The first trip with your dog is unforgettable. In my case, because it went wrong in every possible way. I had read blogs, bought accessories, checked the microchip and health book: I thought I had everything. Yet, I learned seven things just by making the mistakes I’m about to share with you, which I hope to spare you from.
1. The dog doesn’t “get used to the car” on the day of departure
It seems obvious, but it’s the first mistake that is made. If the dog doesn’t regularly get into the car, starting a 600 km journey is a guaranteed trauma. At least 3 weeks before departure, start with short trips — 5 minutes, to the park. Then 15 minutes. Then half an hour. Always with something pleasant at the destination.
2. Don’t feed them 4 hours before, but also not 12 hours before
An empty stomach doesn’t prevent motion sickness; rather, it amplifies nausea. The rule: last light meal 3-4 hours before departure, and always have water available. If your dog is prone to motion sickness, talk to your vet: there are specific medications (maropitant) that are very effective.
3. The seatbelt/crate is not optional
In Italy, the Highway Code imposes penalties if the dog travels freely in the car. But more importantly: in the event of braking at 50 km/h, a 20 kg dog becomes a projectile weighing 600 kg. The options are:
- Hard crate in the trunk (maximum safety)
- Crash-tested seatbelt harness (never tied to the collar)
- Dividing net + anti-slip mat
4. A stop every 2 hours is not just for bathroom breaks; it’s for decompressing
Even if they don’t need to relieve themselves, getting out to stretch and sniff around for 10 minutes resets stress. Look for rest areas with grass, not just scorching asphalt. Always keep fresh water and a collapsible bowl in the trunk.
5. The rest area in August is a weapon
The asphalt rest areas in July-August can exceed 60°C: paw pads can get burned in 30 seconds. Hand test: if you can’t keep your palm on the asphalt for 5 seconds, it’s too hot. Walk on the grass or carry them.
6. The “pet-friendly” establishment isn’t really “pet-friendly”
“We accept dogs” can mean 50 things. Before booking, ask:
- Where does the dog sleep? (In the room? In a crate? In the car?)
- Can they be left in the room when you go out for dinner?
- Are there places where they can be off-leash?
- Are the common areas (pool, private beach, indoor restaurant) accessible?
The real answers lie in the last three questions.
7. The most important document is the health book
In Italy, the health book with valid vaccinations is enough. If you are going abroad, you need a European passport (issued by the veterinary ASL), a microchip, rabies vaccination valid for at least 21 days, and for some countries (UK, Norway, Ireland) specific antiparasitic treatment within 24-120 hours before entry. Check at least 30 days in advance.
The checklist 24 hours before
- Sealed bottled water (water change = stomach upset)
- Regular food for all travel days
- Travel bowl + water bowl
- Leash + spare leash
- Hygienic bags (always double what you think)
- Blanket or bed with “their” smell
- Chew toys (for the trip)
- Health book + recent photos of the dog (in case of loss)
- Saved contact number of your local veterinarian
- Contact numbers for veterinarians in the destination area
Before we say goodbye
The real secret to traveling with your dog is not the accessories: it’s the time you spent beforehand training them to be calm during transfers, waiting times, and in new places. If you build that foundation, traveling together becomes the most natural thing in the world.
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