How to Vacation With a Pet

Pets are part of the family, and many families are finding that they don't want to leave their pet behind when vacationing. Today, more hotel chains and vacation spots are pet-friendly. If you do your research and plan ahead, your vacation with Fido can be enjoyable.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• List of pet-friendly hotels
• Inoculation records
• Pet's toys and bedding
• Water

1. Prepare your pet for traveling. Before taking a long trip in a car or on a plane, you need to prepare your pet by taking short trips. This is a chance to find out if your pet gets sick while traveling. Your vet will recommend medication. Some consider Benadryl or Dramamine.

2. Check out hotels that are pet-friendly. A number of websites list hotel chains that accept pets such as Embassy Suites and Motel 6.

3. Bring along your pet's records. If your pet gets sick, you want your pet's history, any medication, and inoculation records.

4. Don't forget your pet's toys and bedding. Your pet needs to be surrounded by familiar objects and smells.

5. Always bring water. If you are traveling by car, make sure you have plenty of water for your pet. Stop every two hours for bathroom breaks and give your pet a chance to move around. For cats, bring along a kitty pan, if you will be traveling for a long time.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your pet in a carrier. If you have a large dog, use a seat belt restraint.
• Never leave your pet alone for long periods of time when vacationing. There are pet sitters available.

Resources

• Pet Friendly Travel Website