Don't Leave Your Pup at Home: 5 Tips for Traveling with a Dog
As every dog owner knows, travel can be complicated when you have a four-legged companion. Many people choose to leave their pets at home with a sitter or board them at a kennel. However, with the right amount of planning and preparation, you can bring your pup along for the trip! Here are 5 tips for traveling with your dog to ensure a safe, smooth, and joyful journey filled with unforgettable memories.
#1 - Plan Ahead
The first step to traveling with a dog is to do your research on pet-friendly accommodations. Many hotels, campgrounds, and rentals do not allow animals, so doing your homework is critical! Check for pet-friendly options that provide amenities as well such as proximity to a dog park, a fenced-in yard, etc.
It would also serve you well to look into transportation policies if you are taking a plane, train, or bus. Airlines have very specific regulations regarding size restrictions, health certificates, and even carriers. It’s best to understand the policies in place before booking transportation or accommodations.
#2 - Bring the Essentials
You are your dog’s home. So, it’s good practice to ensure that your canine has everything they are accustomed to when they are in your own permanent residence. Here’s a quick overview of what you should pack:
Regular dog food (enough for the entire trip)
Portable bowls for food and water
Treats
Comfort items (favorite toy, blanket, or bed)
Travel documents (vaccination records, health certificates, ID tags, etc)
First-aid kit
#3 - Preparation for the Trip
If you are driving, your dog’s safety and comfort need to be top priorities. Invest in a good quality crate, carrier, or pet seat belt to ensure that they are being transported safely. Never let your pup ride in the front seat or hang their head out the window. You will need to schedule breaks every few hours for exercise, hydration, and potty time. Also, never leave your dog alone in a parked vehicle. The inside gets extremely hot very quickly.
If you are traveling with an airline, you’ll need to find an approved carrier that is well-ventilated and large enough for your dog to move around. If it’s a new carrier, give them enough time to acclimate to it at home before the journey. It’s also best to remain calm and relaxed so that your canine will also feel more at ease.
#4 - Maintain a Routine
Although this one may be a bit trickier, sticking to your dog’s regular routine as much as possible will help keep them comfortable. This includes regular feeding, exercise, play, and sleep. To help reduce anxiety and burn some energy, make sure your dog is getting to enjoy any local parks, hiking trails, or dog-friendly beaches. It’s also a good idea to monitor your pet’s health along the way and have contact information for a local vet just in case!
#5 - Have Fun
Finally, traveling with a dog doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s a great opportunity for creating lasting memories. Be sure to embrace the journey, take plenty of pictures, and just have a good time! You can even pick up a small tripod with a remote to take candid shots with your phone.
Wrapping Up
While going on a trip with your pooch might seem daunting at first, it can be a blast with the right amount of planning and preparation. Just keep your dog’s needs in mind to ensure that they are safe and stress-free as much as possible. Happy tails and travels!
