You make the most unforgettable memories when you are on vacation with your loved ones. Bringing your dog with you can only enhance the experience. But what does it mean to go on vacation with a dog? Obviously, you’ll need a little more planning and can’t just go on a whim.
Here, we share valuable tips on how to take your dog on vacation so you can plan the best dog-friendly vacation for your family, including your furry friend.
Planning is the key to a smooth and incident-free vacation with your dog.
Once you’ve had a health check with your veterinarian, make sure your accommodation is pet-friendly, plan how you’ll transport your pet, pack everything he needs, and have a plan for picking up your dog just in case. where he would get lost.
Schedule checkups with the veterinarian
Family vacations are more enjoyable when you bring your dog. However, before you can go on vacation with pet dogs, make an appointment with the veterinarian first.
A routine health check ensures that your pet is physically and mentally fit to travel and that all their vaccinations and injections are up to date. The veterinarian can give you tips on traveling with pets, such as how to soothe anxiety and restlessness in vehicles.
You can also obtain health certificates if they are required for travel.
Plus, a vet appointment is the best time to ask questions about your fur baby’s health. For example, you might want to know can dogs eat dragon fruitlychees and pomelos if you plan to take your pet on a tropical vacation.
Do your accommodations accept pets?
When looking for places to take your dog, make sure they are pet-friendly – you don’t want to travel thousands of miles just to be turned away by a hotel that doesn’t allow dogs on its premises.
Here are some other accommodation-related factors to keep in mind:
- Find out in advance if the hotel you plan to stay in allows dogs. Confirm with management as some pet-friendly accommodations have size restrictions.
- If dogs are permitted on hotel premises, please be respectful of other guests and staff.
- Always clean up after your dog and never leave a mess behind. You can ask the hotel management for routes where you can safely walk your dog.
- Never leave your dog unattended. They are more likely to bark at people or be destructive when in strange and unfamiliar places.
Plan your trip and transport
Before going on vacation with your dog, it is best to research car sickness and dog anxiety when traveling by car, plane or boat.
Most dogs love to travel by car because it usually leads to exciting places, such as a walk, friends or dog daycare, says the veterinarian. Dr Jonathan Robers. “However, some dogs, especially puppies or novice dogs, may experience anxiety when traveling in the car.”
Car-related anxiety symptoms can manifest in many ways, such as resisting entry to the car, sniffing to get out, whining, moaning, barking, shivering, shaking, gasping, fidgeting, and licking paws . It could also lead to vomiting or diarrhea.
Travel sickness is more manageable due to the availability of medication.
With that in mind, research your travel preferences well. Check and follow airline or cruise line guidelines. If you’re traveling by car, don’t forget to install a dog car seat or dog seat belt and plan regular stops for your dog to relieve himself. It would also be helpful if he travels on an empty stomach with plenty of water readily available.
Prepare identification and pack all essentials
Even the best-behaved dog can become agitated when exposed to strange and unfamiliar surroundings. Since your pet could accidentally run away from you and get lost, make sure they carry proper identification.
First, be sure to bring a detailed collar and a sturdy leash. The collar should have your dog’s name, your name and contact information on it.
Second, make sure you have a recent photo of your dog for faster recovery. It is also wise to bring a copy of all recent vaccinations, rabies shots and health records.
Finally, you might consider using a microchip for permanent identification, as it’s the quickest way to get your dog back in case he gets lost.
How to make your vacation with your dog more fun
Here are some additional tips for pet owners:
- Bring a supply of regular food and bottled water for your dog as well as any necessary medications. Opt for collapsible bowls rather than the usual bulky bowls.
- Plan your dog toilet breaks and bring supplies to clean up afterwards.
- Pack games, toys and treats so your dog won’t be bored on the trip.
- Make sure your dog has all his rabies shots and vaccinations.
- Always be prepared for emergencies. Make sure there is a vet nearby.
Don’t leave your vacation with your dog to chance. With careful planning, packing, and coordination, you and your dog can have a fun and relaxing trip together. Have a good trip!