It’s always fun to go on vacation with your family, including your pup. But if you don’t know what to expect, going on vacation with your dog can be a real doozy. Before you take off, make sure to avoid these common mistakes!
Forgetting to call ahead
When traveling, check the pet policies for airlines, hotels, and whatever other forms of transportation you may be using. You may need to provide proof of vaccinations, so bring those papers with you just in case! And don’t forget to check with your destination, too! (Did you know you can’t take a dog from California to Hawaii without them being quarantined?!)
Leaving the crate at home
Many hotels, while pet-friendly, have strict guidelines and policies for doggie guests. For example, some hotels do not allow dogs to roam free unattended in the hotel room due to potential interactions with the staff and also to prevent damage to the room. It’s always best to bring a crate just in case.
Sedating your pooch
It might be tempting to give your pet a relaxant to help them stay calm during travel, but these medications can often backfire and create anxiety. Unless instructed by a vet, keep your pet relaxed by staying calm and bringing along their favorite toys. Another tip: avoid treats, food, and water while traveling. This will make your dog uncomfortable because they’ll need to use the bathroom!
Assuming it will be cheaper
Dogs cost extra. One-way flights cost $150 – even if your dog is sitting under your seat. Hotels usually have a non-refundable pet deposit ranging from $50 to $350. In addition, if you are planning on sightseeing in areas where dogs are not allowed, you may need to find a local pet sitter or daycare since many hotels won’t let your dog hang out in the hotel room unattended.
Skipping your dog’s exercise routine
Even though you are on vacation, your pup still needs to be walked and exercised daily. If you won’t have time to exercise your dog, hire a local dog walker to help you or maybe consider leaving your dog at home at a daycare facility or with a friend.
Traveling is not for every dog
Not all dogs are suited for traveling. To increase safety measures, many airlines have recently changed their policies on how animals can travel. If you’re still deciding whether your dog should come along on your next big adventure, read this article.
If for some reason you can’t vacation with your dog, bring them on over to Fitdog – we’d love to have them!
Post updated May 27, 2019.