CityVet, a trusted name in veterinary care and pet wellness services, is thrilled to announce that it has also been certified as a Great Place To Work®.  
 
This prestigious award is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our incredible team and our commitment to creating a workplace culture that is second to none. 

A Distinctive Achievement 

Great Place To Work® is a globally recognized authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and leadership behaviors that lead to outstanding business outcomes. The certification we have received is a result of the candid feedback provided by our employees who have rated CityVet as a fantastic place to work.  

This year, an impressive 86% of our team members affirmed that CityVet is indeed a great place to build their careers – a remarkable 29 points higher than the U.S. average for companies. 

Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work, aptly stated, “Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience. By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that CityVet stands out as one of the top companies to work for; providing a great workplace environment for its employees.” 

A Commitment to Inclusivity and Excellence 

At CityVet, we understand that a great workplace starts with creating an inclusive and supportive culture. David Boguslawski, our CEO, expresses our commitment, “We are honored to earn the Great Place To Work certification as we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace culture for our staff, veterinarians, and clinic operations.” He goes on to emphasize that our team’s unwavering dedication to providing top-notch care to our clients and their beloved pets is a cornerstone of our success. 
 
What sets CityVet apart is our unique business model, where our clinics are owned and led by our veterinarians. This personalized approach means our veterinarians take ownership of every client, pet, and employee that walks through our doors, ensuring the highest level of care and service. 

Investing in Our Team 

CityVet prides itself on taking exceptional care of our employees, providing them with the tools and benefits to excel both at work and in their personal lives. Our commitment to our valuable team members is evident in our above-industry-standard employee retention rate.  

Over the past year, we’ve implemented tools, and mentorship to support them. In 2022, CityVet achieved a remarkable 0% turnover among our Veterinary Partners, with our overall veterinarian retention rate standing strong at 90%. 

One significant initiative that has made a substantial impact is the overhaul of our employee benefits structure. After careful analysis and collaboration with CEO Dave Boguslawski, our Human Resources team revamped our benefits, offering more robust packages, additional PTO, parental leave, and mental health advocacy. We’ve redistributed PTO to ensure that employees can enjoy these benefits sooner, resulting in happier employees and lower turnover for new hires.  

Mental health support is also a priority at CityVet. We now offer free counseling sessions, available to both team members and their families. We’ve also introduced a third-party tool to help identify when someone is struggling and provide guidance on how best to offer assistance. 

We have additionally invested significantly in leadership development, conflict resolution, and other personal development programs. 

Championing Women and Giving Back to the Community 

CityVet is dedicated to championing women in the industry, with 82% of our total workforce represented by women. We offer benefits and flexibility to meet their needs, including paid parental leave, mentorship programs, and mental health support. 

Our commitment to the community is unwavering. In 2022, CityVet conducted a Holiday Food Drive, raising over 5,000 pounds of pet food for those in need and donating to 16 different rescues across multiple cities. We actively participated in over 20 community events, partnering with local shelters, rescues, and organizations. Last year, CityVet donated approximately $500,000 in goods and services to support pets in need and rescue shelters. 

This year, we’ve established a Home Office Culture Committee to further enhance our company culture and communication as we continue to grow. Philanthropy and community service are at the core of this committee’s mission, and we look forward to expanding our efforts in the coming years. 

In conclusion, CityVet is not just a place where pets receive exceptional care; it’s a place where employees thrive, communities benefit, and kindness prevails.  

The Great Place To Work certification reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and the well-being of our team and the pets we serve. We are proud to continue providing top-notch pet care and fostering a great workplace for our dedicated employees. Thank you for choosing CityVet as your trusted partner in pet health and wellness.

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting moment for the family, but it’s important to be prepared for the responsibility of caring for a new furry family member. One of the most important things you can do for your puppy is to get them vaccinated. Vaccinations help protect your puppy from serious diseases that can be harmful.

Common Diseases That Puppy Vaccinations Guard Against

• Parvovirus: Parvovirus affects a puppy’s gastrointestinal tract, causing severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and possible death.
• Distemper: This viral disease can lead to respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous system issues, potentially resulting in permanent damage.
• Canine Hepatitis: A liver infection that can cause fever, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, liver failure.
• Rabies: A fatal disease affecting the central nervous system, which can also be transmitted to humans.
• ​​Bordetella: Bacteria that causes severe upper respiratory disease and pneumonia.

