Vacationing with Your Pet

Don’t want to leave your pet behind on vacation? You don’t have to! Today, more people than ever are choosing to include their companions in family vacations. Just keep in mind that a bit of extra planning—and packing—may be in order.  

Vaccinations.  Make sure all vaccinations are up to date and that you have proof of current vaccinations with you before you hit the open road.  If you cross state lines without proof of current vaccinations and you are stopped, your pet could be confiscated until you can produce proof of vaccination.


The ID Tag: Don’t Leave Home Without It! Firmly attach an accurate, up-to-date ID tag to your pet’s collar. Consider fastening on a temporary tag, too, that has the address of your pet-friendly vacation rental on it. That way, a lost dog or cat can be swiftly returned to you. Microchipping your pet is a great extra step to take, but an ID tag is a must!  Unfortunately, traveling with your pet increases your chances of being separated from them, so ready yourself for a runaway pooch or loose feline.


By Air or Car? If traveling by air, thoroughly investigate the airline’s pet policy ahead of time – be prepared for hidden fees and the possibility that your pet may have to ride cargo.  And many airlines have “breed restrictions,” so be sure to ask about any restrictions before making reservations. For road trip planning, factor in the number of extra stops you’ll have to take to appease your pet. 


Research Pet-Friendliness in Advance.  Make sure your accommodations, be they hotel or apartment, are pet-friendly. Otherwise, you could be in for a really unpleasant surprise when you arrive at your destination.


Pack for your pup. Bring along all of the necessary supplies to care for your pet, including a crate, medicines, and your pet’s regular food.

Links to Pet-Friendly Resources
Hotels, bed and breakfast inns, RV parks, campgrounds, cabin/vacation rentals, motels, restaurants, even pet-friendly national parks!

 www.dogfriendly.com/

 www.vacationrentals.com/media/top-10-dog-friendly-vacation-spots.htm 

 www.petswelcome.com

 usparks.about.com/od/parksbyinterest/ss/dog_friendly.htm