Here’s 15 travel tips for pet owners that need a travel partner. If you’re thinking about going somewhere, but don’t want to go alone, bring your dog. If you’re waiting for someone to travel with, take your dog!
Don’t wait for them to agree to go on that long-awaited baecation, go with your pup. Traveling alone can be scary for some, but imagine taking your pet on a trip. They’ve already proved to be a great companion to you, why not see if they’re a great travel partner? Realistically, they’re also an added weapon of self-defense. Constantly alert and ready to defend, bringing your dog for your travel partner could really be a smart choice.
The logistics of taking your dog on your next vacation are generally quite simple. Road trips, for example, would only require you to get all of the things ready for your pup and put them in the car. Consider motion sickness. Plan breaks for walks and water. Airlines, hotels and overseas travel can be a bit more complex. Don’t worry though, we have you covered!
Travel tips for pet owners include things you need to know about planning, what you should expect when you arrive and how to gain the most enjoyment from taking your pet with you. For more tips on pet travel and solo travel, visit @sailing_dipity on Instagram.
Find the pet-friendliest hotels
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Always go pet-friendly when it comes to the hotel. There are a plethora of options, but if you’re looking for a no-fail option, try W Hotels. They are all pet-friendly and really pet focused. They will greet your pet by name upon arrival. Bowls and a bed are in the room when you arrive. The list of W Hotels is plenty too, so you and your fur baby will always feel at home when away from home.
Pet fees
Not many pet-friendly hotels let you bring your fur baby without paying pet fees. Daily fees or a standard fee for the entire stay is normal. Some are more reasonable than others, so do the research.
Pet-centric amenities
Some cities in the world are much more open to pets than others. Paris, Seattle and Rome top the list of most pet friendly. Here, you can expect to find more than just pet friendly hotels. Your pet will offered royal treatment with bowls, beds, leashes and more.
Plan some pet friendly activities
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Dog walkers and day spas might interest your pup. Hiking, dog parks, beach days or even a restaurant with a menu just for your furry buddy can be added to the list of activities. Just be sure some of the activities that you plan include, or are focused on, your pup.
Pack a diaper bag for your doggie
Portable bowls, extra food, water and a blanket are the bare essentials. A kennel, treats, toys and clothes could make the doggie diaper bag complete.
Bring the shot records
Always bring your pups shot records with you when bringing your dog on vacation. Just in case there’s a pet groomer you just HAVE to use, or there’s an emergency. Shot records are always helpful.
Going overseas? Do this!
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Since we’re on the subject of paperwork, let’s talk about taking pets overseas, or anywhere out of your home country. While it seems like it’s a complicated process, it generally isn’t.
Most of the vaccinations your pet already gets are enough for them to get into the country. Sometimes, there will be a need for an extra immunization so be sure to do your research. Then, bring your pet to a vet that can verify the pet’s health a few days before the trip.
That’s generally it. Take your pet through Customs and have them checked into the country with you. Easy peasy!
Microchip or tracker?
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Microchip or tracker? Well, both! They do two different things. The microchip tells others information about you, the owner. The other actually tracks your pet’s location and goes on a collar.
Offer water often
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For many, going on vacation means it’s time to be active. More active than usual. Offer your pup water often. They are being more active too!
Give your dog time to rest
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Feel free to plan activities that don’t include your pet. Take your dog to doggy daycare, or check with your hotel about leaving your dog unattended. Traveling for the first time and entering a new environment could take a toll on your pup. Plus, dogs are known to sleep up to 18 hours a day. Have a good time and let your pup have one too… in bed!
Fly direct
Take a straight shot when flying to your travel destination. Adding a layover can disrupt your pet’s normal routine and stress them out. Plus, for dog’s traveling in the cargo portion of the plane, there’s less of a chance of them getting too hot or too cold.
Tell the airlines you're bringing a dog
After making your reservation, call the airline and let them know you’ll be bringing a pet onboard. Each airline has different rules about how it works, so always check when traveling with a new airline. Usually a carrier and a fee are accessed. Smaller pets travel in cabin and larger pets travel in cargo. If you’re in a pinch, you can do it at check-in, but this author doesn’t recommend it. The staff is much nicer when they know ahead of time.
Plan potty breaks
On the way to your travel destination, plan for potty breaks. There are pet relief areas in most airport terminals. Rest areas are great when taking a road trip.
Consider skipping their meal the day of travel
Consider skipping Fido’s meal the day of travel. Veterinarians recommend this technique because pet’s too can become anxious before (and during) travel, causing an upset stomach.
Leave your buddy at home
Sometimes, you just have to leave your fur buddy at home alone. After nine years of traveling with her dog, the author has recently made the decision to leave him behind for the next trip. Consider your travel wants along with your dog’s age and state of health. Sometimes, even the country you’re visiting doesn’t accept dogs. Or, you want to go on a water-centric vacation, but your pup is terrified of water. It’s okay to travel without them and really travel solo too!