Planning a vacation with your dog can add to the enjoyments. It also alleviates your worry of wondering if they’re being properly cared for while you’re traveling on the road. Before you embark on your trip together, you need to do your homework. Cars, planes and trains aren’t designed around your dog, so you need to know what’s ahead of you. When you plan well in advance, you can make your vacation a happy and memorable experience for everyone.
Wellness Check and Safety
As a dog owner, you do everything that you can to keep them happy and healthy. From feeding them the best food and monitoring their health, it’s a job full of responsibilities. Bring your dog for a wellness check to the vet before your trip. Your vet will be able to determine if they’re up-to-date on their shots. They may also provide you with the proper health certificates you need and shot records. You want to ensure your dog’s health and wellness on the trip by bringing along their regular food, treats and bottled water. Don’t forget medications and an emergency wellness kit in case of an illness or injury.
Crating Your Dog
Although Golden Meadows Retrievers have sweet temperaments and come from excellent pedigrees, your dog should be crate trained from the puppy stage to ensure their safety. Look for a crate that is sturdy and without interior protrusions that can injure them. The crate should also be big enough so your dog can turn, stand or lie down. The sides should be well ventilated so your dog can get appropriate air flow. Although the crate can come in handy on trips when you want to keep your dog out of trouble, you should never leave them alone or in a hot car for any amount of time.
Proper Identification
Keeping your dog secured on a sturdy leash can prevent them from escaping and getting lost. Examine your leash and collar before vacation to ensure it’s in good condition. If the leash is worn, frayed or the hook is broke, purchase something new. If your dog gets away during vacation, you’ll increase your odds of recovering them quickly with the proper identification. The dog tags should have the name of the dog, an email address and cell phone number. This allows you to get immediate updates via your smartphone. Microchips are a more permanent form of identification that allows you to find your dog if they escape.
Traveling Via Car
If you’re traveling via car, you want to get your dog used to the ride in advance of your trip. Short trips to the bank, pet store, and the dog park are happy and enjoyable experiences for them. Seat harnesses or a crate can alleviate anxiety and keep them in place while you drive. This is especially important if you’re driving solo with your dog. For dogs who get car sick, you may want to avoid feedings before your drive. But make sure they have plenty of water, as it’s important they are properly hydrated at all times.
Exercise and Potty Stops
Your canine may get restless on your trip, especially if you’re going long distances. To break up the monotony for both you and your best friend, you want to make regular stops. This allows your pet to go to the bathroom and stretch their legs. Find out the best rest areas along your route. You may also want to find a dog park or walking trail for your dog to burn off extra energy. When done, your dog will be tired and ready to nap.
Dogs are some of the easiest going traveling companions. With their happy demeanor and zest for adventure, traveling with your canine can be a great way to see the world. But you need to ensure that you do your research and make arrangements well in advance of your trip.