Frequency of Puppy Vaccinations

The vaccination schedule for puppies is carefully designed to provide optimal protection during their early stages of life. Generally, puppies start receiving vaccinations at around 8 weeks of age, with a series of booster shots administered every 3-4 weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age.

Regular booster shots are necessary to ensure their immunity remains strong as they grow. After the initial vaccinations, adult dogs usually require booster shots every 1 to 3 years, depending on their lifestyle and the prevalence of diseases in their environment.

Additional Tips for Keeping a Puppy Healthy

• Quality Nutrition: Provide your puppy with a well-balanced diet that meets their specific nutritional needs.
• Regular Veterinary Check-Ups: Schedule routine check-ups with your local CityVet to monitor your puppy’s health, address any concerns, and ensure they receive the appropriate vaccinations.
• Socialization: Expose your puppy to various environments, people, and other vaccinated dogs in a safe manner to promote healthy socialization.
• Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Engage your puppy in regular exercise and mental stimulation.
• Safe Environment: Puppy-proof your home to eliminate potential hazards.
• Grooming: Regular grooming not only keeps your puppy looking fresh but also helps detect any skin issues or abnormalities early on.

By prioritizing puppy vaccinations and overall well-being, we create a foundation for a happy and healthy life for our beloved companions.

As a veterinarian, my visits to pet stores are quite rare- usually, I am able to bring home most of what our family’s eight pets need with me from work. But recently I was at my local pet store looking for a light for Captain Kirby Hardshell, our Red-Eared Slider turtle, when I noticed the giant section of pet vitamins and supplements. I knew that this was a growing market but I was still shocked at all of the options. I figured that if I felt overwhelmed by all of the choices then my non-veterinary field friends might appreciate a little guidance in this area.

First, I think it is important to define what we are talking about. In the United States, a “drug” is a substance used to treat medical conditions, tightly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Think anti-inflammatories or antibiotics – these undergo rigorous testing to ensure they’re not only pure but also safe and effective. Some are available over the counter, like ibuprofen, while others, such as cephalexin, require a prescription. On the other hand, a “supplement” can encompass vitamins, minerals, herbs, botanicals, and dietary nutrients. Unlike drugs, they don’t face the same stringent scrutiny. Manufacturers must follow certain FDA guidelines, but they can’t make direct medical claims.

Before you consider introducing a new supplement to your pet’s routine, I strongly recommend seeking advice from your veterinarian. The market is flooded with options, and I’ve witnessed many pet owners spending money on supplements that ultimately offer little benefit to their furry companions. I have seen puppies with bone growth abnormalities and older dogs with bladder stones because a calcium-containing multivitamin was given.

Furthermore, the lack of a regulatory body for supplement manufacturing makes it challenging to gauge product quality. At the very least, purity should be assured – meaning the product is free from contaminants. Take CBD or Hemp Oil, for instance, a popular pet supplement often tainted with substances like turpentine, pesticides, heavy metals, and anticoagulants. If a manufacturer can’t provide proof of purity through independent lab testing, it’s wise to question the safety. Remember, the cheapest option might compromise quality. Look for products with a transparent ingredient list, specified ingredient amounts, lot number, expiration date, and manufacturer contact details in case of issues.

Look for products that are evidence-based or supported by strong medical evidence. There are so many products now offered by small and large companies that it is easy to get caught up in the marketing. Your veterinarian can help you start by diagnosing the issue and then help you sift through the supplement options to determine if one may help your pet. Many of my patients benefit from a drug and supplement combination to provide relief.

Summer travel is in full swing, meaning plenty of pet owners are boarding their furry companions while they are away. Summer is a prime time for respiratory disease outbreaks in our canine companions, and one of the concerns that you have likely heard about is an uptick in the cases of “Kennel Cough”. By understanding this condition and its implications, pet owners can take appropriate measures to minimize the risks to their canine friends.

