How to Take Pets on Beach Vacations

Your pet is an important part of your family, so it's natural you want to take them along on vacation. It's often harder to imagine them in a kennel or stuck at home without company. More beach hotels and condos are accepting pets. The challenge is often finding them. Follow these steps to learn how to take your pet on a beach vacation.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look for hotels or beach condos that allow pets. Many search engines online allow you to choose pet-friendly as an option. You can also ask a travel agent to assist you.

2. Use pet friendly websites to find hotels and other accommodations for you and your pet. There are some websites devoted entirely to helping you find pet-friendly vacations.

3. Ask the Convention and Visitors Bureau in the beach town for help. They may be able to suggest pet-friendly places to stay.

4. Find out if the beach you're going to allows pets. Some beaches ban them completely. Others allow them after certain hours. Ask the Convention and Visitors Bureau for the rules.

5. Find a pet sitter or doggie day care in the area. Start by looking in the yellow pages. You can also call a pet store and ask for recommendations.

6. Identify where the closest veterinarian is located. It's good to know in case something happens.

7. Pack everything your pet will need including food, treats and toys.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring plastic bags to pick up your dog's waste.
• Bring your pet's veterinarian documents with you when traveling.
• Make sure your dog is wearing an ID collar if she's not micro chipped.
• Pack an extra leash in case one goes missing.

Resources

• Pet-friendly Hilton Head rental
• Search for pet friendly hotels
• Find pet-friendly places in Myrtle Beach