Trifter

There is definite enjoyment in bringing the family pet along on your travels, but not all places will welcome your furry friend.  Before taking your pup on any outing or vacation, think about the activities that the family is planning. Even dogs that are normally well behaved at home can have difficulty when confronted with the stresses of a new environment.  With Pup along, some last minute ideas or side trips may have to be abandoned. Your pet should never be left alone in the car, even for a short period. Even on overcast days, radiant heat from the sun can raise the temperature inside an automobile to dangerous levels within minutes.

Some parks will allow your pet if he is kept on leash. However, at least one family member must be responsible for him at all times.  Pup should never be left unattended, tied to a park bench or table. This is unfair to both the dog and to other park guests.

Carefully consider your dog’s personality, and what you plan to do before you take your pup along on a camping trip. Although many private and Forest Service campgrounds may welcome your dog, National Parks do not allow pets. For some pets, time in the woods is exciting, but for others the change from their home environment is disorienting and confusing.  Most dogs are territorial, and some display the need to protect their turf more than others. The confined living space of most camping areas can be very difficult for some dogs. Even if their guard duties are minimize to your travel trailer, barking at every passerby, may drive the family and your neighbors’ nuts.

Vacations require careful preparation. Unless the trip involves staying with relatives where you know pet is welcome, thoughtfully weigh the pros and cons of including your pet on the holiday. Taking your pet will limit your choice of hotels and many vacation activities, such as amusement parks preclude doggie companions.  Remember, your pup doesn’t understand that he should behave as a guest. In a new, different and exciting location, your pet may be tempted to misbehave with opportunities not present at home. Perhaps your Pup “rules the roost” at home. The idea of sudden strict boundaries may be more than he can handle and more than you are willing to battle. As dog owners, we are responsible for our pup’s behavior.

You may decide that traveling with your pet is not an option. If you plan to put your pet in the care of a pet sitter or a pet boarding business, it is best to plan well ahead of your vacation so you can find the best choices in your area. It is also important for both you and your pet to be comfortable with the caregiver that you choose.

Pet sitters are increasing in popularity and are ideal for families with multiple animals. This may also the preferred care for elderly pets since living away from the home especially in a kennel environment can be stressful for them.  Pet sitters offer a variety of services including walks and playtime for your pet. There are even some services that pair your pet with a compatible family while you’re away. Check out www.petvacations.net.

Boarding facilities can vary from basic accommodations to themed suites where animal members of the same family can room together. The housing should be clean and odor free. Ask about the health requirements. Tougher policies mean better protection for your pet. Most reputable facilities offer exercise programs and special diets. For dogs staying longer than a couple of days, getting out of their kennel daily will ease boarding stress and is therefore highly recommended.  Plan to tour the facility before you leave your pet. The kennel owners should be happy to show you around, If they won’t, don’t leave your pet.

Whatever program you choose, do research before you hire a sitter or board your pet.  Ask your veterinarian who they would suggest, and ask the caregiver for references.            

If your travel plans are flexible and bringing your pet along is the family choice, consider one of the new pet friendly resorts now available. Some hotels and specialty resorts and even cruise lines are finally coming round to how much we truly love our furry friends. There are now a variety of pet packages being offered to wonderful vacation destinations. These great spots not only allow pets, they welcome them with open paws! Furry friends are treated with the same courtesy and warmth as their human companions. The accommodations are designed for both human and animal comfort. Special beds, menus and events make these vacations enjoyable and relaxing for all involved.  A few places to check out are petvacations.com, takeyourpet.com, cruisecat.com and petswelcome.com.