How to Travel With Your Dog

If you cringe at the idea of boarding your dog when you go on vacation, why not bring him along? Many hotels and vacation properties allow dogs to stay. With a little extra research, care and patience, your dog will have as much fun traveling as you do.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Dog food
• Bottled Water
• Food and water bowls
• Leash and collar
• Identification and license tags
• Favorite dog toys and blanket
• Any prescription medication in its original bottle
• Dog crate or kennel (if your dog is accustomed to this)

1. Make sure the place you are staying allows dogs. Call ahead to discuss any rules they have for pets, or any damage deposit you may have to leave.
2. Pack for your dog as thoughtfully as you would for yourself. Be sure to bring along her food, water, bowls, favorite toys, blanket and any prescription medication she might be on. If she isn't already wearing a collar with identification and license tags, be sure to put it on her. She should also wear her leash any time she is not in the hotel room. Consider getting your dog an identification microchip if she doesn't already have one.
3. Your dog may be sensitive to a change in water, even if you aren't traveling that far away. Let him drink bottled water while you are on vacation. If you are taking an extended trip, you can gradually introduce safe local water to him by mixing a little of it with his bottled water. In time he will adjust and be able to drink the local tap water without a problem.
4. Until she is comfortable in her new surroundings, your dog needs you to be around. On the first day of your vacation, plan to bring her with you any time you leave the hotel room. This might mean ordering a take out dinner to eat in the room the first night. Once your dog is comfortable and feeling secure that she will not be abandoned, you will be able to go places without her, just as you do at home.
5. Find wonderful adventures to share with your dog. While dogs are not allowed at all the attractions you will see on vacation, there are so many places you can include him. He may enjoy a run on the beach with you at sunrise, or an evening walk in the woods. Often outdoor cafes will allow you to sit with your dog. You can bring some dog treats for him, or maybe allow him to share a bit of vanilla ice cream with you. Whatever you and your friend do together, make sure to never leave him alone in a car, not even for a few minutes.
6. Be prepared for accidents and extra trips outside. Your dog may be very well trained, but in a new place she may be a little confused about what is expected. If she has an accident, don't scold her. Take her outside right away and show her where she is supposed to relieve herself. You may also find that she needs to go out more often and at odd times. While it is no fun to be awakened in the middle of the night for a trip outside, your dog will soon adjust to her new routine and become more predictable in her schedule.