What's the best disaster plan for multiple dogs who don't get along?

That sounds like a lot of fun for Sara and the rest of the crew!!! I would definitely recommend to get all the dogs use to each other well before the trip, that way if there are some aggression issues or other problems, these can be addressed right away. It would be a good idea to get all the dogs use to long car rides. If some of the dogs don't travel well, you can talk to their vet about sedatives/anti-anxiety medications. Also you will need to make sure that all pets are up to date on vaccines as well as flea AND heartworm prevention. I recommend to use a more complete heartworm prevention such as Interceptor or even a combo product like Trifexis. These products prevent heartworm and also have activity against 3 intestinal worms. This is smart since the dogs will be traveling and thus have higher exposure. Lastly, you should carry with you the vaccine records and to be safe, get an interstate health certificate on each one. Best to work out any kinks well in advance and prepare for any legal situations. Have fun and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I recommend that you keep them separate until you are sure they can get along when you are gone. Separating by a baby gate or keeping them on leashes would be fine. If they fight over toys, then all toys should be removed from the area. You also. Red to keep a close eye on them around feeding time. Here is a helpful article https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/behavior/how-introduce-dogs

You could try getting Sissy acclimated to a crate inside or a comfortable bed. Also, feeding Sissy all of her meals inside will help get her more comfortable with being indoors. Making use of an Adaptil collar for both Sissy and your Shih tzu may help resolve some of the anxiety they may be experiencing. These articles may be of interest to you: https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-select-the-best-crate-for-your-dog/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-crate-train-your-puppy-or-older-dog/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/7-ways-to-make-sure-your-dog-feels-safe-in-your-home/ Thanks for using PetCoach and best wishes to you and your dogs!

I would consider having Loki meet the other dogs on neutral ground several times prior to moving in (or as often as possible) so that they can see eachother without feeling that space is invaded. I think having Loki on a light leash is a good idea as well initially in case things do escalate. It is important to keep the dogs separate when feeding because this is often a moment when confrontation can occur. Also be sure each dog has it's own bed that it can retire to without competition from another dog. It may be helpful if Loki is a bit anxious to gate part of the house if the other dogs tend to be in his face all the time, when you are not home especially, so he doesn't feel threatened. You can read more information on ideas for introducing new dogs at https://drsophiayin.com/blog/entry/a-new-friend-for-fido/

Gradually increase the amount of time they are physically together as long as there is no aggression. Correct any negative behavior immediately. Consider a pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, to decrease any anxiety or aggression. Provide additional bowls, toys and blankets to prevent resource protection. If the behavior persists, consider a consultation with a certified veterinary behaviorist.

This behavior is likely to improve with time. Take them on leash walks together frequently (twice a day if at all possible). Feed them in separate rooms, as this is the time he is most likely to actually snap at her. If his behavior is not improving, consider keeping a [basket muzzle](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/baskerville-ultra-black-muzzle-for-dogs) on him when they are inside so he can't hurt her. Also, if his behavior isn't getting better, ask your vet for a referral to a trainer or behaviorist who can help you. Thanks for asking PetCoach!

There is no medication which would be recommended to sedate them whilst you are away - all sedatives and tranquilisers come with risks. Crating them individually would be the safest option. There is no way for us to predict the safest pairs - you may have an idea from their day to day interactions which are better friends and may be ok together unsupervised (two females or two males are probably most likely to fight). Avoid any flashpoints such s food or chew toys unless crated as these often trigger fights