“Kennel cough”, which is a common name for the condition known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. It is commonly spread in environments where dogs gather in close proximity, such as boarding kennels, dog parks, and training facilities. Understanding the signs, prevention methods, and necessary steps to take if your dog contracts kennel cough is essential in maintaining their health and well-being.

“Kennel cough” is a highly contagious respiratory condition that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. It is characterized by sneezing, nasal discharge, and/or a dry, hacking cough, which can be alarming for pet owners. Kennel cough is caused by a combination of infectious agents, including bacteria (such as Bordetella bronchiseptica) and viruses (such as canine influenza and canine parainfluenza virus). Dogs primarily contract kennel cough through close contact with other dogs, such as kennels, grooming facilities, and dog parks. While kennel cough is usually a mild illness, it can progress to more severe respiratory complications, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or those with weakened immune systems.

Prevention Methods

• Vaccination and Prevention: Vaccination is the primary method for reducing the signs and symptoms and includes immunization against some of the agents such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, Canine influenza, and canine parainfluenza virus. Your veterinary team will be able to advise you on the appropriate vaccination schedule.
• Minimize Exposure: When possible, avoid exposing your dog to crowded or poorly ventilated areas where the risk of infection is higher. If your dog is already infected, it is important to minimize contact with other dogs until they have fully recovered in order to help prevent further spread of the disease.
• Hygiene Practices: Maintain good hygiene practices by regularly cleaning and disinfecting your dog’s bedding, toys, and food and water bowls.
• Preventive care: A healthy pet can fight off infections more effectively. Ensure your dog receives a balanced diet, regular exercise, proper veterinary care, and vaccinations to enhance their overall health and immune response.

Are Certain Breeds More Prone to Kennel Cough?

While any dog can contract kennel cough, certain breeds can develop more severe clinical signs due to their anatomical characteristics. Dogs with short or flat noses (such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers) have a higher risk of developing symptoms from kennel cough infections due to the anatomical makeup of their nose and airways.

More recent outbreaks- Canine Influenza:

In recent years, canine influenza (CIV), commonly known as the dog flu, has emerged as another viral component of kennel cough. There are two common subtypes of the Canine influenza virus: H3N8 and H3N2. Similar to other viruses that contribute to the infectious respiratory disease complex, CIV spreads easily among dogs through respiratory secretions and contaminated objects. The symptoms of canine influenza are similar to kennel cough, including coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy.

Vaccines are available for both H3N8 and H3N2 strains of canine influenza. Dogs that have regular contact with other dogs, such as those attending daycare, boarding facilities, dog parks, dog shows, or any situation where contact with other dogs occur, may benefit from the addition of CIV vaccination to their preventive care regimen.

What to Do if Your Dog Gets Kennel Cough

If your dog has symptoms of kennel cough, please consult your veterinarian. Your veterinarians can examine and determine what is causing your dog’s symptoms. Your veterinarian may run additional tests to assist in the diagnosis and determine the best and most appropriate treatment for your dog. Mild cases of kennel cough may resolve on their own, but in most instances, treatment can help with both the discomfort and with helping to shorten the duration and/or spread.

Treatment may include cough suppressants, antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections, and, in severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care.

You cannot read the news without seeing something about how AI is changing industries or how ChatGPT is replacing jobs. To test how effective this is, we decided to put ChatGPT to the test. We asked the tool if it would be able to replace the work veterinarians do and would be able to diagnose your pet’s ailments. Surprisingly, we actually agree with the response! Check out the reply ChatGPT gave us below:

“No, I cannot do just as well as your veterinarian. Your veterinarian is a trained and licensed professional who has years of experience and knowledge in diagnosing and treating animals. Your veterinarian can also perform physical examinations, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and other procedures that are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Your veterinarian can also prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and provide follow-up care for your dog.

I am an AI chatbot that can generate text based on a given input, but I am not a reliable source of medical information or advice. I have many limitations and challenges that prevent me from providing accurate and helpful diagnosis and treatment for your dog. As I explained before, some of these limitations are:

• • I do not have common sense or emotional intelligence, which means I may provide nonsensical or inappropriate responses to your queries .
  • I cannot access the internet or verify the accuracy of the information I generate, which means I may provide wrong or outdated answers to your questions .
  • I am limited by the data I am trained on, which may reflect biases and prejudices of the society that generated it, which means I may provide discriminatory or harmful responses to your queries .
  • I cannot handle multiple tasks or provide in-depth information, which means I may struggle to understand the context and background of your queries or generate long-form, structured content .

