For those of us whose dogs enjoy joining us in our vehicle of choice on the highways and byways of our country, we can go just about anywhere. Short rides, long rides, overnighters, visits to friends and family far away — for travel-happy dogs, it's not the length of the adventure, it's the adventure itself. Just as every time you come home is cause for celebration for your dog, so is seeing you give her the invitation to join you when you pick up the keys and head for the door. Dogs who are frequent travelers are as adept at settling themselves into their “seat” as we are — and often are settled before their owners, eager and ready to get going.

If yours is a dog who loves to come along with you, there are certain things you need to do to ensure her comfort and safety — as well as your own — on every trip, no matter how far you're going. So you don't forget anything, here's a handy list of what you'll need.

1. Some form of security

Allowing your dog to be loose in the car is like driving without your seat belt. Certainly there are plenty of times it's been done and nothing's happened — and in fact for years people drove without seat belts and dogs traveled in the open backs of pickup trucks — but those days are gone. The roads are more crowded, people tend to drive faster, there are more dis-tractions, and it's simply not possible to think that traveling without a seat belt is wise for any passenger — including your dog.

Fortunately, there are many options, from specially made seat belts for dogs that work in conjunction with human seat belts, to booster seats with safety harnesses for small dogs, to tried-and-true crates, which keep your dog confined. You may even want to use different systems for different trips.

2. A couple of old blankets or towels

Use one to cover the car's cushion where your dog will be sitting. It is so much easier to move it or bring it in and wash it than it is to try getting every dog hair off the seat before someone else needs to sit in that spot. It's handy to have a second old towel in the vehicle if you go to the park with your dog and she gets wet or muddy. If your dog travels in a crate, you'll want to put a towel or blanket in it to keep it soft and cozy for her.

A specially designed seat belt keeps this Cairn puppy safe in the back seat of a vehicle.

3. Water and a bowl

You'll feel terrible if you take your dog to the park, go on a great hike, then get back to the car and see your dog panting and exhausted and realize you don't have any water for her. Even sharing your water bottle won't satisfy her need for fresh water, and it'll only waste the water you need for yourself (not that you shouldn't try this if it's your only option). Even if outdoor exercise isn't in your travel plans, dogs need a constant source of fresh water, and it's critical you have it with you so you can offer it to her at regular intervals.

Thoroughly rinse a used gallon container and fill it with cold tap water or buy one filled with spring water. It's best to be able to have a supply of the water your dog is used to drinking to prevent any gastric upset. Whenever you need to, fill your dog's bowl with water from this container. Keep it as cold as possible by keeping it in the shade while you're parked or near the air conditioning while you're traveling. The best kind of bowl to have on the road is a collapsible bowl. It pops up and holds plenty of water when you need it, then crushes down for easy packing when you don't.

4. Poop picker-uppers

Make it a habit to have a plastic bag or newspaper in your hand when you let your dog out of the vehicle to relieve herself. It is your responsibility and obligation to clean up after your dog wherever you travel with her. Having something handy to wrap it up and throw it away in makes quick work of this distasteful (but mandatory) chore.

5. Records

No, not the old vinyl LPs, copies of your dog's health records. You may need these in case of emergency, and it's so much easier to have them available than to try to get them should you need them. You'll want a copy of your dog's immunization records to show what shots she's had and when (rabies is especially important), as well as information about any medications she may be on, your veterinarian's phone number, and an emergency backup number of someone to call should something happen to you.

6. A first-aid kit

Using a pencil-case-sized plastic container, fill it with gauze bandages, vet wrap (to secure a bandage), tweezers, antibiotic ointment, premoistened antiseptic wipes, a supply of your pet's regular medication, buffered aspirin, Mylanta, a pair of pantyhose for a make-shift muzzle, and anything else you think you might need. Label it as your dog's kit and stash it somewhere safe.

7. Extra collar, leash, and ID tag

Heaven forbid your dog's collar or leash should break or become lost while on the road. You will be thankful for the spare. Keep the information on the ID tag current (include your cell phone number), and stash these in a safe place as well.

8. Treats and toys

There's something about traveling that makes you hungry for snacks, so have something suitable on hand for your friend. She may love your extra French fries, but they may not agree with her. Healthy treats that won't make a mess are best. Some dogs love to chew while traveling, so an appropriate toy will keep her occupied.

9. Food

If your travel plans include staying overnight or longer, be sure to bring enough of your dog's regular food to last the trip. Changing foods — especially while traveling — can upset your dog's stomach or keep her from eating. Dogs tend to be excited while traveling and often won't eat normally, anyway. Don't resort to “spoiling” your dog with your restaurant leftovers; it's too risky. Mixing some healthy scraps, like lean cooked meats or plain rice, into her normal food is fine and may encourage her to eat if she's fussing, but don't overindulge.