-sided kennel for your furry companion, the most important feature is the ability to secure the kennel to your car, which will protect your pet in the event of an accident. For large dogs, a choice like the Petego Pet Tube Kennel will keep your pet safe and prevent him from distracting you while you're driving.