Therefore, you should not rely on me to diagnose your dog or any other health-related issue. Instead, you should consult a qualified veterinarian who can provide professional and accurate diagnosis and treatment for your dog. Please do not risk your dog’s health and well-being by using ChatGPT as a substitute for veterinary care. Thank you for understanding.”

The summer season brings many glorious sunny days, but it also can bring scorching temperatures that can have adverse effects on our furry friends. As responsible pet owners, it is important to understand the impact that summer heat can have on dogs and take necessary precautions to keep them safe and comfortable.

What Temperatures are Too Hot for Dogs?

Unlike people, dogs have a very limited ability to sweat, which in turn makes them rather inefficient in cooling their body temperature. In fact, your dog’s main cooling mechanism is by panting, which is why being confined in a small, closed space with high temperatures (like a closed and locked car on a summer day) can quickly lead to overheating and heat stroke. The temperature threshold at which it becomes unsafe for dogs to be outside varies based on factors such as breed, size, age, and overall health. However, as a general guideline, it is advisable to keep dogs indoors or provide shade and water whenever the temperature exceeds 85°F. Above 90°F (32°C), the risk of heatstroke significantly increases.

Prevention Methods to Keep Dogs Safe

There are a number of ways to safeguard your pet against the summer heat and help keep them safe and cool.

• Provide Ample Shade: Ensure your dog has access to shaded areas, such as under trees or umbrellas, when outdoors. Consider creating a covered spot with a canopy or awning.
• Fresh Water Supply: Always keep a bowl of fresh, cool water available for your dog. Check it regularly to ensure that it remains clean and replenished.
• Limit Outdoor Exercise: Restrict physical activities during peak heat hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, schedule walks or playtime in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler.
• Protective Paw Care: Hot pavement or sand can burn your dog’s paws. Walk your dog on grassy areas whenever possible and avoid streets and sidewalks, or use protective booties to shield their paws from hot surfaces.
• Avoid Hot Cars: Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes. The temperature inside a car can rise to dangerous levels rapidly, leading to heat stroke or death.
  Beating the Heat- Protecting Your Canine Companion in Summer

Signs of Overheating

When temperatures rise be vigilant and do your best to recognize signs of heat stress or overheating in dogs as soon as they occur. Common indicators include excessive panting and drooling, rapid or irregular heartbeat, lethargy or weakness, glazed eyes, and dizziness, vomiting or diarrhea, dark or bright red gums and tongue, and/or collapse or seizures.

Steps to Take If Your Dog is Overheating

• Move to a Cooler Area: Bring your dog indoors or seek shade immediately.
• Offer Water: Allow your dog to drink small amounts of cool water. Do not force them to drink.
• Cool Down: Wet your dog’s body with cool (not cold) water. You can use damp towels or spray water gently on them. Apply cold packs to their head, neck, and chest.
• Fan Air: Use a fan or air conditioning to facilitate air circulation and help lower their body temperature.
• Contact your Veterinarian: Even if your dog appears to recover, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention. Internal damage may not be apparent, and professional evaluation is necessary to avoid the possibility of long-term effects to your pet’s health.

As summer temperatures soar, it is our responsibility to protect our four-legged companions from the perils of excessive heat. By understanding the risks, implementing preventive measures, and recognizing the signs of overheating, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our beloved dogs. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping them cool, comfortable, and healthy during the hot summer months.

Are you thinking about adding a furry family member to your home? Adopting a shelter pet can be a rewarding experience for both you and your new companion. In this post, we’ll explore the many benefits of adopting a shelter pet, from improved health to increased happiness.

Companionship

One of the most obvious benefits of adopting a shelter pet is the companionship they provide. Whether you’re looking for a loyal dog to take on long walks or a cuddly cat to curl up with on the couch, there’s a shelter pet out there waiting for you. The bond a pet can provide also helps reduce feelings of loneliness and provides a sense routine in your daily life.

