Pet Car Survival Kit

Pet Car Tips: How to Create A Roadtrip Survival Kit for Your Dog.

Yes, I know cats travel, too. But dogs are the more frequent travelers. But I've yet to see a family let Fluffy the cat bound out of the hatchback at a soccer practice or baseball game.

If you do take the cat along for the ride, however, use a carrier. Cats will slink under the brake pedal without your realizing it - until you can't press the brake pedal.

If you want to confine your cat or dog on a somewhat regular basis, invest in a gate for the back of the minivan or car.

4 Essentials To Have For Your Traveling Pet

Your pet essentials holder can be as simple as a zip-close plastic bag or a small backpack. Essentials to keep inside for when your four-legged family member comes along for the ride include:

1. Bags for Scooping Poop.

I like to use the plastic bags you get at the grocery store (I like to consider it my form of recycling or getting a second use for it) for this purpose instead of buying the specialty bags you'll find at pet stores.

2. Leash.

These may seem like a "duh", but often times dashing out the door you or the kids might forget it in a rush. By have a "spare" or second leash already in the car, there's less the think about as you're dashing out the door to soccer practice.

3. Chow.

Sometimes, your errands or carpool might take longer than expected; be prepared so your hungry pet doesn't get restless or loud (barking comes to mind here). If you're unsure there will be a faucet or hose nearby your destination(s), consider including a water bottle in your mobile kit.

4. Water and Food Dishes.

They needn't be fancy - even a plastic picnic-style dish will do. In a pinch, it's nice to know you don't have to consider whether your destination(s) will have bowls available.