Road Tripping with Pets: My Journey from Dallas to Utah.
Road trips are an exciting way to explore new places, but adding two dogs to the mix becomes a whole new adventure! Recently, I embarked on an unforgettable road trip from Dallas to Utah with my two furry companions, and it was nothing short of a learning experience. From finding dog-friendly hotels to making frequent pit stops, here's a look at how I managed this pet-friendly journey—and the challenges I faced at some tourist spots.
Planning for the Dogs
Traveling with pets requires extra thought and preparation. Before we hit the road, I packed all the essentials: dog food, plenty of treats, toys to keep them entertained, and their favorite blankets to make the car feel like home. Leashes and harnesses were at the top of my list—especially since managing two dogs means staying in control in unfamiliar environments. I also stocked up on dog waste bags, collapsible water bowls, and a first-aid kit just for them because you never know what you’ll need on the road!
Frequent Rest Stops: A Must!
Dogs have their own travel needs, and rest stops are one of them. With two energetic pups, I had to plan plenty of stops along the way. Rest areas became our best friends, providing grassy patches where the dogs could stretch their legs and burn off some energy. These pit stops were essential not just for bathroom breaks but also for giving them a moment to reset; honestly, they helped me feel less tired! We found some surprisingly nice dog rest areas along the route, many of which had designated pet areas. These places made the drive more manageable and gave my dogs a chance to sniff out new surroundings—one of their favorite things to do! As much as I wanted to power through and get to Utah, I quickly learned that keeping the dogs comfortable meant making time for these stops.
Choosing Dog-Friendly Hotels
When it came to overnight stays, finding dog-friendly hotels was vital. Luckily, many hotels along the route welcomed pets, but I had to research in advance to ensure I found spots that weren’t just "pet-tolerant" but truly pet-friendly. The extra effort paid off when we checked into cozy rooms with enough space for the dogs to unwind after a long day on the road. Some hotels even offered dog beds, treats, and easy access to walking areas, a lifesaver after hours of driving.
On the Road with Two Dogs
Traveling with two dogs isn’t without its challenges. From managing leash tangles at rest stops to keeping them calm during the drive, there were moments when I had my hands full. I found that giving them chew toys during the drive helped keep them entertained, and having a set routine for when we stopped for walks and meals gave the trip some structure. Safety was also a priority. I made sure both dogs were securely harnessed during the drive, not only for their safety but also for mine. Having them harnessed gave me peace of mind and kept them from trying to jump into the front seat.
Navigating Tourist Areas and National Parks
One of the biggest challenges of the trip was visiting popular tourist spots and national parks, where pet restrictions are often in place. Many of the stunning trails I wanted to explore in Utah, such as those in Bryce National Park, didn’t allow dogs on the trails. This meant I had to make alternate plans or leave my dogs in the car for short periods of time. It was a balancing act—I scheduled our hikes early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperatures were more relaxed, ensuring the dogs were safe and comfortable while waiting in the car. It’s crucial to research pet policies at national parks and tourist sites ahead of time so you can adjust your plans accordingly. While many parks offer designated pet areas or short trails, others may require leaving your pets behind, which can be stressful if not planned out properly. For me, it meant enjoying some of the shorter, dog-friendly hikes and reserving the longer, more intense trails for future trips without the pups.
The Reward: Utah's Scenic Beauty
After days of driving through Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and finally arriving in Utah, the feeling of accomplishment was immense—not just for me, but for my dogs. The wide-open spaces and breathtaking scenery provided the perfect backdrop for the outdoor adventures we had been craving. The dogs loved exploring the accessible trails, and I appreciated how pet-friendly Utah’s environment made it easy for us to enjoy the journey together without too many restrictions. From the incredible views of red rock formations to the satisfaction of successfully road-tripping through five states with two dogs, this experience was everything I had hoped for. Sure, there were challenges, but the joy of having my pets by my side made every moment worthwhile.
Tips for Road Tripping with Dogs:
Plan Ahead: Ensure the route has pet-friendly hotels and rest areas, and research pet policies at tourist spots and national parks.
Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of food, treats, toys, leashes, and waste bags.
Take Frequent Breaks: Dogs need time to stretch, hydrate, and unwind.
Secure Them in the Car: Harnesses or pet seat belts are necessary for safety.
Stay Flexible: You may need to adjust your schedule based on your dogs' needs and restrictions at specific locations.
This road trip from Dallas to Utah was a personal adventure and an authentic bonding experience with my dogs. If you're considering a road trip with pets, remember that while it takes extra planning, the memories you'll make are worth every effort. Safe travels to all the pet lovers out there!
I’d love to hear from you! Have you ever taken a road trip with your pets or explored any of the states I traveled through? What tips or experiences would you share with fellow pet lovers hitting the road? Drop a comment below, and let’s chat about your favorite road trip memories, your go-to pet-friendly destinations, or any questions you might have about planning your next adventure with furry companions. Your insights could help inspire other travelers, so don’t be shy—join the conversation!
