A tongue lolling out the passenger window is the image of canine contentment. But not all pups get the picture. Car rides can be scary if they lead only to the kennel or vet.

So, start off taking your dog on short trips that end in praise and a treat. Here are a few tips for your pet’s travels: Avoid feeding before rides to help prevent motion sickness. Make sure pets ride inside rather than in the bed of a camper or pickup. Keep your pal’s head inside the vehicle to avoid eye injuries. Also, small pets are safest riding in a carrier.

Stop for frequent potty and water breaks, always putting a leash on your pet before opening the door. Most importantly, never leave an animal in a parked vehicle in warm weather, no matter how briefly. Even with the windows cracked, the inside temperature can soar to life-threatening levels in minutes.

Keep it safe, keep it fun, and keep on truckin’.