More than half of all pet owners take their dog with them on vacation and are finding that their dogs are welcome at hundreds of hotels, motels, and restaurants around the country. To make sure you and your dog get the most from your vacation, here are some helpful suggestions.
Traveling By Car With Your Dog
If you've never taken your dog on vacation before and will be driving, take them on a shorter trip before your vacation date to see how well they adjust to riding in the car. If your dog has a tendency to get sick or anxious, your veterinarian can prescribe medication to keep your dog feeling safe and secure during the trip. Keep your dog secure in a crate or restraining with a pet seat belt. Keep plenty of water in a container for the trip and don't ever leave your dog in a car alone. Make sure your pet's tag are up-to-date and have medical records with you. A lot of hotels and resorts welcome your pet so you can both enjoy the trip.
Airline Travel With Your Dog
Every airline has specific rules about traveling with pets, so plan in advance. Your dog's shots must be current, and you will need to take veterinary records with you. Some airlines won't allow passengers to bring dogs on the plane if the weather is extremely hot or cold. The crate your dog travels in must be airline approved. A small dog such as a Chihuahua may be kept in a crate underneath your seat.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations and Fun Spots
When you're traveling with your dog, it's a good idea to locate the nearest emergency veterinary clinics in the event your friend gets sick on the trip. Pet-friendly accommodations include hotels and motels, bed and breakfasts, cabins, and campgrounds. If you and your furry traveling companion are on a budget, you can save on pet-friendly lodging with Red Roof Inn coupons. Certain restaurants, amusement parks, beaches, museums, and shops are also pet-friendly. A little research when planning your trip will allow you to find fun places to visit with your dog.
Pet-Friendly Policies
Pet-friendly doesn't mean you can book accommodations and bring six dogs with you. Most hotels have restrictions on the number of dogs that are allowed, and there may be restrictions on weight. Dogs are allowed in certain areas of the hotel and are not allowed to be left alone in the guest's rooms. Leash laws apply at the hotels.
Travel by bus or Amtrak is typically not an option with a dog. Only service dogs are allowed on trains and buses. The best way to have an enjoyable vacation is to plan in advance, so you and your dog both enjoy the vacation. Book your flight as soon as possible, and if you're driving to your destination, plan your route to allow for plenty of rest and exercise stops.
