The adventurous dog and dog owner may want nothing more than the opportunity to travel together and create amazing memories away from the comforts of home. But if neither of you are prepared for weather extremes, it can sour the trip just as easily as if you were traveling with a human companion.

Fortunately, with proper preparation on both your behalf and your pup’s, it won’t be hard to outfit yourselves to enjoy your travel adventure even if it’s raining or snowing outside. Here are some tips to ensure that your dog can travel like a champ with you, no matter the weather:

1) Ensure Your Dog Is in Good Health Before Setting Out

Before embarking on any trip, it’s important to ensure that your dog is in good health. After all, a healthy dog isn’t only happier, but is also more resilient to the stresses that come with travel and changing weather conditions.

This is especially important when dealing with cold, wet environments, as dogs with underlying health issues may be more vulnerable to complications like hypothermia or respiratory infections. As such, a visit to the vet for a check-up is a wise first step to make sure your pup is properly fit for the journey.

Taking the time to confirm your dog’s health can greatly enhance the travel experience for your furry friend. Your vet can also provide you with valuable advice on any specific precautions you should take based on your dog’s health status, age, or breed. For instance, if your dog is prone to joint issues, especially in colder weather, your vet might recommend supplements or medications that can make the trip more comfortable for them.

In good health, your dog is likely to be more energetic, responsive, and adaptable to new situations—ultimately making the trip more enjoyable and less stressful for the two of you.

2) Ready Your Dog’s Rain or Snow Gear

Just as you wouldn’t venture out into rainy or snowy weather without appropriate clothing, it’s important to outfit your dog with the right gear as well. Snow boots, insulated jackets, and custom dog coats are fashionable pet items that will prove essential in protecting your canine companion from the elements.

Depending on your dog’s breed and coat type, they can be just as susceptible to the cold and wet as humans. You’ll want to invest in quality rain or snow gear for your dog to keep them dry, warm, and comfortable, even when the weather outside is unpleasant.

3) Ensure Your Canine Buddy Is Comfortable While Traveling

Traveling, especially over long distances or in unfamiliar environments, can be stressful for dogs, and this stress can be exacerbated by uncomfortable travel conditions (e.g. cramped spaces, loud noises, or prolonged periods of confinement). Comfortable dogs are less likely to become restless or exhibit anxiety-driven behaviors, such as excessing barking or whining.

To minimize their anxiety and discomfort, you’ll want to engineer a cozy and secure environment for them—one that will afford them a sense of familiarity and security away from home as well as help you regulate their internal temperature. This could involve bringing along their favorite blanket, bed, and toys.

You should also take regular breaks during the trip to allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and get some fresh air. This will definitely contribute towards keeping them calm throughout the entire trip, making it a more pleasant journey for everyone involved.

4) Keep Your Dog Safe

Safety should always be a top priority when traveling with your dog, particularly in challenging weather conditions. Rainy or snowy environments can present a host of hazards, from slippery roads to reduced visibility—all of which can put both you and your dog at risk.

One of the most important safety precautions for a rainy or snowy journey on the road is to ensure your dog is securely restrained in the vehicle. Whether using a travel crate, a harness, or a seat belt attachment, you’ll want to prevent your dog from moving around unnecessarily in the car, which could distract the driver or lead to injury in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

Also don’t forget to keep your dog on a leash at all times when outside, especially when exploring unfamiliar environments. You wouldn’t want your canine buddy to run off and get lost during your travels. Outfit them as well with reflective collars, leashes, or jackets, as these pet products can help ensure that your dog is visible to others and reduce the risk of accidents.

5) Stay Abreast of Any Local Weather Changes

Even if you monitor it religiously from your smart device, the weather can be unpredictable. What starts as a mild drizzle or light snowfall can quickly turn into a severe storm or blizzard.

Be aware of the latest weather forecasts at all hours of the day so that you can make the wisest decisions about your travel plans with your dog, such as altering your route, delaying your trip, or finding shelter before conditions worsen. This is especially important when traveling through areas with a history of sudden weather shifts or regions that are unfamiliar to you.

With these tips at your disposal, snow and rain shouldn’t deter you and your pooch from the ultimate travel adventure. Stay safe and make the necessary preparations for a “paw-some” trip!