How to Protect Your Car on Road Trips with Your Pet

by Britt

Published: June 24th, 2025

Photo credit: Viktorya Telminova / Shutterstock.com

Travelling with your pet is a fun experience, sharing adventures and building that special bond with one another on the open road. However, as responsible pet parents, we also acknowledge the challenges of including our best friend in our travel plans: concerns regarding car cleanliness, lingering smells, and potential damage to the vehicle’s interior.

In this guide, I’m going to share practical and actionable tips to help you enjoy a comfortable journey with your pet while also protecting your vehicle from my own experiences hitting the road with my furry crew by my side. You can have your cake and eat it, too!

Pre-Trip Pet Preparation: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Before heading out on the road, there are steps you can take to lay the groundwork for a comfortable, enjoyable trip. These are simple considerations that can make a world of difference in keeping your cat spotless and damage-free.

Make Time for a Grooming Session

Start your preparations with a thorough grooming session. Taking the time to brush and deshed your pet before loading them into the car will help effectively reduce the amount of loose fur that will inevitably end up in your vehicle. Tools like deshedding brushes or grooming gloves are both helpful during this process.

Beyond shedding, nail trimming is another critical consideration. Trimmed nails prevent unwanted scratches on your car upholstery, windows, and interior plastics. If you have a dog who is uncomfortable with having their nails trimmed, consider introducing a scratch board to help keep their nails short and well-maintained.

Finally, make a habit of cleaning your pet’s paws each time before they enter the car, especially after any outdoor play or potty breaks, to minimize tracked-in dirt, mud, and debris.

Plan for Ideal Mealtime Schedules

Approaching your pet’s eating and drinking routine before a trip strategically can help prevent accidents and motion sickness.

While keeping your pet hydrated should always be a top priority, consider limiting water intake slightly an hour or two before any travels to reduce the frequency of needing to go to the bathroom. This doesn’t mean you’ll be completely withholding water. Instead, pack a pet-friendly water bottle and offer small drinks each time you stop to prevent dehydration while still avoiding that troublesome, overly full bladder.

Similarly, avoid giving your pet a big meal right before travel. Instead, consider offering a light, easy-to-digest meal well in advance, giving them time to digest and go to the bathroom before hitting the road. Not only does this help prevent accidents, but it can also go far in avoiding upset stomachs and potential vomiting.

Don’t Forget the Last-Minute Potty Break

Of course, beyond all these preparations, the all-important bathroom break just before you leave is non-negotiable. This quick stop will help drastically reduce the risk of in-car accidents. It’s also a good chance to watch for any signs of nausea, giving you a much-needed red flag that something might be up.

Pack All the Essentials

Don’t forget to pack a dedicated pet travel bag with all the essential items you will need for your pet throughout your travels. This includes a water bottle, a portable bowl, their favorite blanket or bed, a few favorite treats, and a favorite, comforting toy (especially if they are nervous on car rides). You should also pack the supplies you may need for a quick clean on the road in case you do run into trouble, like waste bags, paper towels, or cleaning wipes.

Keeping Your Pet Contained During Your Travels

Proper containment when travelling with your pet is essential for their safety (just as we have to wear seatbelts), but it also helps to keep your vehicle clean. Limiting your pet’s movement to a designated pet area will significantly reduce the spread of hair, dirt, and the potential for scratches or other damage to your car’s interior. Plus, it allows you to focus on keeping everything they need within their reach throughout their trip, making it more comfortable and less stressful for everyone.

Crates and Carriers

Using a crate or carrier for our pet offers many benefits. They provide a secure, comfortable “den” for your pet while also keeping any pet mess contained. You’ll find many types available, including hard-sided, soft-sided, and wire crates, each suitable for pets of different sizes and various vehicle layouts. When choosing a crate, take time to ensure that it’s correctly sized for your pet’s comfort and safety. Always secure it properly within your vehicle before you travel, using seatbelts or cargo anchors to prevent shifting during travel. For added comfort, and to absorb any potential accidents, keeping them contained, consider lining the crate with absorbent pads or soft blankets.

