Assuming that you will be driving there are a few procedures you will have to do before you leave and give yourself plenty of time to accomplish this. Take your dog on very short runs at first. It would be perfect to start this while they are puppies but if they're not puppies it's not too late. At first hold your dog in your lap to give him the confidence and security that he needs. It is very important that you not let him roam around the car while the car is moving, this is for your own security; keep him away from the driver. Don't ever let your dog jump into the car without your permission, once he gets use to this it will certainly come in handy on longer trips. The short trips will also get him use to the movement of the car and help prevent motion sickness on longer drives. Some dogs have problems with car sickness and some of them take to a car like a duck to water without any problems at all.
When you get to your destination whether it is the grocery store or the malls have your dog on a leash before you let him out. Never let them run without your supervision no matter how well you think they behaved. You don't know how your dog will react in strange surroundings so it's better to leash them so you're in complete control. When you take the long trip don't leave your dog alone in a strange hotel room people go in to clean and may accidently let them out. Another important thing is to have their name tag on them with your name, home phone number and address just in case he gets lost.
When you are in veterinary career and you start out on your trip take along his favorite food, you may want to take some moist food as this is easier to serve when you are traveling and they don't require a fridge to keep them fresh. The more you take that is familiar to your dog the less stressed he will get on the trip and will soon fall into the routine of traveling. Try and take some of his favorite play toys and a blanket. You can have a small carrying case for all his items and keep it close to you on the trip. It will make a better trip for everyone.
If you are planning on leaving the state you're in and entering another one then make sure you have all the dogs' papers with you. You can apply for an up to date travel documents from the place you're planning to visit. You also need to take all his medical records and proof of his most recent shots. If you're leaving the states you will be required to have a letter from your vet to get your dog back in. We made this mistake a few years ago and were very lucky that customs understood and did let us back in with our dog.
So there you have it, with a little practice and a few short car rides your doggie should be ready for the big trip. I bet if he could talk he would agree that it is much better traveling with you than being left home alone or with strangers so happy traveling and enjoy!
