If you'll be traveling with your dog -- either locally (out & about running errands), or far away (via an airplane ride or long car ride) -- then you need to take a few precautions. If you don't, then your dog could become separated from you and you'll be up a creek trying to scamper and locate him or her.

These things are simple, and they should be done now so you'll always be prepared in the event of an emergency.

There are a few things that I always have on me any time I'm out & about with my dog.

I take different things, depending on whether we're going for a walk vs going for a ride in the car.

Here's what we take...

Personally, I know that dogs (even big dogs) can live long, happy lives even if they eat their food at floor-level.

They do it in the wild. And they probably do it in 90% of all households.

My guess is I'm among the few who have purchased a raised dog food feeder for their dogs.

But here's why I did... and why I recommend that you do, too.

Every dog needs a dog tag.

Especially if your dog...

...goes out on walks with you
...goes for rides in the car with you
...is left to play in the backyard alone
...is traveling via airplane

Ideally, every dog should wear identifying information on a dog tag attached to their collar at all times. Our dogs do.

We found the most reasonably priced dog tags were from this company: TagsForPets.com (a.k.a. American Pet Classics)

To ensure that your next trip with your dog goes smoothly, here are 10 things you'll want to do FIRST.

These travel tips apply whether you're traveling with your dog via car or via airplane.

Happy travels!

The Dog-e-Tag is a digital dog tag that is worn just like a metal tag.

Each year, the list of most popular dog names changes ever so slightly.

For example, Max and Molly always tend to hover around the top.

Here are the remaining Top 10 Dog Names...