Pet Seatbelts and Harnesses

For larger pets and those who prefer to sit directly on the car seat, crash-tested harnesses and seatbelts are a great solution. I highly recommend prioritizing crash-tested products to guarantee your beloved pet is going to be safe in the event of an accident. While there is no universal testing or regulation of the “crash-tested” label, a great resource to help in choosing your gear is the Center for Pet Safety certification program. When fitting, make sure the harness is snug and the seat belt connection is securely connected as directed on the product packaging.

Backseat Barriers, Car Seats, or Hammocks

While backseat barriers, car seats, and hammocks aren’t going to protect your pet in an accident, combined with a crash-tested harness and seatbelt, they are a great option for keeping that pet mess contained. These devices work to create a defined space for your pet, trapping loose fur, dirt, and other debris that might otherwise end up on your car’s floor or upholstery.

Photo credit: New Africa / Shutterstock.com

Managing Pet Mess & Accidents on the Go

Even with the most careful and meticulous pre-trip preparation, unexpected messes and accidents can occur when traveling with pets. Being prepared with on-the-go solutions for whatever life throws your way will ensure that these minor setbacks don’t put a damper on your otherwise fun travels.

The Emergency Cleanup Kit

A well-stocked emergency cleanup kit is one of the most helpful things you can pack to ensure you’re prepared to manage any unexpected incidents along the way. This includes all the supplies you need to quickly and easily clean up messes, allowing you to take care of your vehicle and get back on your way. An emergency cleanup kit should include:

Paper towels, wet wipes, and an enzymatic cleaner spray for immediate spill and stain treatment
Plastic bags for waste disposal or keeping soiled items safely contained
A small brush and dustpan or a portable handheld vacuum for quick hair and debris removal
Absorbent pads for soaking up larger spills or accidents

We recently started using the Chemical Guys Furbidden Pet Stain Remover and Ghosted Pet Odor Eliminator in our SUV and have been impressed with how well they tackle any messes we may encounter. While we haven’t had to deal with any bathroom mishaps or vomit, we do travel to dog beaches quite frequently, leaving us needing to address that all-too-familiar wet dog smell. We also keep a pack of Earth Rated Pet Wipes close at hand every trip to take care of muddy paws.

Dealing with Motion Sickness

Some pets will, unfortunately, experience motion sickness during car travel. Before heading out on the road, take the time to familiarize yourself with the most common symptoms, including:

Drooling
Restlessness
Lip-licking
Yawning
Vomiting

If your pet is prone to motion sickness, contact your veterinarian before traveling to discuss preventative measures. They may recommend anti-nausea medication to keep your pet comfortable. Should your pet have an incident, your clean kit will help you quickly contain and clean the mess, minimizing any lingering odors or stains.

Mess-Free Feeding and Hydration

Keeping your pet hydrated and fed on the road without creating a mess requires a bit of planning and preparation. Opt for spill-proof water bowls specifically designed to minimize splashes and contain water, even during bumps or turns. We have had good luck with the Kurgo Splash Free Wander Water Bowl.

The best practice for mealtimes is to feed your pet during stops outside the car, or at least in a designated, easily cleaned spot. This will help keep your vehicle clean by preventing food spills or crumbs from becoming a problem. If you do need to feed your pet in a moving vehicle, consider using a mat with raised edges, like the Neater Pet Brands Neater Mat.

Post-Trip Cleanup & Maintenance

Your focus on protecting your vehicle doesn’t end when you pull in the driveway. You will also need to do a thorough post-trip cleanup to restore it to its pre-trip condition and eliminate any lingering signs of your travels.

Initial Cleanup

Begin by addressing all the most visible signs of your pet travel. To do this, start by vacuuming, ensuring you cover all carpets, upholstery, and hard-to-reach crevices to remove every last bit of fur, dirt, and crumbs. Following this, wipe down all hard surfaces with an interior cleaning wipe, paying special attention to door panels, windows, and dashboards where nose prints or drool may have collected.

