Pet Friendly Picks: Car Accessories for Traveling with Your Furry Friends

As pet owners, we have all embraced our dogs and cats as more than just pets – they’re family! But when your family hits the open road, you need the right car accessories to make the trip safer, smoother, and just generally more fun for all. Here are some of the top pet-friendly car accessories for your journey:

1. Dog Seat Covers and Hammocks

• Keep your car seats looking clean and new! Whether your pet happens to be a black lab who loves to swim or you have a calico Persian who is a little fluffy, these seat covers help!
• Hammock style seat covers help keep your dog from falling into the footwell if you stop suddenly and also create a snuggly space for your pup.

2. Pet Seat Belt and Harness

• Safety first! Both of these products were created to keep your pet safe while on the road.
• Clip the seatbelt into your usual car seat belt clip, and you can secure your pet with the leash part on the other end. Alternately, the harness looks like a comfy dog harness and does the same job.
• For bigger dogs, you can buckle up your cat or small dog so they cannot wander, fall off the seat, or otherwise distract you while you’re driving.

3. Water Bowl for Rides and Storage

• Of course! Your pets need to stay hydrated on the road as well. Collapsible water bowls make it easy to give them that!
• Plus: Don’t forget to pack a bag of “spill-proof” pet food for the trip!

4. Pet First Aid Kit

• Three words: Accidents happen, and you need to be prepared.
• Consider bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and rubber gloves.

5. Window Shades and Ventilation

• Keep your pet out of the bright sunlight so their eyes are healthy and they also stay cool.
• Just like you, pets need fresh air and good air circulation.

6. Pet Ramp or Steps

• Older or smaller pets might need an aid getting in and out of the car. Foldable ramps or a series of steps make it less cumbersome for them.
• For those with cats, steps could be more beneficial as cats prefer a gradual ascent.

7. Car Barrier or Pet Net

• Barriers will be more useful to keep the pet securely in the back seat or behind the trunk of your car. It is also helpful to restrict the distraction to the driver while riding their vehicles.
• For cat owners, they can choose a pet net as it can also keep them from climbing the back row.

8. Pet Waste Bags and Mini Trash Bin

• Keeping a stock of waste bags at all times is vital to all pet owners.
• Don’t forget the little trash bin, especially for cat owners, to keep your car clean.

9. Pet-Safe GPS Tracker

• GPS trackers are handy in case your pet escapes at a rest stop.
• For cat owners, it is beneficial to make sure to have a GPS tracker in your carrier, as cats are adept at escaping.

10. Comfort Items: Blanket and Toys

• Bring their blanket for comfort; it is also preferred to get their toys packed.
• Pets may get stressed or anxious during travel, so bringing a scented blanket or an old shirt will make them feel more at ease.

Tips for Traveling with Cats in a Rented Car

It is important to ask the car vehicle rentals about their policies on renting or using their provided accessories. Now is your time to hit the road along with your furry friend! Traveling with cats can be joyous and pleasant on rented trips.

1. Choose a well-ventilated carrier: Your cat should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
2. Let your cat explore the carrier: If your cat isn’t used to carriers, let it get acclimated to it.
3. Beat the heat: Cats can get overheated just like humans. Make sure your cat is in a well-ventilated area in the car and out of direct sunlight. Never leave your pet alone in a parked car, especially in warm weather. Always take them with you.
4. Gather your supplies: Pack the essentials, such as food, water, litter, and a leash.
5. Secure the carrier: In the car, make sure the carrier is properly secure. This can be with the use of seat belts or even in the trunk.
6. Check your accommodations: If you’re staying the night, make sure the place allows cats. Not a lot of hotels are cat-friendly. Opt for a rental that allows cats instead.
7. Expect the unexpected: Traveling can be stressful and scary, particularly for your cat. Some cats may growl or howl the entire trip but stay calm. You’re not alone, and you can keep your cat calm by continuing to reassure it.
8. Microchip your cat: By now, you should have a microchip in your cat. The procedures for traveling with a cat involve the possibility that your animal might go missing.
9. Comfort items: Try to bring something familiar. That can be your cat’s bed or a soft blanket, something that smells like home.
10. Rewards and cuddles: To keep your cat happy and comfortable, remember to provide it with treats and occasional cuddles.

