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Traveling with your dog can be a fun experience if you plan ahead. Whether you’re planning a quick road trip or an international flight, having your dog with you can make the journey much more enjoyable. To help you plan your trip and make the best out of it, here are 7 essential steps, from planning to packing, to ensure a smooth trip for both you and your furry friend.
1. Plan Your Trip Properly
Research Your Destination
The first step in any trip is choosing your destination. Whether you’re going to a beach, mountain, or a fancy all-inclusive resort, when you’re traveling with your dog, you must ensure that your destination is dog-friendly. You want to avoid any last-minute surprises at all costs. So, before you select your destination, search online for ‘pet-friendly hotels in [location]’, ‘pet-friendly parks in [location]’, and ‘pet-friendly restaurants in [location]’ for example.
Make a list of all places you find and take them with you. I like to use my iPhone notes as everything is saved in the cloud and I know it will be available even if I have no internet access. The information I find most important are: name of the place, address to use on my GPS, and phone/contact information (if needed).
Tip: Websites like BringFido and GoPetFriendly are great for finding dog-friendly places and I use it all the time when traveling with my dogs.
Check Travel Restrictions
Keep in mind that different places have different rules for pets. Although the places may be dog-friendly, some hotels might have weight limits, while certain national parks may allow dogs in the park but not on specific trails or parts of the park. So, make sure to check these restrictions ahead of time to avoid surprises.
2. Visit The Vet Before Traveling With Your Dog
Schedule a Check-Up
Before any trip, I like to take my Maltese dogs to the vet for a quick check-up. This helps to ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations and that there are no health concerns. The last thing you want is to be on a remote location and have to take your dog to a random vet hospital because of an emergency. If you’re traveling by plane or going to an international location, you’ll have to get a health certificate, as airlines often require it.
Discuss Any Needed Medications
If your dog gets anxious or motion sick during travel, talk to your vet about possible medications or natural calming remedies. There are several natural options out there that can help your dog have a better experience in the car or in the plane. Also, ensure you have flea, tick, and heartworm prevention up to date. You don’t know what you’re going to find in this new place you’re traveling to, so it’s important your dogs are safe.
3. Pack Correctly When Traveling With Your Dog
Travel Crate
A sturdy, well-ventilated travel crate is a must. It provides a safe space for your dog and helps them feel secure. Most airlines have restrictions and requirements for the size and weight of the crate, so please check with your airline before acquiring a new one.
Comfort Items
Pack their favorite toys, blanket, and a piece of your clothing with your scent. These items are always helpful in soothing dogs when they’re in unfamiliar environments.
Food and Water
Bring enough of your dog’s regular food to last the entire trip and a bit extra in case your plane gets delayed or the car trip gets extended. Sudden changes in diet, or the introduction of new flavors can upset their stomach. Also, don’t forget portable water bowls and enough bottled water, as not all places have water available.
Identification
Ensure your dog is microchipped and wears a collar with an ID tag. Include your permanent contact information (name, address, and phone number) and any temporary address/information where you’ll be staying.
4. Do This The Day Of Your Trip
Exercise Before Departure
A tired dog is a calm dog. That’s so true when traveling with your dog. I like to give my Maltese a good walk or play session before leaving. 30 minutes is usually enough for them, but this will depend on the energy level of your dog. This exercise before traveling helps them burn off energy and be more relaxed and well-behaved during the trip.
Stick To Your Normal Routine
Stick to your dog’s regular feeding and bathroom schedule as much as possible. This familiarity helps reduce stress during the trip.
Frequent Breaks
If you’re driving, plan for regular breaks. Let your dog stretch their legs, hydrate, and do their necessities. Aim for a break every 2-3 hours at least. If you’re traveling by plane, this may not be possible, so try to either select flights with connections, choose shorter flights, or take a nighttime flight. Keeping a dog in an airplane for 8 hours when traveling internationally can be a challenge for them, but it’s possible. I have taken my older Maltese on an international trip, direct flight, that took almost 9 hours, and she behaved really well. I just made sure that she went potty right before we boarded the plane.
Most airports (if not all) have designated areas for dogs to alleviate themselves.
5. Air Travel Specifics
Choose a Pet-Friendly Airline
Research airlines and choose one that is known for being pet-friendly. Look for those that allow pets in the cabin rather than the cargo hold.
Know the Carrier Rules
To me, traveling with your dog in the cabin (with you) is the safest and best option for them, but each airline has specific rules about the size and type of carrier allowed in the cabin. They also account for the weight of your dog, so the total weight of your dog plus the carrier must be under the total weight the airline requires. This varies by airlines to airline, so it’s important to know these numbers before selecting a carrier.
Pre-Flight Prep
Arrive early at the airport to allow extra time for security checks. Have all necessary documents (health certificate and vaccination records) easily accessible as you may need to show them more than once.
6. Choosing A Pet-Friendly Hotel or Airbnb
Confirm Pet Policies
Even if a hotel or Airbnb is listed as pet-friendly, it’s worth calling ahead to confirm their pet policy. Most hotels that allow dogs require extra fees per night or per stay, and some Airbnb owners will have a set of rules that you must follow to avoid extra charges. These fees will normally be avoided if your dog is a service dog. It’s also worth checking if they have discounted fees for emotional support dogs.
Create a Safe Space in the Hotel Room or Airbnb
Once you arrive at the hotel or Airbnb, it’s important to set up a designated spot with their bed, toys, and water. This familiar setup will help your dog feel at home.
7. Best Practices for Traveling with Your Dog
Stay Calm and Positive
Although traveling with your dog can be frightening, try to stay calm. Following all the tips above ahead of time will help you feel confident and prepared. Remember! Dogs can sense your emotions. Staying calm and positive throughout the trip will help your dog feel secure.
Avoid Leaving Your Dog Alone
You’re already in an unfamiliar place, so everything is new for your dog. You are their point of reference, so try not to leave your dog alone during your trip. With the proper planning, and the list of parks, restaurants, and places you can enjoy with your dog at your fingertip, there shouldn’t be much reason to leave your dog alone at unfamiliar places.
If you must leave your dog alone, ensure they are in a safe and secure environment, or contact a local dog sitter to watch your dog for a few hours. One service that can help in situations like is, is Rover, and they are available nationwide (in the U.S). There may also be similar services internationally, so it’s worth doing some research online.
Monitor for Signs of Stress
Before, during, and after your trip, it’s important to watch for signs of stress, such as excessive panting, whining, or pacing. If your dog seems overly anxious, give them a break and lots of love and attention. When you return, if anything was concerning to you, it’s important talking to your vet so you can better prepare for your next trip.
Traveling with your dog can be an amazing experience! With careful planning, packing the right things, and keeping your dog’s comfort in mind, you can both have a great trip. Happy travels!
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