Deep Cleaning for Lingering Odor and Stains

A deeper cleaning approach is necessary for any persistent odors or stubborn stains. Enzymatic cleaners are highly effective for breaking down organic matter that causes odors and stains, like urine, feces, and vomit. This makes them invaluable for pet-related messes. Complement this with a dedicated fabric or upholstery cleaner for spot treatment or general cleaning of your car’s soft surfaces. After cleaning, air out the vehicle by safely leaving the windows open for a period to help with ventilation and dissipate any remaining smells.

Regular Maintenance

Beyond your intensive post-trip cleanups, you should consider routine car maintenance. This includes after any car trip with your pet, regardless of length. Yes, even just that quick trip to your local pet store. This is key to preventing the buildup of hair, dirt, and odors over time. Consistent small efforts will keep your car fresh and ready for the next adventure.

Enjoy the Journey While Protecting Your Investment

By prioritizing careful preparation, considering the best ways to keep your pet contained while on the road, and using smart protective measures, you’re not just safeguarding your vehicle; you’re setting the stage for many more enjoyable and stress-free adventures with your beloved pet. A well-prepared and well-stocked car means more comfortable travels for you and your best friend, as well as a better-preserved investment for you. It’s a win-win!

Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 3 cats – Pippen, Jinx, and Theia. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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Dogs Are Helping People Deal With Stress More Than Expected

If you’ve ever found your shoulders unknotted simply by petting your dog after a long day, you’re definitely not alone. But now science at the University of Denver is showing just how powerful that furry comfort can be.A new study led by the University of Denver’s Institute for Human‑Animal Connection (IHAC) has uncovered something pretty remarkable: pet dogs don’t just reduce stress, they actually help regulate it in a more nuanced, biological way than researchers expected.Researchers recruited 44 dog‑owning participants and randomly assigned them to two groups. One group brought their dog to a mildly stressful lab test, and the other group faced it alone. The test involved giving a job‑interview style speech and doing mental math under pressure.During the study, researchers measured heart rate, salivary cortisol, and alpha‑amylase (a stress enzyme), and had participants rate their anxiety. What they found was pretty fascinating! Although both groups saw increases in stress, those with their dogs present had significantly lower spikes in heart rate and cortisol. Heart rate rose about 14.6% with dogs present vs. 26.7% without. And cortisol responses were more than 50% lower when a dog was by your side.What surprised researchers is that salivary alpha‑amylase actually only rose in the dog group, by 97.6%, suggesting not just suppression of stress, but a healthy, balanced response. Participants in the dog‑present group sometimes ended with cortisol levels even lower after recovery than when they first arrived. A sign of faster stress recovery.According to IHAC communicators, “dogs may be able to support a balanced, intermediate stress response. Instead of just reducing the stress response, a dog can actually help to maintain regular stress levels”.Although participants didn’t report significantly less anxiety in self‑ratings (that metric was about the same whether the dog was present or not), the physiological signs tell a different story. It turns out our heart, our hormones, and even specific enzymes respond better when our dogs are with us, even if our minds think otherwise.This study breaks ground by measuring several biological systems at once, something previous research lacked. IHAC hopes to expand this work, exploring whether dogs might help with chronic stress, anxiety disorders, or recovery from trauma. In fact, upcoming work from DU researchers will look at service dogs with veterans dealing with PTSD, mapping long‑term hormone changes and even protein biomarkers over months of pairing.The goal is ambitious yet relatable: uncovering how dogs, our partners, confidants, and fluffy overlords shape our bodies’ stress responses, not just our minds.So what’s the practical takeaway? Even on hectic days, carve out a few minutes to connect with your dog. Sit on the couch together, take a short walk, or let them curl up beside you while you breathe deeply. It’s not just sweet, it might actually cut your cortisol and keep your heart rate steadier.And if someone ever downplays your pup’s value beyond fetch games or cuteness? Share the facts. Dogs are scientifically shown to be better at regulating stress than parents, partners, or close friends in some respects, and just as helpful on our toughest days.So next time someone says your dog is just a pet, smile knowingly. You're not only living with a furry companion, you might be living with your best therapist yet.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What to Do When Your Dog Stops Eating

