Traveling with a dog is an ideal way to enjoy your holiday, but it can require some advance planning. Here are the ultimate tips to ensure you and your pup have a safe and happy journey during this holiday season.
Table of Contents
Crate Training of your pup
Travel with a dog can be a wonderful experience for the whole family, but you may need to introduce your pup to crate training first. Prior to your Trip, get your pup accustomed to crate training so they feel comfortable in their new space. Crate training is essential for safety and convenience when traveling with your dog. Introduce the crate gradually in a positive way, associating it with treats, toys, and rewards.
It’s important to be patient throughout this process as dogs may take some time to get accustomed to their new sleeping area. Allow them space and privacy if possible – noise from other travelers or airports can be particularly stressful for pups. If necessary for safety, pet-friendly seatbelt harnesses are available for purchase before your flight or drive.
Training your pup to sleep comfortably and safely in the crate from the start can be a lifesaver on your holiday adventure. Choose a bag or crate for them that is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and secure. Ensure there’s enough ventilation and airflow for your pup, especially during air travel when temperatures can change drastically between cabins or on the ground.
Load up their essentials like water bowls, chew toys, and blankets to make them feel at home. Be sure you have all of your dog’s necessary paperwork as well, such as vaccination records – you never know when something might be requested along the way!
Know Where You’re Going
When planning a Travel with a dog, one of the most important decisions to make is selecting the right destination. While some places offer more dog-friendly amenities than others, it’s essential to determine which location best suits both your and your furry friend’s needs. Additionally, being aware of any health, safety, and travel requirements before setting off on your journey can help ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.
Research any pet restrictions before you book a hotel or Airbnb. It’s important to be aware of any pet restrictions before you book a stay. Some lodgings have size, weight, and breed restrictions for pets so call or email the management beforehand to ensure your pup is welcome at the hotel or Airbnb. You may also need to pay an additional pet fee and sign a waiver when checking in. Researching potential accommodations ahead of time can save you time and money in the long run – and make for a smooth transition for the whole family.
When you’ve found the perfect place for you and your pup to stay, ask about nearby dog-friendly attractions. Most cities have some sort of pet-friendly activities that both you and your pup can enjoy, from parks and trails to local businesses like restaurants and breweries. Take some time to research in advance or ask the accommodation management for recommendations before arriving. With just a bit of preparation, you can take a holiday with your furry best friend that’s stress-free and fun.
Once you’ve researched your accommodation, consider what other activities you can do with your pup. Take some time to seek out dog-friendly beaches and trails in the area before you go Travel with a dog, or places that offer services like grooming and treats for pooches. This way, you don’t have to worry about missing out on a moment of quality time with your furbaby.
Additionally, these activities can be great opportunities for socialization – so much fun for both you and your pup! And of course, always remember to stock up on treats before the trip – there’s a good chance your pup will need some rewards along the way.
Pack The Essentials Things
Make sure your furry friend has access to all the necessities like food, toy, dog treats, and documents for traveling safely. Don’t forget the dog’s food and any medication they may need. It’s best to bring the same brands your pet is used to in order to avoid any digestive issues caused by a sudden change in diet. Bring their favorite chew toy, treats, a leash, bowl, and water bottle for long car rides or hikes. Plus don’t forget any required documents like a vet checkup report or health certificate from your vet if necessary.
Before hitting the road or traveling in Travel with a dog, it’s best to condition your pup for car rides by gradually increasing their time in the car. Start by taking them a few blocks away and then slowly increase the distance until they are comfortable with longer drives.
Stock up on dog poo bags, some pet-specific wipes for cleaning muddy paws, and paper towels – you never know when you may need these! If you’re camping or doing other activities outdoors make sure to apply flea or tick repellent if needed as well. With a little bit of preparation, you’ll be ready to have an incredible and safe holiday with your pup.
Pack a pet travel kit
A pet travel kit should be a must-have item for any journey with your furry friend. A kit should contain the essentials you may need in an emergency such as food, medications, toys, bedding, and a leash. Be sure to include treats to reward your pooch for behaving well during the flight or car ride and make sure you have enough supplies for the entire vacation. Packing in advance will help ensure your trip goes off without a hitch!
