A Dog Mom’s Favorite Tips For Traveling With Dogs
Going on vacation can be a fun adventure or a relaxing break, but traveling with dogs can be a bit more complicated. Still, many pet parents find that making the extra plans is more than worth it. After all, shouldn’t a family vacation include the entire family?
Dog-friendly travel is more accessible than you might think, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long road trip. With this ultimate guide to traveling with dogs, you’ll learn everything you need to know—what to do, what to pack, what to see, and what to consider while exploring the world with your furry friend.
In this article…
- Decipher how to decide if traveling with dogs is the right move for you
- Learn how to create the ultimate dog-friendly packing list for your trip.
- Consider all aspects of traveling with dogs to create your ideal travel itinerary
Why Traveling With Dogs is Worth the Work
If traveling with dogs seems like a lot of work, that’s because it is! Caring for a pet while away from home includes even more work than when you’re at home, especially if sticking to your dog’s routine isn’t possible while traveling.
So why would you do it? In addition to avoiding the guilt of leaving your furry friend at home, dog parents who bring their pups on the road (or in the air) will know that their pet is always in the best hands: their own! Being with their human in a new place can be easier for dogs with separation anxiety, but having a dog around can also be a comfort, a joy, and a source of entertainment for the owner, too.
The best reason of all to travel with your dog is to show them the world. Remember, your pup may only be a part of your life, but you’re their entire universe. What better way to bond than by seeing the world together?
Before You Book: Preparation Makes Pawfect
Planning a vacation may not be nearly as relaxing as the trip itself, but a little research and preparation go a long way. Here’s everything you need to consider before leaving on your dog-friendly vacation.
Is Your Dog Ready to Travel?
Before you start packing for your dream vacation, it’s essential to ensure your dog is ready to travel too. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure your pup is in good health. During this visit, you can confirm that your dog is up to date on vaccinations, medications, and microchip details.
If your travel destination requires specific vaccinations or treatments for animals, now is the ideal time to address this. You should also request health certificates and vaccination records, as they may be necessary for air travel, crossing state or international borders, or if you’re using a kennel or pet sitter during your trip.
Dog-Friendly Travel Destinations
The destination is the most important detail in your dog-friendly vacation, so choose wisely! Perhaps you have a destination in mind, if you’re meeting family or tagging along on a partner’s work trip, or maybe there’s still research to be done.
Regardless of how far along you are in the planning process, these are important details to research about your destination before traveling with dogs:
- Verify pet policies for hotels, vacation rentals, and activities
- Research dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and attractions
- Check local leash laws and pet regulations
- Identify nearby emergency vet clinics
- Look up pet supply stores in case you forget essentials
- Research climate considerations (hot pavement, altitude, etc.)
Planning Transportation For Your Dog-Friendly Vacation
When traveling with dogs, getting to and from your destination is just as important as the time you spend at the destination itself. Your transportation options may be limited depending on your dog’s size, their health, or even your budget, but it’s essential to consider all options nevertheless.
By Plane
Further destinations can be reached quickly, but tickets can be pricey, and size restrictions may mean that your dog rides in cargo. Research each airline’s pet policies to learn how and where your dog would travel. This option would require purchasing a pet carrier, travel water bottle/bowl, and potentially a plane ticket for your dog.
By Train
Trains are faster than cars but slower than planes. Pet policies vary by rail line but often require dogs in carriers at all times. Luxury rail lines that give passengers their own spaces may allow dogs on leash or out of a crate. This is when you’ll want to do your research! Going this route may require purchasing pet carriers and other basic dog travel supplies.
By Automobile
Driving to your destination may take the longest, but it gives you the most control. You’ll stay with your dog the entire time and can stop for food and potty breaks whenever needed. You may need to purchase seat covers, dog car seats, and other canine travel basics. It’s important to remember that some dogs experience car sickness and anxiety in small spaces, so please plan accordingly!
Packing for Paws: The Ultimate Packing List For Travelling With Dogs
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