Are you planning a road trip with your diabetic dog? Having the right gear and a plan keeps the stress out of traveling.
What to Pack
Packing for a diabetic dog reminds me of packing for my children — have everything you might need easily accessible just in case. I recommend you make a checklist of all your dog’s diabetic needs. You can keep it in Notes or a similar app on your phone. Check it each time you travel with your dog. Obvious things like insulin, syringes, and a blood glucose test kit should be at the top. If you are part of a couple or a family traveling with the dog, make these essential items one person’s responsibility, and everyone should double-check with that person to be sure you don’t leave without these things.
This is a lesson I had to learn through experience. Twice in the last 5 years Todd and I have had to scramble because we each thought the other one had gotten Brady’s insulin. Driving around to find insulin or driving home to get it was not what we wanted to be doing on our vacation. We didn’t ask each other on those occasions because we didn’t want to “be a nag”. Now we have an agreement that it is always ok to ask.
Carry the insulin in something insulated with an ice pack and wrap it in something so it is not directly in contact with the cold source. Insulin won’t do much good if it gets cooked in a hot car or frozen by the ice pack. Preserving the insulin potency is important for managing your dog’s diabetes while you are traveling.
Also, travel with snacks. Low blood sugars can sneak up on anyone, and in a moving car, it’s not fun dealing with a shaky dog. Pack some treats that keep your dog’s energy just right. Also, carry something sugary like honey or Karo syrup for emergencies. Store these within easy reach, in case your dog shows signs of low blood sugar.
A Safe Ride
Safety includes more than supplies. The iconic picture of your dog sitting shotgun with their head out the window might make a great social media post, but it’s not a safe way for them to ride. I hear people talk about how much their dog loves riding with their head out the window, which I’m sure is true. However, there is a reason we don’t allow our children to do that…even though they might enjoy it. It’s no safer for your dog than it is for you, your children, or your grandchildren. If I see you with your dog in the front seat, I’m not going to say anything. We all make our own choices, but in this setting, I am offering my opinion and my advice. I recommend you set your dog up for a comfortable, and safe ride with a pet seat belt or an anchored travel crate. Brady is small enough that we place his travel bed at my feet, similar to the way he rides when we fly. When he rides on my lap, we hook his harness into the safety belt.
Getting prepped for the road means peace of mind for all those extra miles. With your diabetic dog sorted and comfortable, you’re set to enjoy the ride and the adventure ahead.
Pit Stops and Maintaining Routine for Stability
When you’re cruising down the highway with your diabetic dog, pit stops are more than just bathroom breaks. Regular stops allow you to stick to your dog’s feeding and insulin schedule, which is a big deal for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. Planning is your best friend here. Map out possible stopping points where you can pull over for meals and a stretch. It’s all about getting those walks in and checking blood sugar levels without stress. Take your time and enjoy the journey. The chance to get out and stretch your legs is good for everyone. This is a good time to kick the tires and do a quick safety check on your vehicle and anything you’re towing.
Carefully monitor your dog’s energy level, and hydration during the trip. You want to keep their glucose levels in the easy zone, to avoid unnecessary drama. If things seem off, do a quick check and consult your vet.
Knowing nearby vet clinics along your route isn’t “inviting trouble”—it’s just smart. Take a few minutes and map out your route on Google Maps. Put a pin in emergency vets along the way. You never know when a surprise might pop up. Having a vet in your back pocket can save the day.
And keep your regular vet’s phone number in your emergency contact list. If you have concerns with your dog’s blood sugar you’re a quick call away from expert advice from someone who knows your dog. If you’re calling from your vacation to get your vet’s advice you probably don’t need the added stress of trying to find their contact information.
Camping Tips with a Diabetic Dog
Camping under the stars with your diabetic dog just takes a bit of extra prep. All the preparation you did for the car trip there will have you in good shape once you reach your destination. Continue to keep the insulin in the cooler and do what you need to keep your cold source cold.
Sticking to a feeding schedule might be a bit trickier out in nature, but it’s doable. Brady eats twice a day at 12-hour intervals. That keeps us free to explore during the day. You may need to make some adjustments to match their food intake with the extra energy they are using compared to lazy days at home. Be especially careful during high-energy hike days. With all that extra movement, glucose levels might wobble a bit. Regular checks help prevent surprises, allowing you to adjust food or insulin levels before there’s an issue. Feed your dog a bit more in the morning before a hike to keep their blood sugar from getting too low when you’re on a trail somewhere. And be sure to carry enough water for you and your dog, treats, and a fast sugar source. It’s all about keeping the adventure fun, and not fraught with worry.
Watch for signs of stress in your dog. A familiar blanket or toy, helps them relax and feel at home. Keeping things calm and familiar supports their overall well-being.
I’d love to hear about your adventures with your diabetic dog. Leave any comments or questions below. We are better together.