Once you have packed a pet travel kit, it’s also important to consider other aspects of your dog’s needs for the duration of the vacation. If you plan to be away from home for more than a week it may be a good idea to hire a pet sitter or board them at a local kennel. That way they will be taken care of in your absence, saving you from worrying about leaving them all alone in an unfamiliar environment.
Additionally, Vet records should also be brought along on the trip so that if any medical attention is needed it can easily be accessed by whatever vet you consult on your travels. With these considerations, trips with Fido can be lots of fun!
Toy & Chew
Having a big list of go-to items on hand is essential when you’re hitting the road with your furry friend. A few pockets full of treats and chews are essential, helping keep their minds occupied and avoiding any boredom-driven destructive behavior while they’re alone in their travel space. It also always helps to have their food and water dishes, as well as a snuggle toy or two in case they get homesick.
Clean comfy bedding with non-skid soles should be a must for ensuring maximum levels of safety and comfort for your four-legged companion. You may even want to bring some washable blankets for outdoor activities so that when muddy paws come waltzing into the car, clean-up can be quick and painless.
Dog foods
You are feeding your pup on time while traveling is still essential. Although it’s tempting to feed your pet treats while they’re in their carrier, table scraps or sugary snacks can have a negative impact on their digestive system and make them unwell during the trip. For road trips, it’s best to bring food that contains all the right healthy ingredients. Depending on the length of your trip, bring a bag of food and divide it up into measured portions before you leave so that you don’t need to worry about running out.
Depending on where you’re staying, also remember to double-check whether there are no additional local regulations that influence what kind of dog food you can provide for your pup – especially if you will be spending most of your time outdoors during the holiday season.
Dog crate before
Another thing you should include on your list is a foldable and lightweight dog crate. This way, you can have them around the room while still having your pup contained in a safe place. The crate should be comfortable enough to ensure they get the rest they need during the trip, as well as secure enough not to provide any escape opportunities. Make sure it’s also big enough for them to stand up, turn around and stretch out comfortably inside.
You may want to get familiar with your pup’s favorite toys/treats and some cushions as these could make their trip a bit better too!
Get Your Pet Familiar With Their Transportation Gear
If you plan on flying with your pet, familiarize them with the airline carrier prior to the trip so it is part of their routine beforehand. Carriers and crates can make your pet feel a bit overwhelmed when it is unfamiliar to them. To avoid this, getting your dog used to the particular items you plan on bringing is best. Show your pup that their carrier can serve as a safe, comfortable place and let them inside by placing treats and chew toys in it. Place it around the house and ensure that they are relaxed when inside it. Take them out for short rides in the car in their crate before embarking on your journey together.
Get your dog ready for the travel
Before leaving, you want to give your pup the opportunity to get used to the idea of travel. This will help them become familiar with your vehicle and feel more comfortable during long trips.
Traveling By Car with your dog
- Make sure they are used to being in the car by allowing them to sit in it while you remain in the driveway. Then, start implementing short car rides so that they can become accustomed to traveling in a vehicle and get ready for more extended trips!
- It is important to take some precautionary measures to make the journey as comfortable as possible for your furry friend. Make sure your pup’s stomach is empty before heading out, as this will help prevent carsickness. Additionally, be sure he has access to plenty of water during the trip.
- It’s important to make sure you have plenty of stops planned for exercise and potty breaks. Keeping your pet safe on the drive also means ensuring that you clean up after them – it’s kind to other travelers and will keep you from getting fined!
- Ensure proper ventilation while your dog travels by car. If the pooch is in a crate or kennel, make sure that the constant flow of fresh air is allowed to enter and circulate within the crate.
- Make sure they are secure by either having a kennel/crate or being properly secured with a seat belt or harness. Don’t let them roam freely as it can be dangerous for them and for the driver, and never ever allow your dog to ride in the back of an open truck — this is extremely hazardous and could result in serious harm or even death.
- One of the best ways to ensure their safety is to use a dog seat belt or a dog car seat. This will keep them secure and minimize distractions so that you can focus on the road ahead.
- It’s best to ensure everyone in the vehicle is well-behaved. Keep your children from teasing or agitating the pup while on the road. This way, everyone can enjoy the ride without any added stress.
- When traveling by car with your pup, it’s incredibly important to ensure their safety and security. Never leave your dog unattended in a parked or running vehicle– especially during the summer months. If you need to make a stop, have a family member stay with them in the car or bring them inside with you. For more detailed information on pet safety during the hot summer months, check out our summer safety tips!
