Are you planning a getaway this year? Do you plan to take your pet with you or hire a pet sitter? If you are bringing your pet along, the tips below might help!

Why bring your dog when you travel?

Thanks to the growing number of pet-friendly accommodation providers, it is now easier than ever to take your fur baby with you when your travel. Ensuring your pet remains safe and comfortable is easy if you take a few precautions ahead of time. 

First things first, collars or tags

Make sure your contact information is up to date and clearly readable on your dog's tag or if you have a personalized dog collar with embroidery or printed customization, make sure you can be reached at the number on the tag.  If you aren't sure what to include on your dog's collar, we have a great article for you.

Keep Your Dog Safe and Comfortable in the Car

Many states now require that your dog be in a carrier, car seat, or tethered via seatbelt for the safety of your dog and others in the car.  Make sure you have the correct equipment and if you are using a pet carrier, make sure there is padding and no rough spots or anything that might make your dog uncomfortable.  If you aren't sure what is required where you live or in the states you will drive through, you can check for seatbelt laws on this page.

Plan for more frequent rest stops so that your dog can potty, stretch their legs, or just have a good sniff and a sip of water.  Even if your dog can "hold it", remember they are used to being free to roam, so just a brisk walk will help burn some energy so that the ride is peaceful.

Tips for flying with a dog

Make sure you book in advance and know your airline's policies for pets traveling via airplane.  Most airlines limit the number of pets per flight and the pet needs to be able to fit into a soft sided carrier that goes under the seat.

Many airlines have prohibited cargo area travel, especially in the coldest and hottest seasons, as many dogs don't do well in the cargo area where the air is not heated or cooled and there is no cabin pressurization to make sure they can breathe comfortably.

Bring all vaccination records in case you need to show them for any reason and make sure your pet's ID is up to date with information about how to reach you while traveling.

Make sure the carrier is comfortable for your pet for the duration of the flight, as most airlines require they stay in the carrier the entire time.  

Choose Pet-Friendly Places to Stay

Some newer hotels are proud to offer pet friendly accommodations.  If you've ever stayed at a Kimpton Hotel, you will know that they have a room service menu just for dogs!  Others have special play/walk/run areas or might welcome your pet with a treat.

With AirBnB and VRBO available as options, you can also search for pet friendly stays and find homes that welcome pets.

No matter where you stay, be a responsible pet person and pick up after your dog, don't leave messes or let your dog destroy anything, and try to keep things nice for everybody.  If you have a dog that might bark when you are out of the room, try to use enrichment toys to keep them busy, or take them with you.

Help Your Dog Adjust to New Environments

To go along with what we said above, bring some comfort items from home - like a well loved toy or blanket so that your dog associates the temporary "digs" with the smell and comfort of home.  You can also leave one of your used t-shirts with your pet if you need to leave them alone in the room for any reason.

Keep the same routine as much as possible, with feeding and walk times staying constant no matter what timezone you are in or what state you are in.  

If your pet seems "spooked" by something in the room (a scary lamp or a mirror that they can see themselves in) limit exposure until they get more comfortable.  Sprinkle in treats so that they associate the object with rewards rather than just fear.

Final Thoughts:  Travel Smart with your dog

Traveling with your furry family member is easier now than it ever has been with so many pet friendly accommodations, restaurants, and places to go.  Just make sure you plan ahead so that there are no surprises, keep everyone safe, and make sure their vet records and identification (including their collar and/or pet ID tag) are up to date.