How to Travel With Your Dog
For the millions of Americans who enjoy dog travel, it would be unthinkable to set off on a trip without their canine companions. Thanks to the incredible demand created by these traveling pet owners, there are more pet friendly activities and amenities than ever before! Do you like camping, hiking and rafting? Your dog is a natural. Prefer a bed-and-breakfast? Just find one that’s pet-friendly. There are even rentals with fenced acreage so he can run! With just a little planning and the right supplies, you and your dog can have a fun, relaxing trip together.
• Provide the comforts of home
Be the best "travel parent" you can be for your dog. Bring a healthy supply of his regular food, and include water from home to guard against gastrointestinal distress. Put the food and water in portable no-spill bowls. Include a small first-aid kit and a supply of any medication he might need on the journey. A favorite blankie is a good idea, too.
• Restrain for safety
Just like people wear seatbelts, dogs must be restrained in a vehicle for control and safety. A dog who’s riding “shotgun” can distract the driver, get injured or escape. The best solution is a ventilated crate, although there are some safety harnesses designed for dogs in cars. A crate is also the best option for a dog traveling by air.
• Guard against loss
Stress, noise and strange smells can confuse your dog and cause him to bolt. Prepare for the worst, so that you can bring about a happy ending. Put tags on his collar that include a number where you can be reached on the trip. Carry a recent photo with you, and bring contact info for shelters at your destination.
• Bring Fido’s “files”
Bring your dog’s medical history with you, in case you need to visit a vet. Attach his metal rabies tag to his collar, but bring the actual paperwork along – many hotels will insist on seeing it.
• Enjoy the options of pet-friendly lodging
You’ll find choices from motels to cabins to high-end hotels. Always double-check your reservation to make sure that policies and prices are mutually understood. Practice excellent “petiquette,” too. Leave your lodging just as you found it, and always clean up after your pooch!
• Have a potty solution
You and your dog can mostly stick to regular walks with a plastic bag for his toilet needs. But if you’re stuck in a room, you might want to bring along some housebreaking pads for the floor, or even this portable dog potty yard!
• Explore dog friendly activities
The outdoors is the best place for this, so consider local beaches, woods and parks. You’ll find owner/dog group hikes, people canoeing with dogs and even fields and beaches where he can run off-leash! There are even special dog camps that give you and your dog one-on-one time to explore things like water sports, obedience, communication and even massage.
