A bit of thinking ahead makes traveling with pooch hassle free and loads of fun.
Planning a well-deserved vacation? There’s no reason why your furry friend should miss out on the good times! Pets have never been more integrated into the family unit, and service providers have responded with a dramatic increase in dog-friendly travel options and amenities.
Whether you and pooch prefer to commune with the great outdoors or pamper yourselves with gourmet treats and high fashion, there’s an ideal vacation option for pup parents and fur babies alike.
Let’s go over some of the basic elements of planning a successful dog-friendly vacation:
- General travel tips
- Dog-friendly travel destinations
- Transportation
- Accommodation
Read on to get planning your perfect dog-friendly trip!
General Travel Tips
When traveling with pooch, planning is everything! The last thing you want is to rock up to a bucket-list activity only to discover that pup’s not allowed. Also, proper organization reduces stress levels during travel, and since dogs pick up on our emotions, that keeps them happier.
Since the pandemic, demand has increased for dog-friendly travel tips. Check out BringFido or PetsWelcome for in-depth articles and travel tools.
Travel Tip 1
Pick an itinerary that you and pooch will both adore. Do they love scrambling up mountains? Doggy paddling in the water? Or nibbling on bespoke treats at your feet on sunny restaurant patios? How does pooch do with crowds? With heat or cold? Maximize the bonding potential of your vacay by taking their interests into consideration.
Travel Tip 2
Schedule a pre-travel vet visit. Pooch should be in tip-top shape, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. Make sure to get prescriptions refilled if necessary.
Some destinations and transport companies have specific ID and medical documentation requirements. Research well in advance and plan your vet visits accordingly. Keep all documentation organized and accessible, including a recent photo of pooch with distinguishing features in case they get lost.
If pooch struggles with motion sickness or anxiety, the vet can advise you on how to keep them comfortable during travel. Treatments can range from prescription medication to yummy, naturally calming treats to wearables.
Travel Tip 3
Dogs are creatures of habit. Incorporating travel elements into pup’s routine from the safety of home reduces discomfort during the journey. Get the suitcases out, practice riding in the car, and have them spend time in carriers or crates. Reward good behavior with treats and praise!
Travel Tip 4
Call ahead! We’ll go into more detail later on, but for now, it is crucial to know the pet regulations of all transport companies, accommodations, restaurants, and activities well in advance to avoid unnecessary stress during your relaxation time.
Travel Tip 5
The regulations of many service providers distinguish between pets, service animals, and emotional support animals. Be sure to follow the rules that apply to you.
Travel Tip 6
Know when to leave pup home. Unfortunately, not all of our vacation plans are right for pup. Maybe we’re going too far away for too short a time or have a museum-heavy itinerary. Or maybe pup just doesn’t do well with travel. In these cases, you’ll be doing them a favor to call a sitter or book a boarding spot.
Dog-Friendly Travel Destinations
What’s more fun than dreaming up your ideal vacation? Kick your imagination into gear and get the leash ready, because there are so many amazing options to choose from!
Cities
What makes a dog-friendly city? A dog-friendly city is designed and regulated for the harmonious cohabitation of pups and their people. They have lots of dog parks and dog-accessible transportation. Many bars, restaurants, hotels, shopping venues, and activities welcome dogs.
- The Pacific Northwest - Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon
- The Southwest - Sedona, Arizona and Albuquerque, New Mexico
- The Southeast - Asheville, North Carolina and Miami, Florida
- The Midwest and West - Chicago, Illinois, Denver, Colorado, and Santa Barbara, California
- The Northeast - New York City and Boston, Massachusetts
Outdoors
National parks may seem like a great dog-friendly vacation option—but many have important rules and restrictions meant to protect nature, pup, and other guests.
- Acadia National Park, Maine
- Yosemite National Park, California
- Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
- New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
- Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
International
Many of the globe’s top destinations are great for pup. A pet-friendly international travel destination has a temperate climate, lots of outdoor activities, and a pet-loving culture.
- Canada
- France
- Japan
- The Netherlands
- Switzerland
Transportation
Transportation may be the most challenging piece in your pet-friendly travel puzzle. Consider cost, regulations, time, and comfort.
- Avoid feeding your dog a few hours before travel.
- Ensure plenty of exercise and potty time beforehand.
- Prepare items like medication, water containers, and potty pads.
- If your dog has anxiety or motion sickness, consult your vet.
Car
Road trips are often the easiest option. Ensure your dog’s place in the car is safe and comfortable, such as a crate or seatbelt harness.
Plane
When flying with your dog, follow both airline and destination regulations regarding vaccinations, identification, and travel crates.
You can also hire a professional pet travel company. Check the IPATA directory for providers.
Train, Subway, and Ferry
Always confirm pet travel rules with the service provider beforehand.
Accommodation
Many hotels now offer pet-friendly amenities like dog beds, bowls, toys, and treats.
Pet-Friendly Hotels and Resorts
- Best Economy - Red Roof Inn
- Best Midrange - Drury
- Best Luxury - Loews
- Best Boutique - Staypineapple
- Best Resort - Blackberry Farm
It’s time to jet!
Sharing great times and making great memories is the best part of being a pet parent. We hope you feel ready to plan an ideal pet-friendly vacation. Petloc8 wishes you safe travels.