Considerations for Renting a Car with Pets

As evident below, a little planning and patience can enable traveling with your cat and a rented car easily. Positive reinforcement has always been of assistance since the cat will receive treats and affection in the course of the trip. As such, you can see above that traveling with a cat using a rented car is not complicated. Most car rental companies have concluded that pets need traveling, and as such, dog and cat lovers can travel in rented cars even before getting vehicles of their own. However, this list includes a few things you need to remember:

1. Avis Rent a Car:
   • They accept dogs and cats, both big and small.
   • When you arrive at your destination, make sure to check their pet policy and any additional payments.
2. Enterprise:
   • The cars have restrictions, and they may require their clients to put their dogs in carriers.
   • Please ask them about their pet policy before getting the rented car.
3. Cleaning Fees and Deposits:
   • The greater part of car rental companies charge you extra cleaning fees or deposits when your car does not come back in the same state in which you received it.
   • Give them any valid credit card for identification. This credit card can be put into use if the car rental company concludes that you owe them extra because of pet hair and otherwise that your pet has left in their car.
4. Size Limits:
   • There are no formal size limits, but make sure to check the fine print.
   • For example, if you have a big dog, it would help if you were sure that you are getting a car fit to rent with a pet of that size in its premises.
5. Use Your Own Seat Covers:
   • When traveling with a cat, make sure you bring your travel blanket and pet seat covers.
   • This is because they prevent hair and dirt in their car and guarantee that you use them in the same way that you found the car rental company when returning the car.
6. Choose Practical Over Fancy:
   • While luxurious cars may seem appealing, they are not, and it would be better if you get yourself a practical car.
   • This is because the cost you may charge if your pet spoils the car seat may differ immensely from a sleek car.

Litter Box Options for Long Car Rides with Cats

If you decide to go on a long car ride with your cat, you will need a litter box. Here are some of the options to consider:

1. Disposable Litter Boxes:
   • Pre-filled disposable litter boxes are practical and travel-friendly. You can use them during the journey and dispose of them as needed.
   • Some brands come with a perforated lid that is easy to remove. You can leave the box when your cat is covered and put the lid back on to contain the odor and the mess.
   • You can also keep them for extended periods, especially on the road.
2. Collapsible Litter Boxes:
   • A litter box that folds or collapses is ideal for travel. It does not occupy much space and can be packed away easily.
   • It can be extended for use, meaning you can get a full-size litter box.
   • Choose some high-quality and robust material that your cat will not scratch or puncture.
3. Litter Box Liners:
   • Find a small plastic container or a shallow box and line it with a litter box liner.
   • Fill with cat’s usual litter and dispose of the liner as needed.
4. Plastic Storage Container:
   • Find a shallow plastic storage container with a lid.
   • Cut a hole in the lid that is large enough for your cat to enter.
   • Fill the container with litter, secure it with the lid and take it with you in the car.
5. Regular Litter Pans:
   • If you are not space-conscious, you can use your cat’s regular litter pan. Just be sure it is stable, secure, and not easy to spill, and you do not mind the smell.
   • Be sure to show your cat its travel litter box before the trip. Allowing it to explore the litter box at home will reduce its stress and anxiety during the journey. Happy travels!

Conclusion

Before you hit the road, remember, pet-friendly travel is all about preparation, safety, and comfort, whether you plan to escape to the countryside or take a stroll through the city. Let me introduce you to some pet-friendly car accessories that will make your journey a breeze:

• Dog seat covers/hammocks are perfect for protecting car seats and creating a cozy spot for your furry friend.
• A pet seat belt or harness specifically made for cats and small dogs is ideal for your pet’s safety.
• Travel water bowls/food containers will take care of proper hydration and nutrition for your pet.
• A pet-friendly first aid kit will help you take care of some minor pet ailments on the go.
• Window shades and ventilation will protect your pet from direct sunlight and overheating.
• Pet ramp or steps will assist older pets or puppies who are too little to hop in the car on their own.
• A car barrier or a pet net will keep your pet in the back seat or cargo area.
• Pet waste bags along with a trash bin for responsible pet ownership.
• A pet-friendly GPS tracker will give you peace of mind if you ever make an unscheduled stop for sightseeing.

And before you rent such a vehicle, contact your rentals with inquiries and information regarding your pet’s comfort. Be it a ride around the corner or a country-wide adventure, may you wag your tails and have an ever-joyful traveling experience.