Summer Travel? Here’s How to Keep Your Puppy Safe on the Road

shanaPuppy Health & Medical

Summer Travel? Here’s How to Keep Your Puppy Safe on the Road

There’s nothing like a summer road trip — the open highway, sunshine, and maybe even a stop for ice cream. But if you’re bringing a puppy along for the ride, there’s more to plan than just the playlist. Whether you’re fostering, adopting, or traveling with your own pup, safety and preparation are key to a stress-free adventure.

Here’s how to keep your puppy safe, healthy, and happy during your summer travels.

🧳 Puppy Packing List: Don’t Leave Home Without These

Just like traveling with a toddler, puppies come with a lot of gear. Here’s what you’ll want to pack:

  • Health records & ID tags

  • Harness, leash, and collar

  • Comfort items (a blanket, favorite toy, or crate mat)

  • Pee pads, poop bags, and cleanup wipes

  • Feeding supplies (food, bowls, water bottle)

  • Enough food and water for the entire trip

  • Puppy-safe first aid kit

  • Medications or supplements, if applicable

Make a checklist and double it — you never know when you’ll hit a delay or detour.

🚗 Safe Car Setup: No Loose Puppies Allowed

Letting your puppy roam around the car might look cute — but it’s not safe. A sudden stop or sharp turn can send them flying, which is dangerous for both of you.

Keep it safe with:

  • A crash-tested crate or carrier, secured in the back seat

  • A puppy seatbelt or harness that attaches to the seatbelt system

  • Plenty of airflow, without direct sun or hot air blowing on them

  • Never placing your puppy in the front seat — airbags can cause serious injury

Comfort and containment are the keys to a smooth ride.

🧊 Heat Hazards: Protecting Puppies from Hot Car Dangers

A parked car can turn deadly in minutes — even with the windows cracked. Puppies overheat quickly, and summer heat adds serious risk.

Never leave your puppy alone in a parked car.
Not even for “just a minute.”

Watch for signs of overheating, including:

  • Heavy panting or drooling

  • Bright red gums

  • Weakness or vomiting

  • Lethargy or collapse

If you notice these symptoms, move your puppy to a cool space immediately, offer water, and contact a vet.

Pro tip: Pack a cooling mat or clip-on fan to make rest stops safer and more comfortable.

🧺 What Else to Pack: Emergency and Comfort Items

Here are a few extras to help your trip go smoothly:

  • Travel-size cleaning supplies (accidents happen!)

  • Portable playpen or crate for use at your destination

  • Towels and extra bedding

  • Puppy-safe bug repellents if you’ll be outdoors

  • A list of emergency vet clinics along your route

Planning ahead makes all the difference when you’re on the move.

🌴 Going on Vacation? We’ve Got You Covered

Already fostering but planning a getaway? No worries. At Blazin’ Trails, we offer short-term vacation fosters who can step in and care for your pup while you travel. That way, you can enjoy your time away knowing your puppy is safe and loved.

If you’re considering fostering, don’t let summer plans hold you back. We’ll work with your schedule and provide all the support you need.

💛 Want to foster this summer?

Whether you’re home for the season or planning a quick trip, we’ve got your back.
👉 Apply to foster: https://blazintrailsbottlebabies.org/foster/

Not ready to foster yet? You can still support puppies in need.
👉 Make a summer donation: https://blazintrailsbottlebabies.org/donate/