Traveling with a pet will often create memories of a lifetime for you and your pet. However, when it comes to traveling with a pet, you are going to need to plan more than just where you can take your pet. Oftentimes when looking at destinations and accommodations, there are many pet friendly places; however, even if they are pet friendly, some of those same locations can have pet limitations, pet hazards, or environmental issues that would not be suitable for all pets.
Ultimately, how well your vacation goes with your pet will depend on how well you understand your pet’s personality, health needs, and comfort level, as well as being able to find locations that are safe and allowable for your pet.
Consider Your Dog Before Choosing a Destination
Not every top tourist attraction is suitable for all travelers. The number one rule for traveling with pets is to choose a destination based upon the characteristics of your pet.
For example, some dogs love busy environments with new faces and experiences while others get anxious from crowded areas and associated noise and stressors.
When planning a vacation, take into consideration
- Your dog’s age and physical condition
- Comfort with car rides or flights
- Social behavior around people and other animals
- Response to new environments
- Exercise requirements
Research Pet Policies Before Booking
Although some pet friendly hotels may have the same pet policy, other hotels may have restrictions on certain types of animals (size, breed), the number of pets allowed in a room, whether pets can be left unattended, etc.
When booking a pet friendly hotel, it is very important to look at the following:
- Whether dogs are allowed in all rooms or only specific areas
- Additional fees or deposits
- Restrictions on leaving dogs alone in rooms
- Available outdoor spaces
- Rules regarding barking or noise
Looking at this information before arriving at the hotel will help prevent problems when you arrive at the hotel and allow for a better experience for both you and your pets.
Choose a Safe Accommodation Environment
Finding a hotel room that allows dogs is important, but finding one that provides a safe environment for your dog to spend time during your vacation is even more important.
You want to find a hotel room that has a few amenities. Secure entrance/exit to the hotel room. An area close by to take your dog for walks. Enough area in the room for your dog to relax.
Ground floor rooms may be more convenient for dogs with mobility issues or frequent bathroom breaks, depending on the hotel’s layout.
Check the Surrounding Area
The safety of the surrounding neighborhood is equally important as the quality of the hotel itself.
Before selecting a destination, consider if the area has adequate pedestrian paths and whether it presents risk factors to your dog’s safety.
Factors to assess will include;
- Traffic levels
- Extreme weather conditions
- Availability of shaded walking areas
- Local wildlife
- Access to veterinary care
Extreme heat, unusual vegetation, parasites, or unsafe outdoor areas can provide health related concerns to dogs who are not accustomed to this type of environment.
Prepare for Hotel Stays
While many dogs exhibit good behavior while on vacation at home, they can act differently when away from home.
In addition to new smells and sounds, dogs can experience anxiety due to an unfamiliar routine; bringing along familiar items (such as bedding, toys, or food bowls) can assist in creating a familiar environment.
Consistent feeding and exercise habits will support your dog in adjusting to its new surroundings.
For some time after arrival, you should keep an eye on your dog and ensure it does not wander into unknown parts of their room. Some hotels could potentially expose your pet to various hazardous substances (i.e., poisonous materials, unsafe foods), etc., that could affect their safety.
Understand Travel Restrictions
There are varying laws across different countries and states regarding what animals can take with them when traveling by air, car, train, etc.
Some areas, like local, state, or international, may require documentation vaccination records, ID cards, Health Certificates, etc. before transporting your pet. In most cases, there are restrictions on what activities your pet can participate in, such as beaches, parks, eating establishments, and public transportation, and depending on where you go, you may need to get your pet vaccinated or health checked before traveling internationally.
Consider Your Dog’s Health and Comfort
You should always consider your dog’s health when you are choosing a travel destination.
If your dog has a chronic illness, mobility problem, or severe anxiety, he may require even further planning. Some dogs may find long trips, hot or cold climates and new places stressful.
It would be beneficial before traveling to determine if your dog will be able to physically and mentally fit in with the type of vacation that you have planned.
For example, a dog with joint issues may not be well suited for a hike, but a dog that becomes anxious around people would probably not enjoy walking through a city.
Preparing Your Dog for Safe Travel and Maintaining Routines
Traveling with your pet is much simpler for both you and your pet by preparing them properly.
Some essentials to pack for safe travel and maintaining routines include:
- Regular meals and treats
- Water and a portable water and eating bowl
- Leash and identification tags
- Prescription medication
- Waste bags
- Familiar bedding or toys
- Grooming supplies
The inclusion of these familiar items can help reduce your pet’s stress as they provide it with a scent reminder of its home.
Common Mistakes During Dog Friendly Travel
A lot of pet related problems occur simply because owners assume their pet will adjust to a trip immediately.
An error commonly made by owners is to plan too many activities for one day. In addition to socializing with other dogs and engaging in physical activity, all dogs need quiet time each day to rest.
Another frequently made error is leaving a pet alone in an unfamiliar hotel room without determining what potential reactions might arise. A pet which is normally relaxed at home could develop separation distress in an unknown location.
Finally, ignoring the weather conditions at a travel destination can cause serious problems. In warm locations, i.e., pavement, sand, etc. can burn or overheat the paws of your pet. Similarly, extreme heat or cold can make your pet uncomfortable or sick.
Respect Other Travelers
The success of a positive dog friendly travel experience is largely due to responsible behavior. Keeping your dog under control in public spaces, picking up after your dog and adhering to the rules of where you are staying will help ensure a safer environment for all parties involved. Not everyone has the same comfort level with animals as you do; therefore, its very important to show respect for those who may have concerns about having your dog present.
Conclusion
In addition to identifying destinations or hotels that allow pets, there are many other factors to consider when choosing a safe location for your dog. By thinking through your dogs temperament, physical condition, personal comfort levels and safety needs, you can create a much better overall travel experience. The more time and effort put into researching, preparing and developing realistic expectations before traveling with your pet, the greater the likelihood that both you and your dog enjoy the trip safely and comfortably.