It’s a moment that triggers panic for nearly any pet parent who has been there before: you place your dog’s favorite food in their bowl, the one that always triggers excitement and enthusiastic tail wags, only to have them turn away in apart disinterest. Is something wrong? Should you be worried?While it’s true that as our furry family members enter their senior years, a change in appetite can sometimes happen due to the impact of aging, a loss of appetite in a healthy adult dog is a big red flag.If you’re currently facing this fear, the first step in helping your best friend get back to their happy, food-loving self is to identify the potential reason for this sudden change. This post will explore the various possibilities, outline the importance of keeping your eyes open for warning signs, and help you identify when seeking professional veterinary help is the best choice.What to Look for When Your Dog’s Appetite VanishesWhen your dog’s normally unwavering appetite suddenly disappears, you must become a keen observer – a true detective of your dog’s behavior. Every little detail could be a clue in unraveling the mystery of their newfound food aversion. There’s no one better for the job. After all, you know your dog best!Here are a few warning signs that could help you pinpoint the root of the problem:Energy Levels: Is your dog bouncing around with their usual enthusiasm, eager for walks or to play with their favorite toys? Or have they become unusually quiet and lethargic, sleeping more than usual and showing no interest in activities they typically enjoy?Behavior: Carefully observe their behavior and any uncharacteristic changes. Are they withdrawing, hiding, or seeming less engaged with your family? Are they displaying signs of anxiety, pacing, panting excessively, whining, or being unusually restless?Bodily Functions: Keep an eye on your dog’s drinking and bathroom habits. Are they drinking water normally, or have you noticed a decrease or increase in water consumption? Monitor their bathroom habits, noting the frequency, consistency, and any changes in their stool or urine.Physical Signs: Look for any signs of pain or discomfort. Are they whining, limping, guarding a specific area of their body, or reacting sensitively to touch? Have you noticed any vomiting, diarrhea, or coughing?Recent Lifestyle Changes: Have you had any recent changes that impact your dog’s environment, daily routine, or diet? Have you moved homes, gone on a trip (even if they stayed beyond), changed their feeding schedule, added a new pet to the home, had a family member move out (like a child going to college), or even introduced new food or treats?Remember, even the details that seem the most insignificant may provide valuable insights for your veterinarian. Write down your observations – I recommend starting a journal. Not only will this help you remember everything, but it will also make it easier to spot trends over a period of time. You are your dog’s best advocate, and being able to provide this insider information will be an essential piece of the puzzle.Potential Non-Medical Reasons for a Change in Appetite Sometimes, a sudden disinterest in food isn’t a red flag of an underlying medical problem, but rather, it is the result of factors related to their environment, their food itself, or even their behavior. Here are some potential non-medical reasons why your healthy adult dog might turn up their nose at their meals. Changes in Environment and Routine Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. Any disruption to their familiar world can sometimes lead to a temporary loss of appetite. A new environment, such as moving to a new home or a temporary stay at a boarding facility or a friend’s house, can be a significant source of stress and anxiety for some dogs. This stress can manifest as a change in appetite, causing them to skip a meal or two until they feel more secure in their space. Similarly, changes in your dog’s daily routine, even seemingly small ones like a late mealtime or missed walk, can throw off their internal clock and impact their eating habits. Don’t overlook the potential for external sources of stress and anxiety in their home environment. This often comes in the form of loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, but it can also be something as simple as tension and arguments within the household. Food-Related Factors While not the most common causes, there is a chance that your dog’s appetite issues lie directly with the food itself. Like us, dogs can become bored with their meals. Even if you’re feeding them the best high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet, eating the same thing day after day can become monotonous for some dogs. As the food becomes less exciting, they tend to eat less. If you notice your dog turning their nose up at an otherwise loved food, you should always check the expiration date. Spoiled food, even just slightly past its prime, can be unappetizing and even potentially harmful. A simple change in food, even if you’re switching your dog to a high-quality option, can initially cause some appetite issues. Changing food too quickly can trigger digestive upset, discouraging your pup from eating. The best way to do this is to plan for a slow and gradual introduction of the new food, mixing it with the old and slowly phasing that “old faithful” out. Check out the area where your dog is eating. A dirty food bowl or messy area leading up to the dish can be off-putting, as can a noisy or high-traffic feeding space. If your dog doesn’t feel comfortable and secure, their nerves can get the best of them. Consider setting up a clean, clutter-free, and quiet space for your dog to enjoy their mealtime. Finally, don’t overlook the treats and special snacks you give your dog throughout the day. If your dog receives a significant number of treats or table scraps, they might simply not be hungry when the time comes for a regular meal. These extra calories can quickly fill them up and make their standard food seem less appealing, but they aren’t going to meet their nutritional needs. Behavioral Reasons Sometimes, a dog’s refusal to eat can result from learned behaviors or their individual personality. Some clever dogs will quickly learn that refusing to eat will gain extra attention from their worried humans. The fussing, coaxing, and offering of tempting treats to motivate their appetite can inadvertently reinforce this behavior. In households with multiple dogs, subtle power dynamics can sometimes play a role in deciding who eats and when. A more dominant dog may actually prevent a less confident pup from eating freely, requiring controlled mealtimes. Lastly, like humans, dogs have their preferences. Your dog may simply be a fussy eater. They might have pickier, more discerning palates and be easily turned off by certain textures or smells, even if the food is fully balanced and nutritious.

