Ready to escape your daily routine by exploring a new city, going on adventures, and also squeezing in some R&R? Oh, a vacation sounds incredible! For many people, though, the thought of leaving their furry family members behind can dampen their spirits. Some good news: Planning a dog-friendly vacation has never been easier! With a little extra preparation, you can enjoy an unforgettable adventure with your canine companion by your side. So, grab a leash, pack some treats, and let’s explore the world of dog-friendly travel together!
1. Research Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations
Whenever you plan a vacation, the first step is to decide where you’re going. Well, if Fido is tagging along, this initial step will require a bit more research time, thought, and consideration. With a list of potential destinations in mind, research dog-friendly attractions, parks, beaches, hiking trails, and breweries/eateries in each city. When looking at things to do, prioritize your activity preferences and your dog’s energy level. After all, you’ll need a destination that caters to both of you. Looking for a place to get started? I recently published an article featuring 10 dog-friendly vacation spots in the US.
2. Create an Itinerary (& Don’t Forget About Dining)
There are two types of people when it comes to vacations. First, you have the travelers who are hyper-organized and plan out every little detail. These people pre-book activities, make restaurant reservations, and may even know what they’re eating at said restaurants. Then, there are the people who prefer to go with the flow. They know where they’re going, but they’ll figure the rest out once they reach their destination. Which one are you? Regardless of your usual vacation habits, for dog-filled trips, I highly recommend creating a full itinerary. Think about where you’re eating, what you’re doing, and downtime for each day. For help creating your itinerary, check out BringFido. It’s a top pet travel app that will assist you in finding pet-friendly hotels, parks, beaches, or other attractions while on vacation. It features over 500,000 places to stay, play, and eat with your dog. This is a great travel resource for you and your fur baby, and its service is global.
3. Choose Dog-Friendly Accommodations
When away, you’ll need a place to stay. Look for hotels, vacation rentals, or campgrounds that explicitly welcome pets. I cannot stress this enough: Never sneak your furry family member into a hotel or vacation rental. Truly, you may not get caught. But why risk getting thrown out? Ask if there are any extra pet fees. Plus, find out if any required pet deposits are refundable or non-refundable. You don’t want any surprises when you check-in. For more on this topic, check out THIS article featuring 12 pet-friendly hotel etiquette tips.
4. Plan for Transportation
- Your Car: Think of safety! Secure your pup by using some sort of pet restraint, such as a booster seat, pet seatbelt, or crate. Pack essentials, like fresh water, food, treats, toys, waste bags, and cleaning supplies (in case your pup gets carsick or has an accident).
- Rental Car: Most rental car companies do allow dogs. However, if you’re securing a rental car for your vacation, don’t assume anything. Always call the company and the exact location to ensure your canine companion is good to go!
- Flying: Before booking your plane tickets, research the airline’s pet rules. Different airlines have specific rules regarding the number of pets per flight, crate size, health documentation, and fees. To avoid issues at check-in, ensure you comply with the airline’s regulations. In THIS article, I share my experience flying with my dog!
- Amtrak: If you’re traveling by train, Amtrak does welcome dogs (with restrictions). Their website states “Dogs and cats up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) are welcome on trips up to seven hours on most routes”. But make sure to book early because their website also says there’s a maximum of five pets per train. Find out more on their website HERE.
5. Packing Essentials for Your Dog
Just like you bring clothes, hygiene products, and other essentials on vacation, don’t forget to pack a bag for your dog. Include food, treats, medications, and their favorite toys. If your dog is particularly fond of a blanket or other item, bring it! Dogs thrive on consistency, so offering the smell of home while away may be comforting to your pooch. Also, don’t forget to bring waste bags for clean-up during walks and outings. It’s also a good idea to carry a pet first-aid kit in case of any minor injuries or emergencies. I share a list of pet first aid kit essentials HERE. Additionally, bring copies of your dog’s vaccination records and identification tags, including your contact information.
6. Get a Last-Minute Health Check
Speaking of vaccination records, before your trip, schedule a visit to see your veterinarian. Along with a last-minute check-up to assess your dog’s overall health, make sure to obtain a copy of their health records. Airlines or hotels may ask for these, so it’s good to have a copy on hand. While you’re with your vet, it’s also a good time to discuss preventive measures against ticks, fleas, and heartworms, particularly if you’re traveling to an area with a higher risk. If you prefer natural preventatives, ask about those options.
7. Respect Local Rules
While traveling, it’s important to respect local dog rules and ordinances. Always keep your dog on a leash unless in designated off-leash areas, clean up after them, and be mindful of other visitors. If you’re planning a beach vacation, make sure dogs are allowed at all times of the day (or visit during pet-friendly hours). This will help ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.
8. Allow for Downtime and Remain Mindful of Routines
Your dog-filled vacation is bound to be filled with adventure and excitement. But, don’t forget about downtime. Your dog needs rest … and you do too! Plus, try to keep your pup’s feeding and medication schedules on their normal routine.
