Routine, safety key when taking Fido on a trip

With more and more furry family members along for the ride, Consumer Reports reminds humans to create a safe and comfortable environment for pets when taking them on a trip.

Lauren Fidge, mom of 1-year-old puppy Mabel, started early to prepare her for a six-hour road trip.

"We started doing small trips around town, going to our neighbors' home in the car, that sort of thing," Fidge said.

Trainer Holly Santana has more, good advice.

"You should have consistency. So you want the same food. You want the same schedule. And so if they eat at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., keep it 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.," she said.

Santana also suggests bringing a towel or bed with the scent from home, keeping the car cool and taking breaks at least every three hours. Make sure you bring doggie bags, a leash, collar and ID tags with your dog's name and your contact information. Cleaning supplies are useful just in case!

Protection, packing, planning make road trips roll more smoothly

Finally, don't forget about safety!

"Pets can act as projectiles if they are not secured," said Jen Stockburger, Consumer Reports Auto Expert.

In crash tests with "dummy dogs," the Center for Pet Safety and Subaru found the most secure restraints to be the Sleepypod Air carrier for about $160, the Gunner Kennels G1 Intermediate crate for $500 and the Sleepypod Clickit Sport harness for between $65 and $75.