What to do before long trips

Long car trips with your dog don't have to be stressful — but they do require preparation. What you do in the 24 hours before departure can determine whether your dog arrives calm and comfortable or sick and anxious.

If your dog has a history of motion sickness, this checklist is especially critical.

24 hours before: Set the foundation

Adjust meals

Feed your dog a normal-sized meal the evening before travel. Avoid new foods, rich treats, or anything that could upset their stomach. A stable gut going into the trip matters more than most owners realize.

Exercise thoroughly

Give your dog a longer-than-usual walk or play session. A tired dog is a calmer traveler. Aim for at least 30 to 45 minutes of moderate activity — enough to take the edge off without exhausting them.

Do a practice run

If your dog hasn't been in the car recently, take a short 10-minute drive the day before. This reactivates their car familiarity and lets you assess how they're feeling. If they show signs of travel anxiety, consider starting the desensitization protocol.

2-3 hours before: Final prep

Last meal timing

Feed a light meal 2 to 3 hours before departure — never right before. An empty stomach is better than a full one when it comes to motion sickness, but completely fasting can increase anxiety.

Water access

Allow normal water access up until departure. Proper hydration helps support against nausea, so don't restrict water thinking it will prevent vomiting.

Potty break

A good walk with a full bathroom break reduces restlessness in the car. Plan for this even if you're running behind schedule — it saves time later.

30 minutes before: The protocol

This is the critical window. The 30 minutes before departure determine how the first hour of driving goes.

• Administer NausX — give as directed based on your dog's weight, 30 minutes before departure
• Set up the car — cool temperature, window cracked, familiar blanket placed
• Stay calm — your energy sets the tone. Avoid rushing, loud voices, or anxious behavior
• Load your dog last — get everything packed first so there's no waiting-in-the-car time

The packing checklist

Keep a dedicated dog travel kit packed and ready. Here's what to include:

• NausX — enough for the trip plus return travel
• Collapsible water bowl — for rest stop hydration
• Poop bags — more than you think you need
• Favorite blanket or toy — comfort items reduce anxiety
• Paper towels and cleaner — in case of accidents
• Travel harness — crash-tested and properly fitted
• Dog's medical info — vet number, medication list, vaccination records

During the drive: Rest stop rhythm

Plan stops every 2 to 3 hours. At each stop:

• Let your dog walk and relieve themselves for at least 10 minutes
• Offer fresh water
• Allow them to stretch and sniff — this resets their nervous system
• Re-administer NausX if recommended for the duration of your trip

Skipping rest stops to "make better time" is the most common mistake on long drives with dogs. Those 10-minute breaks prevent the nausea cascade that can ruin the entire remaining drive.

After you arrive, follow the post-travel gut reset protocol to help your dog recover and prepare for the return trip.

Preparation isn't about perfection — it's about removing the triggers that cause problems. A well-prepared trip sets your dog up for success from the first mile. See all proven car sickness remedies for the complete toolkit.