The lack of planning can ruin a road trip in an instance. Hearing the words “we don’t allow dogs” when you’re tired of driving and searching for a place to stay is really disheartening. It adds a level of weariness that makes you want to throw your hands up in the air and head for home.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. It is possible to travel with your dog and have a good time doing it. A little research can go a long way in making your road trip a success.
Once you have a destination in mind, check with the hotel, camp ground or bed and breakfast that you wish to stay in. See if they are dog-friendly. Some places allow dogs; others cater to them.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the staff. You will want to find out if any pet sitting is offered in the event you want to visit places that do not allow dogs.
Keep in mind that most places will ask you not to leave the dog alone in your room. You need to have a game plan if you plan to eat out or visit tourist attractions. For example, an amusement park may offer boarding for the hours you’re there. Do not assume that you can take your dog everywhere with you.
Depending on the area, there may be health codes against allowing your dog in the restaurant with you. It is vital that you research these details before you leave home with your dog in the car.
When calling ahead to make reservations, check to see if the place of your choice has any restrictions on size of breed. Some hotels prefer smaller dogs and will not allow large breed dogs to stay.
Once you have a destination, it is a good idea to check local health regulations concerning dogs. Are there any special vaccinations required? Will you have to present proof of vaccinations? It is always a good idea to confer with the dog’s veterinarian before embarking on a travel plan. Be sure to get a copy of vaccination records so that you can carry them with you.
Once you arrive at your planned destination, check with the staff to see where you should walk your dog. Some establishments offer dedicated areas for exercise and bathroom business.
Be respectful of others at the hotel, inn or campground. Don’t let your dog run free or bark continuously. It is not a right to have your dog with you. It is a privilege.
Hopefully, your dog is already comfortable riding in your car. If it isn’t, you should definitely get the dog acclimated to road travel before you head out on your trip. This can be done by putting the dog in the car while it is parked at your home. Start with short rides and gradually extend the length of the trip.
Some dogs are prone to car sickness. If your pet is, it is best that the dog travel on an empty stomach.
However, make sure the dog has plenty of fresh water. This may require stopping to allow the dog time to drink.
Traveling with a dog can extend the length of the trip. If embarking on a long trip, you need to allow time to stop for bathroom breaks and some exercise.
If you are traveling with children and a dog, make sure the children understand that it is important to keep the dog calm. Don’t allow them to tease or pester the dog.
Great care must be taken to ensure that your dog is not shut in the car in hot weather. It takes only a few minutes for the temperature in a closed up car to reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is hot and you have to stop, leave the windows down and post someone to stay with the dog until all are ready to return to the road.
It is very important that you have the proper identification on your dog. Be sure to carry a strong leash and outfit your dog with a strong, comfortable collar on which you can post the Information. It is important to include telephone numbers where someone who finds your dog can get an answer while you’re away from home.
Consider using your cell phone number if you carry your phone with you on trips. You may want to list a contact number for the dog’s vet or for a friend, neighbor or family member that can relay information to you while you are traveling away from home.
It is also important for you to research veterinarian offices along your route. Should your dog become ill or injured while traveling, you will want to know where you can go for help.
You should consider restraining your dog while traveling on the road. Some people prefer to travel with their dog’s crate. If your dog is used to a crate, it can be a helpful tool while traveling. The crate can keep your dog safe should you be involved in an accident. A crate is a good means of keeping Fido out of trouble in the hotel room. The last thing you need is for the dog to chew a hole in the carpet!
Be sure the crate is the right size for your dog. He or she should have room to stand and lie down. Space should be ample enough so that the dog can turn around in the crate. It is important that there is adequate ventilation in the crate. Don’t cover it with suitcases or other items that will cut off the flow of fresh air.
If you follow these tips and are well prepared, traveling with your dog can be a pleasure. If you head out and leave everything to chance, a leisurely vacation can fast become a nightmare. Remember the old adage – “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
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