Pet Pointers: Doggy Road Trip Tips

This summer, 88 percent of travelers will go by car instead of by jet plane — with many Americans opting for a road trip so that they bring along their four-legged and furry family members.

But what can you do to make sure that Fido has a happy, healthy, and tail-wagging good time?

The in-house canine behavioral experts from Milk-Bone and Milo's Kitchen — two popular All-American dog treat brands — are sharing their surprising Top 5 tips for the 4th of July travel season:

*** MILK-BONE & MILO'S KITCHEN TOP 5 TIPS FOR AN ALL-AMERICAN DOGGY ROAD TRIP ***

>>  DOGGY ROAD TRIP TIP #1:  TAKE A JOY RIDE
Was your pup's last 'road trip' a trip to the vet?  If so, chances are he’s going to get nervous when he hears your keys jingling.  Before your trip, take him on a short ride to the park to make the car a place where fun things happen, too.

>>  DOGGY ROAD TRIP TIP #2:  MAKE CRATE TIME 'TREAT TIME'
Make your dog's travel crate a safe and happy place.  Do a "test crating" and reward Fido with lots of his favorite treats, like those from Milk-Bone or Milo's Kitchen.  Soon, he'll be drooling every time he crawls inside.

>>  DOGGY ROAD TRIP TIP #3:  PAMPER YOUR PUP
Turn your car into a doggie day spa!  Just like humans, pups feel most peaceful in a calming environment, so give your dog a back rub and play soothing music while you're driving down the road.

>>  DOGGY ROAD TRIP TIP #4:  BRING 'HOME' WITH YOU
Because dogs like familiarity, bring along their snuggly blankets and favorite toys.  On arrival at your destination, set up your dog's crate and food bowls, stick to a normal feeding schedule, and keep your walking routine.

>>  DOGGY ROAD TRIP TIP #5:  SPOIL THEM SILLY
While on a trip, it's even more important to reward your pup for good behavior. Treats build positive associations with new sights and sounds, and also remind your furry family members that you love them and are having fun!