Planning a safe and fun dog-friendly vacation

With an increasing number of hotels, resorts, and recreational areas rolling out the welcome mat for four-legged family members, more and more people are taking their pets on the road this summer. But before you book your airline reservations or hit the highway, here are a few things to keep in mind to make your pet traveling experience safe and enjoyable for all.

Flying the dog-friendly skies
Before choosing air travel for your pet, ensure your pet’s physical condition is conducive to flying; an ill, injured, pregnant, very young, or senior pet is at higher risk. Check the latest airline pet policies posted on airline websites.

Hit the road, Jack Russell
Before taking to the open road for an extended trip, ensure your pet is accustomed to being in the car for various lengths of time. To be on the safe side, a seat upholstery protector, such as a pet hammock or waterproof seat cover, can make clean-up easier should your pet get sick or have an accident. Pack a few cleaning supplies including paper or cloth towels and water spray bottle premixed with soap or cleanser to avoid having to search for a store at the last minute.

Buckle-up Buddy
Keep your pet safe and secure inside the vehicle with a soft place to sit and a safety-restraint seatbelt. Just as you wouldn’t think of not wearing your seatbelt, an unrestrained pet can become a projectile in the event of a sudden stop or crash, causing serious injury or death. Never attach a restraining device to a collar; always use a harness.

Kitty cars
Cats should be kept in a secured crate. Never allow your cat to roam freely inside your vehicle, as Kitty could get tangled around the driver’s feet or block the driver’s view.

Exit the vehicle safely 
“Pit stops” are important for you and your pet. Every couple of hours, allow your pet to stretch their legs, walk around, and take a potty break, but never let your pet jump out of the car without a leash – especially around a busy parking lot, highway or street. Your pet may be fearful in unfamiliar surroundings and may want to bolt; being on a leash cuts the risk.

Don’t forget the water
Bring your own supply of drinking water along with bowls. Encourage your pet to consume small amounts of food and water, but don’t allow them to overeat or drink if you still have more driving to do.

Reserve your pet’s main meal for the end of the day, preferably when you have reached your final destination for the night. Be considerate and practice good “petiquette” by cleaning up after your pet. Always keep a supply of pick-up bags with you.

ID Please
A travel tag on a pet’s collar will help someone locate you should you and your pet become separated. The travel tag should contain information about where you are staying locally (while away from home) or a cell phone number you’ll be using on the trip.

Pets welcome here
Some online resources for pet-friendly travel plans include: dogfriendly.com, pet-friendly-hotels.net, petfriendlytravel.com, and petswelcome.com. Whether you plan to travel by land or air, the bottom line is: be prepared.

With a positive attitude and the right preparations, traveling with your furry friend can be fun and rewarding for the whole family.

Photo: FreeDigitalPhotos.net