- Make sure to keep the windows closed. Allowing your dog to stick their head out of an open window can lead to eye injuries, so it’s best to avoid this altogether.
Flying with your dog
- Make sure to visit the vet and get them up to date on all of their vaccinations. You should also be able to provide health certification no more than 10 days prior to travel. All dogs must be over 8 weeks old and weaned before they’re allowed onboard!
- Be sure to check in with your vet first. It’s important to make sure that your canine companion is healthy enough and in the right condition to travel by plane. Discuss with your vet if a light sedative is necessary, especially if they are prone to stress. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the weather conditions at your departure site and destination; both very hot and cold temperatures could be dangerous for dogs.
- Air travel with your beloved canine can be a tricky endeavor. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, it is forbidden to ship live animals as excess baggage or cargo if there is a risk of temperatures dropping below 45°F or exceeding 85°F for more than four hours during departure, arrival, or while making connections.
- It’s wise to familiarize yourself with the airline’s regulations and services first. Depending on the airline, you may need to have a specific size and type of crate or carrier for your pup—if yours doesn’t meet their requirements, they might not allow you onboard. However, some airlines will let small dogs (crates and all) in the passenger cabin as long as the crate fits underneath the seat in front of you.
- Make sure to check your airline’s pet policy before booking – they may have restrictions on the number of pets allowed per flight. Once you’ve decided that your furry friend can come along, reserve spots for them prior to boarding. Space is filling up quickly so make sure to act fast and get seats secured as soon as possible!
Traveling by Train, Bus, Or Boat with your dog
Depending on the mode of transportation, regulations for bringing along your pet can vary. For example, Amtrak allows small dogs (under 20 pounds) on their trains for a fee of $25. Unfortunately, however, Greyhound and other interstate bus companies do not allow pets (although service dogs are still permitted). Regulations may be different depending on local city rail and bus lines, so it’s best to double-check the policies before you set off!
Prepare For Emergencies
Have a plan in place should any medical emergencies arise while traveling with your dog as you don’t want to leave them stranded if something happens. Look up local animal hospitals, boarding facilities, and groomers in the areas you are traveling to ahead of time. Make sure your pup is microchipped before going, as it could be essential in finding them if they were to get lost. Also, bring along updated vet records including vaccines, health history information, and proof of rabies vaccination should you ever encounter the need to board them.
First aids
Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit for your pup containing items such as tweezers, antiseptic wipes, and cream, bandages, gauze pads and rolls, an e-collar in case of injuries or allergies to certain medications, syringes and needles for oral medication administration, the activated charcoal in case of accidental ingestion of something toxic, shoes for traction on slippery surfaces such as docks or boats and other items that can help treat minor injury or illnesses. Should any major medical event arise while traveling with your pup make sure you seek veterinary care right away.
Nearby hospital
Make sure to look up the closest vet or emergency clinic to the area you’ll be visiting just in case something arises. Have them printed out and maybe even programmed in your GPS so you will know where to go if there are any emergencies. Do research ahead of time so that you can find a good veterinarian who is familiar with treating all kinds of pets, as this can provide great assurance should anything happen during your vacation.
Review all of the rules: from transportation to destination, follow the rules
Before booking your trip, research the rules and regulations of the airline, train, or bus you’ll be using. Every type of transportation has different regulations when it comes to bringing a pet along for the ride. Once you arrive at your destination, check if there are any restrictions on pets staying in hotels or visiting attractions. This way, you’ll avoid any disappointment if your pup isn’t allowed in certain places or must wear a muzzle for the duration of the trip.
Airline
Airline rules for flying with a pet vary by airline and by the size of your dog. In general, larger carriers like Delta, United, and American allow small dogs to travel in an approved carrier that fits below the seat in front of you. The pup can stay in this carrier during the entire flight as long as they remain quiet and there is no threat to the safety of other passengers or crew members. Airlines also require documentation, such as proof of current rabies shot and an emailed health certificate from your veterinarian within 10 days of flying. Be sure to check all these requirements before booking your ticket!
Train
Some train services may have restrictions when it comes to large dogs but all of them ask that smaller breeds travel in an approved carrier. It is also important to check the sleeping car policy, as you may be required to find alternative sleeping arrangements for your pup, such as paying a fee for them to sleep in a kennel outside the car. Don’t forget to review ticket policies before booking as well. Many require proof of current rabies shot and travel documents. Lastly, be sure to respect fellow passengers by only allowing your pet out of their carrier in specified areas with prior permission from staff on board.
