In Arizona, it’s just too hot to do anything in August. Apparently even blogging is too hard when it is that hot. Think of it as summer hibernation. However, it is now September! There is the promise of Fall on the horizon and I am ready to get back into it.
This weekend was Labor Day weekend. A great time for relaxing and vacationing. Because my parents wanted to get away, but decided to do so at the last minute, it also became a vacation for pups! Traveling with your pets does take a little extra planning though.
The best place to start is DogFriendly.com. This website lists by state and by city businesses that are dog friendly- from hotels to attractions to restaurants. It isn’t 100% complete, but you can get a good starting point for your trip. If there is nothing listed, my guess is that the town isn’t too dog friendly. From there, always call first. Never just show up and expect that there will be a room waiting for you and your pups. Also, be prepared to put a pet deposit down. The amount can vary, but most businesses require the deposit (and use it as a gauge to see who believes their dog is well behaved).
The first step to traveling with your dog is much like human traveling, make sure you have all proper forms of identification. For a dog, this means having all proper tags and vaccinations on hand. Some establishments might ask for a rabies certificate, so make a copy to bring with you. Make sure the tags on your dog’s collar are up to date, and having your dog microchipped is a great idea.
Next up, it’s time to hit the road. I happen to be an excellent traveling dog. I sit in the back seat and don’t move around or whine or fuss at all. I love the car and will happily sit and look out the window. Some dogs cannot handle this, however. The movement can cause them some stress or the unfamiliarity of the situation can increase their anxiety. If you don’t take your dog in the car often, don’t expect it will be perfect. There are some great tips available on the American Kennel Club’s website for car travel with your dog. If your dog does fuss in the car, you might consider bringing them in their crate (assuming your car is large enough to fit one) or using a dog seat belt. Also, bringing familiar smells (toys, a blanket, their normal food) will help dogs adapt.
One big question is about sedating your dog for travel. This is a decision you should make based on the fact that you know your dog and you have talked to your vet. If your dog has extreme anxiety in a car, your vet can prescribe a sedative for them and they will review all of the side effects or possible complications. If you haven’t talked to your vet, don’t just assume. Flat faced breeds and some giant breeds can suffer serious side effects from being sedated. Giving your dog a Benadryl just to make her sleep is not the best choice.
Once you arrive at your destination, take a walk. Do not dump your dog into a hotel room and leave. Walk for at least 30 minutes around the area to let your dog stretch, smell and do his business. If possible, let your dog meet the owner of the establishment so that, if needed, the owners can get into the room with your dog inside. Help your dog settle into the new room by hanging out with them for a little while. Your pets pick up on your ques really quickly, the more relaxed you are, the faster they will adapt.
Finally, on your trip, always ask about your dog on the patio of a restaurant or on a walking tour, never assume. Also keep in mind that not everyone is a dog lover. Don’t let your pups rush up to other people or pull at their leashes. A well trained dog will sit under your table or at your feet on a patio while you eat and stay by your side while walking through town. Be mindful of the terrain and weather for your dog as well and let them rest if they need it.
Being an attentive and rational pet owner will make family vacations all the more fun!
Wet Beards 