Summer never seems to be long enough to pack in all the activities we want to do. Instead, we have to make the most of the time we have. So, think about including your pets in the summer fun! There are many vacations or stay-cations options your pets can join in, such as a camping trip, road trip or even a visit to a swanky pet-friendly hotel. Once your travel plans are booked, there are a few things you need to do before you leave!

Vet Visit

Your pet should visit their vet before you leave to update their vaccinations and get any medication they may need during the trip. You can also ask for their records to take with you in case of an emergency.

Identification

If you don’t already, you could also get your pet microchipped while at the vet. Having multiple forms of identification for your pet is recommended in case they lose their tag while hiking on trails or strutting down city streets.

Training

Some pets love car rides, while others are terrified. So how long your pet will be in the car needs to be factored into the planning of your trip. You can help your pet become more comfortable by starting with smaller car rides and giving them little rewards when they behave properly during the ride.

Know your Pet

The breed, age, and temperament of your pet will help you determine what items to bring on your trip. Maybe bring some engaging toys to keep them entertained on the ride, identify how often your pet needs to relieve themselves, and recognize how quickly your pet may overheat along with how long it takes to cool down. You can also bring items that bring them comfort, such as a favorite toy or blanket.

Packing

You would think it would be quick and simple to pack everything your pet needs for the trip, but we compiled a list of necessities just in case you left something off yours!

• Collar, leash, and/or harness: Depending on what you’re planning to do on your trip determines the type of collar, leash, and/or harness you take with you. Make sure to bring multiples of everything for your different plans or in case something gets worn out in all the fun and needs replaced.
• K9 Explorer® is great for walking the trails
• Pro Waterproof allows for endless water explorations
• Sublime® makes your pet stand out in the most fashion-forward cities
• Classics nylon is the perfect choice if you want something basic and reliable
• Reflective items: If your plans include any night adventures, consider getting your pet reflective and/or light up collars and leashes. Lazer Brite® offers various fun and colorful patterns that are reflective and can be seen from up to 600 feet away.
• Identification items: As previously mentioned, your pet should have identification and even back-up identification. The EZ Change® ID clip makes moving your pet’s identification from collar to collar easier!
• Food/water & bowls: Treats are also a great idea! To keep your pet strong and energized during your trip and explorations, make sure to bring along bowls to enjoy a quick water break! The Bergan® Travel Bowl is easy to carry and take along for long journeys.
• Medication/pest protection: Your pet’s health should be consistently maintained so don’t forget their medications. Also bring medical supplies in case your pet gets injured, such as gauze. The SecureAway™ collar should be added to your collection to hold your pet’s flea and tick collar to protect them against any nearby pests.
• Toys: Keeping your pet engaged and active is important for their health and happiness, so bring along Rascals® Fetch toys to offer your pet all kinds of options to play with in the car, in the woods, in the city and even in water!
• Tie out: some locations, such as campsites, require you to tie out your pet, so pack any combination of stake and cable that can handle the strength of your pet, like the Titan® Stake and Cable Tie Out Combo.
• Sleeping supplies: When your pet goes to lie their head down at night, they should also be comfortable. Bring along their bed, blanket, crate, or anything they use for sleeping.
• Cleaning supplies: Pets make messes and most seem to be masters at finding messes, so bring along cleaning supplies, such as towels and anything to clean up their bathroom messes — like the Bergan® poo bags.
• Travel supplies: Your pet should also be secured when they get in the car. The Bergan® Auto Harness buckles your pet into their seat to keep them and you safe during car rides. A carrier may be another option to keep your pet safe.
• Miscellaneous: It all depends on where you’re going! A coat may be necessary for cold climates, while sunblock should be packed for sunny days.

It’s hard to believe that pets require all of these things, but these products will make it an enjoyable trip for the whole family. We converted the previous list into a printable checklist to make getting ready for your summer fun easier!