Preparing Your Dog for Spring Travel: My Go-To Guide for Stress-Free Adventures
Paws Are GoodEvery spring as the frost melts and the air warms up, I get this itch to pack my bags, roll the windows down, and hit the road.
But I’m not going solo of course my co-pilot is my dog. He is a rescue with a nose for mischief and a heart bigger than my suitcase.
And if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years it’s that traveling with your dog in spring requires more than tossing a leash in the trunk.
So today, I’m sharing what actually works when it comes to preparing your dog for a spring trip based on my own real-life adventures (and a few chaotic mistakes 😅).
Whether you're planning your first dog-friendly getaway or you're a seasoned pet travel pro, this guide will help make sure your pup is safe, happy, and living their best spring break life.
Why Spring Travel with Dogs is the Best
Believe me, I used to be a summer-only traveler until I realized my furry friend doesn’t love the heat as much as I do.
Spring is now our favorite season to travel: the weather is mild, the flowers are blooming, and there’s something magical about seeing him tail wag down a quiet trail full of wildflowers.
Bonus? Spring means fewer crowds at pet-friendly destinations, open patios, and dog parks without the summer madness. Win-win for dog lovers like us!
🩺 Step 1: Start with a Quick Vet Visit (Trust Me, I Learned the Hard Way)
One year, we drove from Chicago to Smokey Mountains, Tennessee and I forgot to check if my dog’s flea meds were up to date. Long story short: tick city. Now I never skip our pre-trip vet visit.
Here’s what I ask for every time:
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A quick checkup to make sure he is healthy
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Updated vaccinations (especially rabies and Bordetella)
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Flea, tick, and heartworm meds as spring is the kickoff season for bugs
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Printout of vaccination records for dog in case I need them at hotels
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A conversation about travel anxiety solutions
It only takes 15 minutes, but it saves me tons of worry later.
🚗 Step 2: Ease Your Dog into Travel (Especially if They’re New to It)
Not every dog is born a travel pro. My furry friend used to hate the car yes believe me he'd pant, drool, and once even jumped into the front seat mid-highway (yikes!). What helped?
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Starting with short car rides to the park or drive-thru
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Letting her explore the parked car with treats and praise
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Using her crate or a backseat dog hammock with a view
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Playing calming music (seriously, dog Spotify is a thing)
Now he hops in like a seasoned road-tripper and claims the backseat like a throne.
🏖️ Step 3: Pick Dog-Friendly Places You’ll Both Enjoy
Here’s the thing: not all "dog-friendly" listings actually mean it. I’ve booked stays where “pet-friendly” meant “you can bring your dog but don’t let them bark, shed, or exist.”
Now I always check:
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Are dogs allowed on trails, patios, or beaches nearby?
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Are there off-leash parks or dog-friendly restaurants?
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What are the local leash laws or pet restrictions?
My dog’s favorite spring spots so far: the Smoky Mountains, Sedona’s red rocks, and the peaceful dog beaches along Lake Michigan.
👜 Step 4: Pack Like a Pro (Because Your Dog Needs Luggage Too)
I’m guilty of overpacking for both of us. But when it comes to traveling with your dog, it’s better to be over-prepared than scrambling at a gas station for a water bowl.
Here’s what I always pack for my dog:
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Collapsible water and food bowls
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Her regular kibble + some extra in case of delays
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Leash + back-up leash (learned that one the hard way)
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Paw wipes and a towel for muddy stops
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Poop bags (like... a lot of them)
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Her bed or blanket that smells like home
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Chew toys and puzzle toys for downtime
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Her favorite calming spray for new environments
Pro tip: I keep a “doggy go bag” ready year-round so I can just grab and go. Also, check list of my recommendations on dog grooming tools for spring season.
🌦️ Step 5: Spring = Weather Surprises
One trip we ended up caught in a random spring showers, and trust me my dog was not amused. Now I’m always ready for the unexpected:
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I pack her lightweight raincoat
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Bring a couple of drying towels
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Use paw balm to protect her from muddy trails or rocky terrain
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Keep a mini first-aid kit with tweezers (for burrs and ticks), gauze, and vet wrap
Spring is beautiful, but it’s wild. Better to be that overprepared dog mom than to let your pup shiver in a puddle.
🧘 Step 6: Keep Things Familiar on the Road
The most helpful thing I ever learned? Dogs thrive on routine. Even when we’re in new cities, I try to keep schedule:
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Same feeding times
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Walks around similar times
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Familiar command cues and bedtime routine
I also bring my shirt or blanket with my scent to help her feel safe at night.
She still explores like a curious little traveler, but knowing that dinner is at 6PM no matter where we are makes her feel at home even if we’re 1,000 miles away.
📷 Step 7: Savor the Moments (Even the Messy Ones)
One of my favorite memories is from last spring, when Max chased butterflies in a field of bluebonnets in Texas. She got so muddy she looked like a chocolate lab. I was annoyed at the time but now I smile every time I see the photo.
Traveling with your dog won’t be perfect. They’ll roll in things, bark at squirrels, and steal your snacks. But they’ll also remind you to stop, sniff, and enjoy the world around you. It’s not just a vacation but I would say it’s bonding time.
Bonus: Quick Checklist for Dog Moms on the Go
✅ Vet check-up
✅ Updated ID tags
✅ Pet-friendly lodging booked
✅ Food, treats, and meds packed
✅ Weather gear (raincoat, towel, wipes)
✅ Favorite toy and bed
✅ Calming tools if needed
✅ Emergency vet info saved in phone
✅ Camera ready for adorable travel pics
You + Your Dog = The Best Spring Break Ever
If there’s one thing I hope you take from this then it’s this: you don’t have to be a perfect pet parent to travel well. In my opinion you just have to be a prepared one.
Dogs love the journey as much as the destination. With a little planning, a lot of patience, and a car full of treats, spring travel with your pup can be the highlight of your year.
You may also find my post on dog friendly spring activities to enjoy the spring while you are not traveling.
So pack that bag, grab the leash, and hit the road. Your dog deserves to see the world with their favorite human by their side.
And if you’re looking for the cutest dog mom gear to wear on your trip, you already know - PawsAreGood.com has your back (and your backseat pup covered). 💖