Improved Health

Adopting a shelter pet can even have positive effects on your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that pet owners have lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and reduced stress levels. Pets can also encourage physical activity, whether it’s playing with a frisky kitten or taking a dog for a walk and playing fetch. Additionally, pets can provide emotional support during difficult times, helping to reduce anxiety and depression.

Happiness

It’s no secret that pets can bring joy into our lives. Adopting a pet can increase happiness and satisfaction in both you and your new friend. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a wagging tail or a purring cat on your lap to brighten your day. Adopting a pet can also give you a sense of fulfillment knowing that you’ve given an animal in need a loving home. Pets can bring a sense of purpose and responsibility to a family.

Adoption Benefits

When you adopt a shelter pet, you’re not only gaining a companion, but you’re also helping to save a life. Many shelters are overcrowded and underfunded, which means that animals are at risk of being euthanized if they are not adopted. By adopting a shelter pet, you’re providing a loving home to an animal in need, and helping to reduce the number of homeless pets in your community.

Adopting a pet from the shelter can bring countless benefits to your life, including companionship, improved health, and increased happiness with an added sense of purpose. It’s also a rewarding experience to know that you’re giving an animal in need a second chance at life. If you’ve discussed with your family and have decided you are ready for the responsibility of a new pet, adoption is one option to consider when adding a new furry family member!

As the weather changes and seasons shift, many pet owners begin to notice changes in their furry friends’ behavior and health. Unfortunately, just like humans, pets can also suffer from seasonal allergies. Identifying the signs and symptoms of allergies in your canine companion is important, as it can help you determine when it’s time to seek veterinary care and how to treat your pet’s allergies.

What are Pet Seasonal Allergies?

Similar to people, pets develop allergic conditions when their immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, or mold. When your pet comes into contact with these allergens, their immune system produces an allergic response that triggers their symptoms.

Where pets and people differ with allergies is the symptoms they produce. While people get runny noses, itchy eyes and respiratory signs, pets typically have the following common symptoms:

• Itchy skin
• Scratching or rubbing at ears
• Licking or chewing at paws or skin

If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. Allergies are not the only think that can cause itching in dogs! Your vet will likely run diagnostic tests to determine if there are infections, parasites, or other causes of itch as these will require different treatments.

Treatment for Pet Seasonal Allergies

There are a variety of treatment options available for allergies in dogs and cats, depending on the severity of your pet’s symptoms. Your vet will be in the best position to recommend which ones are best for your situation. They may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Apoquel – medications that are used to treat allergic skin conditions in dogs. It works by inhibiting the production of certain molecules involved in the inflammatory response, which helps to reduce itching and other symptoms of allergic skin conditions.
• Immunotherapy – this medication works by targeting a molecule called interleukin-31 (IL-31), which is involved in the inflammatory response that causes itching and other symptoms of allergic skin conditions
• Antihistamines – while less effective in the treatment of pet allergies, these can sometimes help by blocking the release of histamines, which are chemicals that cause allergic reactions
• Corticosteroids – these can reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system’s response to allergens
• Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy – this involves exposing your pet to small doses of the allergen over time, in effort to build up their immunity to it
• Topical treatments – these can include medicated shampoos, creams, or sprays that can be used to help relieve itching and soothe irritated skin

Prevention of Pet Seasonal Allergies

While you may not be able to completely prevent your pet from developing seasonal allergies, there are some steps you can take to minimize their exposure to allergens. Some of these include:

• Keep your pet indoors on days with a high allergen counts
• Bathe and groom your pet regularly to remove pollen and other allergens from their fur
• Work with your veterinarian to ensure that your pet is on a quality parasite preventative plan as fleas and insect bites can cause allergic flares
• Vacuum and dust regularly to help keep your home clean and free from dust and to reduce the amount of allergens in your pets environment

Crate training is an effective way to train your dog and provide them with a safe and comfortable space of their own. They can go to their kennel when feeling stressed or anxious, and the enclosed space of a crate can prevent them from wandering the house and getting into things they shouldn’t.

