Should you bring your dog on vacation with you?
You could put your dog in a pet hotel or hire a pet sitter, but bringing your furry friend along provides unique opportunities for the two of you, or the whole family, to create fun and lasting memories.
Bringing your dog on vacation may sound slightly stressful, but you’ll find it’s easier than you think. Plus, having your furry friend along will greatly enhance your vacation.
Benefits to Bringing Your Dog Along
You’ll Visit New Places: Searching for fun adventures for your pup will add activities to your vacation that you would have overlooked if you left him at home.
You’ll Get Exercise: Bringing your dog along will increase your exercise, which is great for your health. Whether you go to a dog park or just take your four-legged friend on a sightseeing tour you’ll add some extra cardio to your vacation.
You’ll be Happier: Leaving your dog behind when you go on vacation can be a very emotional experience. No one likes saying goodbye to their pet, even if it’s only for a few days. By bringing your dog alone you eliminate that sadness and get to share your vacation experiences with your furry family member.
“How to” Bring Your Dog on Vacation
Find a Pet-Friendly Hotel: When planning a vacation, the first thing you need to do is find a pet-friendly hotel that is welcoming to both you and your furry friend. Most big cities have several to choose from so it should be easy to find one that fits your needs. Make sure you check the hotel’s information on breed restrictions and added fees before booking.
Research Dog-Friendly Activities and Places
• Dog Park: This is an obvious choice, but for good reason. Your dog will get his exercise while having a blast exploring the new scenery. Search for off-leash dog parks near your hotel to give your pup his own mini-vacation experience.
• Dog Beach: If you’re planning a beach vacation check to see if there are any dog beaches nearby. Your pup will love splashing in the water and running in the sand.
• Hiking: Hiking trails provide a beautiful way for you and your pup to get some exercise and explore the beauty of nature. Your dog will love being in the wild, experiencing all the new sights and smells. These trails normally provide picturesque locations, so don’t forget to take some photos.
• Restaurants: There are many restaurants that will happily welcome your dog. Some of them even have staff that will provide your pup with a treat and a belly rub. Occasionally a restaurant will designate the outdoor or patio area as dog-friendly but forbid your pup from coming inside, so make sure you know the rules before making dinner plans.
• Events: Many large cities host fun events designed especially for dogs, so make sure you check the dates of your vacation to see if there are any fun events your pup will enjoy participating in.
Pack Your Pup’s Essentials
- Collapsible water bowl
- Food: It’s important to keep your dog on the same diet while on vacation
- Collar and Leash: Make sure your dog’s collar has tags with your information
- Favorite toys: Bring along your dog’s favorite toy, or buy him an exciting new one, to make his time alone in the hotel more enjoyable
- Blanket
- Treats: Make sure to reward your pup for good behavior during your travel
- Vaccination records and medications including herbal remedies for your dog
- Water bottle: You’ll need to supply your dog with fresh water while you’re on the road
- Dog Wipes: If your dog gets dirty during the trip you’ll want to have supplies
- A car seat for your dog
Next time you plan a vacation, don’t leave your furry friend behind. Bring your dog on vacation with you to experience all your wonderful adventures. You’ll both have more fun if you’re together.