By Road
Taking your pup along on a road trip is easier but just as important to plan ahead. Check pet policies such as a motel, motel room, and even campsite queries before leaving in order to avoid surprises when you reach your destination. Depending on the climate of your destination and how long you will be there, double-check vaccination and food to make sure it’s travel-friendly. Always keep pets in confined areas either inside the car or outside with access to shade and water. Keeping your pup close helps avoid any distractions while driving, which should always be avoided for safety reasons.
Identification Tags on Collar and Crate
Remember to put an identification tag on your pup’s collar. Additionally, if you plan on crating your pup, make sure to add a label with their names and contact information so you can be easily contacted in case they get lost. Having the vet’s contact information is also a good idea in case of medical emergencies.
Take your dog for a health check
Before setting out on a road trip or boarding your pup for a flight, it’s important to make sure your pet is in good health for the journey. Visit your vet for a health checkup and get paperwork verifying that all their vaccinations are up-to-date. This will help you avoid any medical issues while exploring and allow you to travel with peace of mind.
Vaccinations are the key to a safe holiday with your pup. Make sure to get all the necessary shots, including rabies, distemper, and Bordetella vaccines. Your vet may also recommend an additional tick and flea preventative as well as a heartworm tablet if you’re planning on being out in nature for several days. Keeping these basics up-to-date will help ensure that no matter where you go, your dog is protected from common infectious diseases.
Consult With Your Vet Before You Go
Before traveling with your dog, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to make sure your pup is healthy enough for the trip. Your vet will provide information on vaccinations and other health checks that should be done prior to travel. They can also advise you on any medical conditions or medications that your pup may need while on the road.
Advance Tips for travel spots
5 spots in the USA, made perfect for traveling with a dog.
Take a Road Trip in Arizona.
Arizona offers pet-friendly hotels and vast desert landscapes that beg to be explored. From Phoenix to Tucson and beyond, every corner of the state has something unique and exciting to offer, especially when traveling with a furry companion. Gas up your car and explore the extraordinary beauties of the Southwest – from grand canyons, towering pinyon pine forests, hidden coves and sandy beaches.
Spend an Animal-Friendly Weekend in Austin, TX.
Austin, TX is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the US. With beautiful parks, numerous off-leash areas and many pet shops, there’s plenty to explore and discover with your four-legged buddy. From boating on Lake Travis or Lady Bird Hike and Bike Trail downtown to kayaking on the Blanco River or Gnarly Gar Lake, you will find plenty of fun activities for both you and your dog.
Walk by the Sea in Pawtucket, RI.
Pawtucket, Rhode Island is one of the best pet-friendly destinations for an ocean stroll. Take your dog for a walk by the sea where you can cool off from the summer heat! Couples or families will enjoy walking along East Beach and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean on their beach. Make sure to bring a towel or blanket so your pup can have somewhere comfortable to rest after a tiring day at the beach.
Dog-Watching in Santa Monica, CA
Santa Monica, California is already well-known as a great destination for tourists, but families with pets in tow will find it even better. From the Santa Monica Pier to the Venice Boardwalk, and from Muscle Beach to Dogtown and Z-Boys Skatepark, there’s an unparalleled variety of outdoor activities for you and your pup (and a great people watching location too!). Make sure to grab some pup-friendly snacks like doggy ice cream cafes or bakeries before heading off on this adventure.
Socially Distanced Camping at the Grand Canyon
Whether you want to explore the national park or try a cabins or glamping experience, there are plenty of pet-friendly options that allow you to enjoy the American Dream from Arizona. There’s nothing like the magnificent views of the Grand Canyon with your pup at your side. Plus, with camping being one of the top social distancing activities during these times – what better way could there be to experience it?
Conclusion
In conclusion, traveling with your dog on holiday can be a truly rewarding experience when planned properly. Remember to research destinations and hotels that are pet-friendly, get your pet all the necessary vaccinations before you travel, bring adequate supplies such as food and toys, be prepared to deal with any emergency while on the road, create a smart plan for socializing your pup while traveling and book ahead of time if necessary. With these tips in mind, you should have no trouble embarking on an amazing journey with your canine companion!
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