1. Benefits of Crate Training

Crate training has several benefits for both you and your pup. A crate can provide your dog with a safe, secure place to relax, rest, and decompress, especially when you’re not home. It can help with housebreaking and prevent destructive behaviors, as your dog won’t be able to chew on furniture and other non-toy items in the home. Additionally, a crate can help your dog when traveling with your dog or during vet visits!

2. Choosing the Right Crate

When choosing a crate for your dog, consider their size and weight, as well as their personality and behavior. A crate should be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can use one area for sleeping and the other for potty purposes. Some dogs may prefer an open-wire crate, while others may feel more secure in an enclosed crate. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s sturdy and safe.

3. Introducing Your Dog to the Crate

Introduce your pup to the crate gradually and in a positive manner. Place the crate in a quiet area of your home and leave the door open, allowing your dog to explore and sniff around the crate. Once they have satisfied their curiosity, begin feeding them meals inside and give lots of treats and praise when they enter voluntarily. Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate until they are comfortable for longer periods when you must leave or if you plan to kennel them at bedtime. Choose a command to tell them it’s time to enter the crate and make sure other members of your household use the same command to be consistent.

4. Crate Training Do’s and Don’ts

There are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when crate training your dog. Do make the kennel a comfy and positive space for your dog. Do not use it as punishment or leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time. Make sure to provide enough exercise, stimulation, and attention outside of the crate daily. Never force your dog into the kennel or use it as a substitute for training or socialization.

Crate training can be a positive way to train your dog and provide them with a safe space. With patience and consistency, your dog can learn to love their crate and make it their very own cozy space.

Taking a road trip with your dog can be an exciting and memorable experience! Tails wagging, tongues rolling, laughter, and having your best friend by your side can make all the difference on a long car ride. However, it requires careful planning to ensure that both you and your pet have a safe and fun journey. Here are some tips and best practices for road-tripping with your dog.

1. Choose Dog-Friendly Destinations and Accommodations

When planning a trip out of town, it’s important to pick pet-safe and pet-friendly destinations and accommodations if you plan on bringing your furry friend. Research is key! Look for hotels, Airbnbs, or campsites that allow canines, and learn about some of the pet-friendly places and activities in that specific area. Many places have pet restrictions, so be sure to check out their policies before making the trek with your pup. If staying with family or friends, make sure they are aware your dog will be joining you and that they have the space and capacity to accommodate them.

2. Prep Your Pup for the Trip

Before hitting the road, try to gauge how comfortable your dog is with car rides. Do they get nervous? Shaking, whining, and drooling can be signs they are anxious. Take short rides with them to get them accustomed to being in the car for extended periods. If they’re a nervous rider, you can talk to your vet about safe anxiety remedies. Motion sickness may also be an issue, especially on extended car rides. Your vet can prescribe medication to help with car sickness.

Pack all their essentials in advance. Make a checklist with necessities such as food, water, bowls, leash/harness, medications, toys, treats, and a comfy bed or crate where they can sleep or decompress. Additionally, check with your vet that they are up-to-date on all vaccinations and have their collar on with an ID tag attached.

3. Guarantee a Safe and Comfy Ride

Make sure your dog is secure during the drive. Use a pet carrier or seatbelt harness to keep them in place and prevent them from moving around too much when on the road. The back seat is the safest place for your dog and be sure to not open the window to the point they could jump out. Even if your pup has ridden with his head out the window before, on long car rides pets can become anxious, and their behavior can change.

As far as comfort, make sure to take plenty of potty breaks along the way and let them stretch their legs. If your dog is an active breed, schedule out some time to stop by a park or running trail where you can get some of their energy out with a game of fetch or a walk. Double check you packed plenty of food and that they have access to plenty of fresh water.

Never, ever leave your pet alone in the car! The internal temperature of a car can rise and fall much faster than it does outside, and they’re at risk of theft if left alone.

4. Prepare for Emergencies

No matter how much planning you do to ensure the road trip is fun and safe for your dog, sometimes emergencies can happen. Be prepared with a pet first-aid kit and contact info for emergency veterinary clinics along your route. Keep a recent photo of Fido on hand in case they get lost.