Road Trip Ready: TurfMutt's Holiday Travel Tips

For many of us, the family dog is the ultimate travel companion. Mulligan the TurfMutt loves a holiday road trip as much as the next pooch, but she wants to make sure your "backyard buddy" stays safe while you're navigating the highway.

Before you load up the sleigh (or the car or SUV), check out these holiday travel tips from the TurfMutt Foundation:

• Digital & Physical Records: It’s a good idea to keep a folder with your pup’s vet records, specifically proof of rabies vaccination. Snap a photo of these documents or save them to the cloud so you have them on your phone at all times.
• Update Your ID: Is your dog’s microchip information still current? Double-check that your tag includes a reachable cell phone number. If you use a GPS collar, make sure it’s fully charged before you pull out of the driveway.
• Safety First, Comfort Second: A crash-tested crate or carrier is the safest spot for your dog. Ensure it’s large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If you use a car harness, make sure it’s properly tethered to the seatbelt system and keep them in the back seat to avoid airbag risks.
• The Ultimate "Doggy Bag": Pack a dedicated travel kit for your pup. Include a leash, waste bags, enough food/water for your trip, bowls and any necessary medications. Don't forget a "scent of home"—a favorite toy or well-loved blanket can significantly reduce travel anxiety.
• Temperature & Tech: Never leave your dog alone in a parked car. Even in winter, a car can act like a refrigerator, dropping to dangerous temperatures in minutes. Use travel apps to find dog-friendly rest stops, restaurants and hotels along your route so you never have to leave your best friend behind.

When you stop for a break, remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times. New environments, loud highway noises and holiday crowds can spook even the calmest dogs. Give them a few minutes to stretch their legs on some green space—TurfMutt’s favorite part of the trip!

To learn more about the importance of green space for people, pets and the planet, go to TurfMutt.com.