Rest-Stop Etiquette
If you're driving for any major length of distance, safety experts say you'll stay more alert if you stop at least once an hour to get out of your vehicle and walk around. Not only is it good for driver safety, it's a perfect time to take your dog out and walk him around as well.
If there are other dogs at the rest stop, try not to intrude on their space. They're there to do business, too, and taking your dog up to them will distract them from their job. Also, you have no way of knowing how friendly the other dogs are so don't tempt fate by getting too close!
Pet areas at many highway rest stops are littered with dog poop that irresponsible dog owners didn't bother picking up. Don't add to that disgusting problem – always clean up after your dog when he defecates.
Special bags are made for this purpose, and some rest areas and parks provide them from free baggy dispensers. However, poop bags probably won't be provided at most of the places you stop so always bring a few bags with you.
You don't need special poop bags – any plastic bag big enough to slip over your hand will do. To clean up after your dog using a bag put your hand inside the empty bag, pick up the poop using the bag like a glove, turn the bag inside out to surround the poop and tie it off. Then dispose of the bag in a trash can. If a trash can isn't available, take the bagged poop with you and dispose of it when you find one.
Motor Homes & Boats
If you'll be taking your dog on trips in your motor home or boat, these are special potty-time considerations. Each RV park or harbor has its own pet-related rules. Often, they're posted where visitors can easily read them. If you don't see the local dog rules posted, ask the person who checks you in when you pay your camping or slip fee.
If your dog is small, you might consider litter box training him. When your dog needs to relieve himself, he'll be able to use the litter box and you won't need to interrupt your trip. This can make it much easier on the dog and on you.
Low-sided plastic storage boxes that are made for sliding under beds make good travel litter boxes. They're a good size for most small dogs and you can put the lid on it between uses. This will keep the litter from spilling and will also prevent any stinky odor from drifting. Your dog can learn to tell you when he needs to use the litter box, just as he asks you to open the door at home when he needs to potty.
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