How to Tackle the Challenges of Taking Your Dog On a Vacation
Did you know that out of the 90.5 million homes with a pet dog, 78% travel with their furry companion every year? There's no other joy like the open road, the wind in your hair, and your loyal companion by your side, tongue lolling out in pure bliss. This is why 58% of pet owners prefer to travel with their furry friend rather than a friend or family member.
However, while the experience could be extremely rewarding, it’s not always sunshine and tail wags. Traveling with your dog requires meticulous planning and navigating challenges. In this article, we will discuss essential steps to ensure a smooth and enriching journey for you and your canine friend.
1. Planning and Prepping for the Vacation
According to a nationwide survey, 45% of pet owners don’t take their dogs to the veterinarian because of the cost. However, a vet visit is crucial before you hit the road with your furry friend. A vet will tell you whether your dog can travel, inform you about health concerns specific to your destination, and give you appropriate medications.
Remember, several destinations and accommodations require you to date your dog's vaccination and health tracking card. If you are traveling back to the U.S. with a new pet, it must be microchipped. Look up other such regulations online to avoid any mishaps.
Next, look up pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and activities at the destination. Check pet policies and restrictions, such as size or breed limitations, to prevent surprises upon arrival. Lastly, prepare a travel kit for your pet. Pack enough food, bowls, a leash, a collar with tags, medications, toys, bedding, and, most importantly, waste management tools.
2. Pet-Friendly Hotels and Accommodations
If you don’t plan to sleep in the car or on the street with your dog, it’s advisable to research and look up pet-friendly hotels and accommodations wherever you are heading. Finding the right accommodation can be the difference between relaxing and stressful vacations.
Look up pet-friendly hotels, Airbnb, vacation rentals, or campgrounds in your destinations. Once you find appropriate options, compare tariffs, amenities, pet fees, and any restrictions on size, breed, or number of pets allowed. After zeroing down on your options, choose the one that fits your pet’s requirements the best.
According to the American Kennel Club, around 75% of hotels in the U.S. now allow pets. Therefore, finding a relaxing stay for your puppy shouldn’t be hard. However, once you arrive, prepare the space for your dog. Bring bedding, blankets, and favorite toys to create a familiar and comfortable space.
3. Proper Waste Management Planning
Most states in the U.S. have strict pooper scooper laws in place with serious fines. This is important because not only is it bad for the health but also for the environment to leave the dog poop unattended. As noted by Scoop Soldiers, dog waste harbors harmful bacteria.
New York City was the first to implement the pooper scooper law back in 1978. And today, you may end up paying as much as $2,000 in fines for letting your dog poop in the street and not scooping it up.
Therefore, it is crucial to pack proper tools if you don’t want to spend your vacation budget on fines. There are dog poop scoopers with poop bag attachments, which let pet parents pick and pack the poop without even bending down. Consider adding poop bags (scented, if you must) and a scooper to the travel kit.
Additionally, you should look for hotels with commercial dog waste removal services mentioned as one of the amenities. This means that you need not worry about pet waste disposal during your vacation. These hotels have waste stations installed and maintained by professionals. They collect and discard the waste responsibly. All you have to do is to clean up after your furry friend and drop the droppings in these waste stations.
4. On-The-Go Care for Your Dog
When on vacation, try to stick to your dog’s regular routine as much as possible. Stick to the usual feeding, walking, and playtime schedule to reduce stress or anxiety. A routine that your dog is familiar with will help them adjust quickly to the new environment.
Additionally, be a responsible pet parent and keep your dog on a leash in public areas. Follow the local regulations regarding pets and clean up promptly after them to show respect to the residents.
Traveling with your dog can be an enriching experience that will further solidify your bond with your loyal companion. Keeping the tips mentioned in this article ensures you and your dog enjoy the trip. The additional planning and preparation are worth the experience you will offer your dog.