Can’t stand the look your pup gives you while you pack your suitcase for an upcoming trip? Wish you could take him or her along? You can! In some cases, that is. Check out our handy “Have Pet, Will Travel Guide” to make traveling with your furry friend as easy and breezy as possible.
Your trip will most likely start in the car, once you step out of the front door, so take these auto incidentals into account:
Health first.
If your pet is close to needing a check-up, be sure to see your vet first for the all-clear. And if he or she requires medication on a regular basis, be sure you have enough to take with you. It may also be helpful to have a copy of his or her medical records on hand should you run into an emergency and need them.
Safe & Secure.
How will your pet travel while in the vehicle? Be sure that he or she is secure should you need to make sudden stops. That could mean a crate or even a special passenger pet seat.
Identification Information.
If your pet were to get away from you, what would help to reunite you? Take worst case scenarios into account and be sure he or she is microchipped and has an ID tag with your current contact information.
Hands and Arms Inside.
While your pet may love to hang his or her head outside the window, it’s dangerous. Their eyes are susceptible to flying debris that could cause injury. Also take the temperature into account. Never, ever leave an animal inside a hot vehicle. It’s actually illegal in many states.
Plan pit stops.
You’ll want to have food and water along, which equals potty breaks. And, hey, pets need a good leg stretch here and there, too.
Keep them comfy.
Just like us, pets enjoy comfort items too. Bring along their favorite beds and blankets to help keep them content.
Checking In
If a pet-friendly hotel stay is in the cards, be sure to do your research for one in advance. Not all accommodations allow for pets, and those that do often charge a deposit you’ll want to factor into your budget. Each site may have different rules for pet owners to abide by as well. Be sure to inquire as to what those may be. Some other hotel tips to keep in mind:
Request a ground level room near an exit.
You’ll need to schedule time for potty and exercise trips, and this will make things more convenient.
Pet spaces.
See if there are designated areas for relieving your pet and for exercise as well. And remember: a well exercised pet is often a more relaxed and better-behaved pet.
Alone time.
Does the hotel allow you to leave your pet in the room unattended? Many do not. If they do, you should limit the amount of time in which you do so. After all, you’re vacationing with your pet for a reason, right?
Prepare for the worst.
Even a well-trained pet may have accidents when in an unfamiliar environment. Bring along supplies you’d need and use at home to clean up if necessary. You will want to treat the property with respect.
Dining Out
Want your friend to accompany you to a pet-friendly spot for dinner? Make sure to heed these tips for a successful dining experience:
Start small.
First try a coffee house or quick dining spot to get a feel for if your pet is suited for dining out.
1 pet per person.
A 1-on-1 ratio here is key to limit chaos. It may be helpful to bring a friend along to help manage your pet on the first couple of outings.
Potty first.
Before stepping into/onto the property, be sure to have your pet relieve itself and also burn off excess energy.
Bring water.
A portable water bowl can be helpful.
Be courteous.
Practice proper table manners – both of you. And be respectful of those dining around you.
Travel Check List
ο Veterinary records
ο ID tag
ο Collar/leash/harness
ο Food/bowl/water/dish
ο Bed/blanket
ο Favorite toys
5 Vacation Getaways to Consider
Woodsy Wonder.
The Lodge at Glendorn in Bradford, Pa., welcomes well behaved pets and encourages you to explore its wooded trails and paths when not lounging in your cabin by the fireplace. It’s a top-notch experience. In 2016, the property was named the No. 1 Resort Hotel in the Continental U.S. as part of Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. glendorn.com
Fabulous for Fido.
Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, Va., pampers both people and pets. In-room canine amenities include food and water bowls, organic treats, a comfy bed, a special toy and waste bags. Onsite dog-sitting can also be arranged, and between early June and late October on Tuesdays, your dog can even enjoy “Yappy Hour” complete with drinks, snacks and dog treats. salamanderresort.com
Awesome in Arizona.
Head west to the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch in Arizona. You may be greeted by doggie ambassador, Uno. Here, Fido and Fluffy are also treated to a special 4 paws “beastro” menu with reasonably priced options like chicken risotto, veggie bruschetta and organic dry dog food. For an extra special treat, “pupcakes” (frosted carrot cupcakes) are also available. scottsdale.regency.hyatt.com
The Marvelous Muse.
Bright lights, big city can be big fun for pets too, especially at The Muse, NYC. Animal companions can visit at no extra charge and without size or weight restrictions. Believe it or not, The Muse has hosted penguins, snakes and more. The boutique property offers a special Pampered Pooch and a Hers and Furs package which provides in-room pedicures for a guest and her dog. Pets also receive a special welcome package with food and treats for both the dogs and their human friends. themusehotel.com
Relaxing Retreat.
For the pet looking to wind down, head to Topnotch Resort in Stowe, VT. Here, if your dog gets sore after hiking, you can book him or her a Rover Reiki massage treatment followed by a restful nap on a fleece-wrapped AeroBed. Dogs get an organic Mini-Bone treat in flavors like bacon and cheddar, liver and bacon, and carob-chip oatmeal, as well as a keepsake water bowl to remember the experience. Can we sign up too? topnotchresort.com
