Traveling with your Dog

With the holidays quickly approaching and lots of folks making travel plans, I wanted to share some of the insight we've gained by traveling with Ruby as often as we do. While some of this is small dog-specific, there are still some good products out there for those of you who have large dogs and could use a little help during long car rides or visiting grandma's house with your pooch!

1. Silicone Pop-Up Dog Bowl: We use these collapsible bowls mostly for water. I keep one in my car, which comes in handy at the dog park or beach, and another in Ruby's pet carrier. It's so easy to throw them in your purse or keep in the pet carrier because they are so small. Another option is a water dispenser, but those are bigger and chances are you will be able to find a water fountain wherever you go. These bowls come in a large size for big dogs!

2. Gamma2 Pet Food Bowl: This container holds plenty of food for a small dog for about a week, or probably a medium-sized dog too for a long weekend. It seals the food so we don't smell it like we did when we used plastic bags and you don't have to worry about bringing a food bowl if you're staying with family or in a hotel.

3. Pet Vehicle Safety Harness: For those of you with big dogs, they can usually balance themselves in the car though I think this is a great way to keep them safe if you have to stop quickly. We use this harness for Ruby when only one of us is in the car with her and it works great. We don't have to worry about her falling and we actually just attach the hook to her own harness. Another option for small dogs is a booster seat. I know people who own these and love them but we've personally never tried it with Ruby.

4. Dingo Twist Treats: Our vet told us that its unclear whether dogs have problems with their ears needing popped on the plane like we do, but suggested we give her a rawhide that she can chew on just in case. Any rawhide will do, just make sure its small enough that it's easy for your dog to eat in the carrier. 

5. Doggy Waste Bags and Dispenser: We always have one of these dispensers hooked to Ruby's leash and another hanging on the fence in our backyard. You never know where the pup might "go" so be prepared or else you'll face lots of judgmental stares from people.

6. SturdiBag Pet Carrier: Before we flew with Ruby for the first time, I did a lot of research into the best travel carriers for dogs. This bag is a little pricier than most but its so well made, is lightweight, and provides a lot of space for your dog compared to other bags. The top is flexible so when you place the carrier under the seat on the airplane, you just push it down a tad and it gets a little larger on the sides. The padding is very soft and can be removed for cleaning.  It also has the option of opening the little "windows" to let more light and air inside, which we always leave open for Ruby. We also like being able to open the top zipper to pet Ruby if she is nervous or let her lick an ice cube during the flight. We always fly Southwest and this bag fits perfectly under the seat, no questions asked.

Ruby at the airport!

Anyone else have some useful tips when traveling with your dog? Any products I'm missing that make your trip easier? I can do a post on flying with your dog if that would be helpful!

In other news, the gorgeous Kelsea from Hey Kelsea Rae has included me in her fabulous sponsor highlight post today! Lots of Thanksgiving goodness on there, including some yummy looking recipes I'm dying to try! Make sure to stop by and check out her blog!

Lastly one more annoying reminder, don't forget to enter for the Rifle Paper Co. giveaway! You have until Wednesday night!