Travel blogs make pet travel seem like an elegant breeze. The reality is, not all pets are suited for big journeys. There is so much to consider when bringing your dog on vacation. If you’re considering taking your best friend on your next trip, ask yourself these questions to find out if your dog will make a good travel buddy or not.
via @itsdougthepug on Instagram
Is the journey pet-friendly?
Long distance travel can be difficult for puppies as well as elderly dogs who may not be up for the rigors of travel. If your dog has a short snout or has to travel as cargo, you may have to rule out flying altogether. However, if you have a happy-go-lucky pup that doesn’t get car sick, then your 6-hour car ride to Mammoth will be no problem. Wherever you are going and however you are getting there, make sure your dog is able to comfortably make the journey.
Will my dog enjoy themselves?
Are you going to spend most of your time indoors, at museums, and restaurants? Or, will you be doing outdoor sightseeing, perhaps hiking or camping? Will there be family members to play with your pup? Or would your dog be mostly kept in a hotel room? Ultimately, will your vacation be as fun for your dog as it will be for you?
Is the destination pet-friendly?
Imagine pulling up to the monument or landmark that you’ve been planning to see for months only to find out that they don’t allow dogs. Or better yet, you planned a camping trip but the national park doesn’t allow dogs in the park. Avoid the frustration by doing some research before you go. Make a list of the “must-see” places for your particular destination and find out whether those places allow dogs. If too many spots are off limits for your dog, you may want to reconsider if taking them is a good idea.
Can I maintain my dog’s routine?
The big perk about boarding your dog is that they have a routine and receive regular feedings, exercise, and bathroom breaks. Taking your dog means that you now need to carve time out for those things while you travel. Road tripping with a dog means taking frequent stops for potty breaks while your dog or hoping your dog will hold their business for the duration of a flight. Ask yourself: how much time will I have to meet my dog’s basic needs?
Are there pet-friendly accommodations?
Your dog may be welcomed back home over the holidays but maybe not in most hotels in New York City. You want to make sure your dog will have a place to lay its head while you’re on vacation. When you do find a pet-friendly hotel, read the fine print. There may be breed and size restrictions, pet deposits, and rules about keeping your dog in the room alone.
Bringing your dog on vacation or leaving them behind is always a tough decision. Hopefully these questions help narrow down which option is best for your dog on your next trip.