Taking Your Puppy on Vacation
The world is brimming with possibilities in the summer! There’s arguably no better time to travel, and an
increasing number of vacationers plan to take their pup along for the ride! Traveling alone can be simple, but traveling with pets requires more preparation.
Planning is your friend when vacationing with your pup! Most travelers drive to their destination, which
allows for more freedom to stop and give you and your dog breaks as needed. But what other details
must be considered when making your plans?
Top Tips for Planning Your Summer Vacation with Your Puppy
- Does your location allow pets? Not all places accept pets, so it is essential that you clarify this point before you arrive at your destination. Do they have a pet fee? Do they only accept dogs in certain areas? Always be certain that you have informed the staff of your dog’s presence before arriving so all accommodations are prepared appropriately. While on the road, keep an eye out for dog-friendly rest stops so your pup can have a break from the drive. If you’re doing a very long day of travel, consider finding a dog park along your route so your pup can expend some energy.
- Are you traveling internationally? If you are traveling internationally, find out what paperwork or vaccines are required in advance of your trip. For instance, Canada requires proof of a current rabies vaccine for your pup. This is simple to provide since your dog must have an annual rabies vaccine in Georgia, but having the appropriate paperwork is essential. Do your research and see your vet to make sure your pup is in good physical condition before travel. If your dog is anxious about driving (or flying, or sailing) your vet may be able to prescribe a medication that can help.
- Start preparing your puppy early. Prepare your dog for the travel method you’ll be using during the trip. If you rarely drive with them and have planned a week away that requires a 4-hour drive to your destination, start taking your dog along for short drives as soon as possible. This will help them become accustomed to travel in the car and may alert you to problems you need to overcome. Some dogs experience carsickness or are extremely anxious, and you can make accommodations for those issues.
- Plan for an emergency. If your dog should get separated from you during your trip, you have the best chance of being reunited if they are wearing updated tags. Ideally, they should be microchipped as well. If you are anxious about the possibility of your dog escaping, you may find that a GPS pet tracker is the right choice for you. Also, make sure to research what vet hospitals are in the area where you are traveling in case you need it.
- Never leave your pup in a hot car – the danger is just too great. Every year there are news stories about dogs being rescued from a hot car…and sometimes, the rescuers are too late. You can completely avoid this danger by simply making a commitment to never leave your dog in the car, even if it’s “only for a few minutes”.
- Keep their comfort in mind, and stick to your normal routine as much as possible. Remember that dogs are creatures of habit! Maintaining the same activities and feeding routines will help your dog adjust to your vacation setting with minimal disruption. ALWAYS have plenty of water and a bowl they can easily use to drink it. If you’re on the road for long periods of time, be sure to stop and offer a bowl of fresh water immediately, then stay out of the car for about 20-30 minutes so your dog has time to drink and also relieve themselves.
Most importantly, have an incredible time! Taking your pup on vacation will give you a chance to
experience the world together and strengthen your bond. By taking the time to plan ahead, you can set yourself up for an unforgettable adventure with your puppy!
