There is always so much to do prior to going on vacation. I tend to spend many hours researching destinations, hotels and eateries that are dog friendly. I also like to clean the house, do as much laundry as I can and take out all the trash. Your “to-do” list may be similar but did you know there are things you can do to prepare your dog before your trip? Some of the items listed below may be things you already know but it’s always good to keep a mental note, perhaps use the below as your checklist!
- Pet Identification. Make sure your dog has a sturdy collar and dog tag that has up to date information. Also get your dog microchipped. How awful would it be if while on your weekend getaway, you lose your pup! Talk about your vacation turning from fun to devastation! Microchips are often placed at the base of the neck. The process is rather fast and pain free (though I had a hard time watching! LOL!). I had Muffin on my lap as they placed the chip and it was literally seconds and the process was done. The area may be sensitive afterwards so be careful. Vets as well as mobile trucks that administer shots can do this for you. The cost is fairly inexpensive too! You are given a barcode that you register online with your contact information. If your dog gets lost and is turned to the local shelter, they will scan the chip to find the owners information. Click here for more information about microchipping.
- Visit the Vet. If you plan on going on vacation for a long period of time, perhaps you should visit the vet to make sure your dog’s healthy for the trip. Make sure your dogs shots and vaccinations are all up to date. If you don’t want to bring your pet’s records with you on the trip, take a photo of important papers on your phone in case you need to refer to it.
- Get Food. Plan ahead! How many days/nights will you be away. There may be some cities where supermarkets are accessible in case you forget some food but if you go camping, you will be out of luck!
- Pack Smart. Pack a good collar and leash (consider one with reflectors
), toys, bedding, towels, food/water bowls and pretty much anything else that your dog uses on a daily basis. Remember, for you it may be a privilege to stay in a nice hotel where maid service is provided but for your pup, everything is a new environment. Try to make the lodging as comfortable as possible for them.
- Fill Medication. Does your dog need medication? Make sure to fill meds early so that you are not scrambling at the last minute. It may be a good idea to invest in a dog first aid kit just in case an injury occurs. The one below is a basic one you can purchase on Amazon. They do have more robust kits if you feel as though you need one.
- Motion Sick Pets? As mentioned in the my earlier post, Muffin is prone to get car sick during car rides. If your dog has the same symptoms, I would highly recommend buying a Thundershirt. Remember, they have different sizes so be sure to measure your dog. What a world of a difference! It’s so worth the price!
- Need a Crate? If you have a dog that needs it’s own space, you may want to invest in a crate. You can use this for the car ride as well as inside the hotel. It will keep your dog safe in the car. Though most hotels will not allow you to leave your dog unoccupied inside the hotel room, it may be a great place for your dog to sleep to make them feel safe. Click here for picking the right crate size for your dog. Crates can be purchased at your local pet store or online.
- Check Out the Area. Make sure you research thoroughly the hotel and the surrounding areas of your trip. Are there dog friendly restaurants nearby? Where is the nearest vet? Is there a pet fee at the hotel you are staying at? Are there any rules that you need to abide by for bringing a pet? Is there a grass area nearby for your dog to go potty? What about bags to pick up after your dog?
These are just some tips. If you have any that have helped you, let us know! Happy travels.
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