When the time comes to take a family vacation, you need to decide what to do with your dog. Some choose to board theirs in kennels, others have someone pet-sit in their home, but the option most go for is bringing their furry friend along. Human or not, your dog is still a member of your family after all. In recent years, traveling with your pooch has become easier than ever, but there are still struggles to face. For a stress-free vacation, here are six tips you should know.
- Speak To a Vet
While you’re away, your dog is going to come into contact with a lot of other animals. For this reason, you should ensure that they are protected against fleas, ticks, and worms. Depending on the destination you are visiting, your pet may require additional vaccinations too. Make sure that you book an appointment with your vet for a check-up and any medications your dog may need.
- Figure Out Your Itinerary
The decision to bring your dog is going to have a big impact on your trip. You won’t be able to head for a meal or indulge in a fun activity unless the places you visit are pet friendly. To ensure that everyone has the best time possible, you should prepare for this by researching restaurants, beaches, and facilities that allow dogs. You can also find a pet-sitter, just in case you need one.
- Pick The Right Accommodation
When you start hunting for somewhere to stay, make sure that you only look at places that have pet-friendly rooms. These days, there are many available, like the Alberta Beach accommodations, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to find at least one suitable hotel or alternative accommodation where you’re heading. Just remember to read the policies before you book.
- Teach The Basic Training
Your hotel may advertise that they allow dogs, but they’re unlikely to let you stay there if your pet becomes unruly. Because of this, you must ensure that you teach your furry friend some basic training. At the very least, they should know how to sit, stay, and come, and should do so on command. This can sometimes take a while to perfect, so start teaching well before your trip.
- Always Travel by Car
Air travel is definitely possible with a dog, and, these days, is actually easier than ever. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s going to be particularly fun for your four-legged family member. Airlines tend to treat animals more like luggage than they do living creatures, so whenever possible, you should travel by car. This is more comfortable for your pet and lets you stop when needed.
- Prepare For an Emergency
Though you would probably rather not think about it, there is a lot that could go wrong while on vacation with your dog. They could make a mess in the hotel room, for example, get sick or injured, or even run away. To minimize the stress of such issues, you should prepare for them now by finding a nearby vet, packing cleaning products, and getting your pet microchipped.
Traveling with a dog comes with its challenges, but, if you do it right, it can be a lot of fun too.
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