When it comes to family vacations, our pets are usually left out of the fun and need to stay with relatives or pet services that will look after them. As of late, more and more families are starting to plan ahead for their vacation so they can bring their pets instead. It can be quite stressful bringing your dog or even a cat along for the ride. However, it’s a great way to keep your pets happy and help them discover new things in the world. It’s also one of the best ways to help your pet deal with anxiety when you’re not around.

Having your pet with you while you travel is a great feeling, but you do still need to look after them and there are a couple of important concerns to keep in mind. In this post, we will be looking at some essential tips when traveling with your pets to help you keep them safe.

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Driving With Your Dog in the Car

If you’re planning on driving to your destination then make sure you follow these simple steps to ensure your dog’s safety.

Dogs should not be roaming around the car. Make sure your dog is in a crate that has been anchored to the vehicle to secure it or make sure they are buckled into their traveling harness.
Don't allow your dog to poke their head out of the window. You have probably seen it in photographs and it can look cool, but it is actually dangerous to your pup.
If possible, assign someone to look after your dog when they are in the car.
Never leave your dog alone in the car! Either leave someone with the car so they can look after your dog or take them with you.
Take plenty of breaks so your dog gets a chance to stretch his/her legs and use up some of their energy.

Accommodations For Your Dog

The last thing you want is to arrive at the hotel you have booked and be told that you are not allowed to bring pets in. While most hotels nowadays are somewhat accommodating to pets, it is a much better idea to look for pet friendly vacation rentals before you travel out to your destination. This will ensure that your dog has a place to stay and it will simplify things a lot. Make sure there are also local stores that offer pet-related supplies should you run out.

If you are unsure if the accommodation allows pets, don’t hesitate to contact them to ask. While some rentals don’t specifically state they are pet-friendly, they might be willing to make an exception for your case.

Traveling by Plane With Your Dog

Air travel can be quite dangerous for pets which is why most people suggest looking for alternatives to flying. Your dog will be healthier and likely happier by just staying home in the care of someone else. If you absolutely need to travel by air with your dog, then make sure you contact the airline well in advance and follow their guidance to keep your dog safe.

It can be quite stressful bringing your dog on vacation, but we hope these tips have helped you and your dog travel happier, hopefully together!

Essential Safety Tips When Traveling With Your Dog