Do Fish Recognize Their Owners?

When we think of pets that recognize their owners, dogs wagging their tails or cats rubbing against our legs usually come to mind. But what about fish? Can a creature with no facial expressions or vocal communication really recognize its human caretaker?Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Many fish owners believe their aquatic pets do recognize them - and recent science is starting to back that up. Fish are more intelligent and observant than they’re often given credit for.It All Starts with VisionFish rely heavily on their vision to survive. In the wild, they use their eyes to locate food, spot predators, and navigate complex environments. In captivity, this sharp vision allows them to recognize patterns and movement outside the tank.Some species are especially gifted in this area. For example, studies have shown that cichlids and archerfish can recognize human faces. In one experiment, archerfish were trained to spit water at images of specific faces on a screen. Even when shown similar-looking faces, they were able to correctly pick out the familiar one most of the time. This suggests that fish can tell people apart - and remember those they see regularly.Routine and RecognitionFish are also capable of learning routines and making associations. If you feed your fish at the same time every day, or tap the tank before feeding, they’ll likely start associating your presence or certain sounds with food. Over time, your fish may begin to swim excitedly to the surface when you approach. If you’re their sole caregiver, they may recognize your movements, your voice, or even your silhouette.

Why Is My Cat Avoiding the Litter Box?

Cats are known for their strong instinct for cleanliness, and most will use a litter box without issue. So, when your feline companion suddenly starts avoiding it, this can be a sign of an underlying problem. The reasons can range from medical conditions to environmental stressors, and identifying the cause is crucial for resolving the issue. Here are some of the most common reasons why your cat is avoiding the litter box.#1 Medical IssuesOne of the first things to consider is a medical condition. Cats experiencing pain or discomfort while urinating may associate the litter box with that discomfort and avoid it altogether. Common health issues that can lead to litter box avoidance include:Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Can cause pain, frequent urination, and accidents outside the box.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) – Often leads to straining, frequent attempts to urinate, and licking of the genital area.Bladder Stones or Kidney Disease – May cause increased urination or discomfort.Diabetes – Can result in excessive thirst and urination, sometimes overwhelming the litter box.If your cat is exhibiting signs of discomfort, straining, or unusual urination patterns, a vet visit is essential to rule out these conditions.#2 Hygiene and Litter Box MaintenanceCats are fastidious creatures, and a dirty litter box can be a major deterrent. If the box isn’t cleaned regularly, your cat may seek alternative places to relieve itself. To maintain a clean and inviting space:Scoop the litter box daily to remove waste.Perform a full clean weekly, replacing old litter with fresh, unscented litter.Use an appropriately sized litter box—cats generally prefer a box at least 1.5 times their body length.Place the box in a quiet, low-traffic area where your cat feels safe.

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