Anyone obsessed with dogs never wants to leave them at home while traveling. Taking your dog with you on tours can be fun, and you don’t have to worry about hiring pet sitters or leaving them at a kennel. However, whether you are traveling on planes, automobiles, or trains, moving with dogs comes with some challenges, and you need to prepare carefully. Take note of these seven pro tips before you set out on your next trip with your dog.
1. Know Pet Travel Rules Before Departing
Airlines, trains, Airbnbs, and hotels all follow different rules when it comes to traveling with your dog. Some airlines allow a limited number of dogs, while others allow dogs based on their size and weight. Things can be more complicated on trains, and you might need special passes to bring your dog. Check the public transport rules for the city you are visiting. If dogs are not allowed in buses, subways, and trams at your destination, you may need to book a private car in advance.
2. Obtain A Comfortable Dog Carrier
A crate or carrier is a necessary accessory to make your dog’s travels comfortable. If you are traveling in a car, you can put your dog in the dog carrier and keep her safely in the back seat. When you are on a flight, a dog carrier will be mandatory, whether your dog remains in the cabin or the cargo section. If the journey is long, the carrier will also help your dog get proper sleep. Upon reaching your destination, you can carry your dog in the carrier if she feels too tired to walk. The best dog carriers can be collapsed and assembled quickly, and they also have wheels for easy transportation.
3. Take Your Dog To A Veterinarian Before You Leave
Dogs with a history of major illnesses are not ideal travelers. Even if your dog is healthy, you may need a fitness certificate from a vet attesting to your dog’s physical condition before traveling. In post-Covid times, there might be other health-related requirements for your dog, which vary from place to place. Moreover, the vet can also diagnose your dog’s health before a long journey to check if she can tolerate the travel. The vet may prescribe medications to keep your dog in good shape throughout the journey or even suggest leaving her at home.
4. Pack Some Toys For Your Dog
Dogs require more time to become comfortable in a new environment. Letting your dog play with her favorite toys means she becomes active quickly in the new place, and you can start visiting new spots with your dog sooner. If you are traveling on public transport, calming or distracting your dog with the help of toys saves you from a lot of inconveniences. Some of the toys your dog might like are the Kong, Hide-a-Squirrel, the Frostbite, Tuffies, the Gappay ball and rope, and the Squirrel Dude.
5. Carry Your Dog’s Favorite Food
It may be hard for dogs to switch food at short notice when you go to a new place. It is not a good idea to feed your dog unhealthy food while traveling, as it can make her seek it out and ruin your trip altogether. Unless you know for sure that your dog’s favorite foods will be available at your destination, pack dog food that will last the whole duration of the tour. If there are chances of delays, carry some extra food to avoid a sudden change in your dog’s diet.
Besides the staple food, bring along some calming treats to keep your dog relaxed on the flight or train journey. CBD treats work quite well for mellowing a dog out.
6. Maintain Your Dog’s Training And Hygiene During The Trip
It is crucial to maintain your dog’s usual bathing, dining, urinary, and training routine during your travels. Dogs do not respond well to sudden changes in their schedule, and you need to keep things conventional. When you are traveling to the destination, going by car lets you maintain your dog’s toilet needs effortlessly, as you can pull over the car whenever needed. When you are on tour, don’t skip your dog’s training habits, as it can lead to the dog’s physical and behavioral complications.
7. Choose A Hotel That Suits Your Dog
Most hotels or rented homes are not welcoming to dogs. Many hotels do not permit dogs, as it may not be convenient for other guests. Some hotels have strict measurement restrictions for dogs, and you won’t be able to get in with a Great Dane or a Scottish deerhound. However, be honest about your dog, and don’t try to deceive the hotel authorities.
Search for accommodation that provides dog-care facilities like medical assistance, dog sitters, etc. In general, hotels like dogs that are quiet and well-behaved. Convince them of your dog’s qualities, and you might get an attractive offer.
Final Words
Traveling with your dog can be challenging and expensive, and you need to keep several things in mind when touring with your dog. Other than the tips mentioned above, you need to pay attention to documentation like your dog’s ID tags, passport, and medical records. If you follow these tips, you’ll surely have a happy and memorable time while traveling with your dog.
