5 Essential Factors We Consider To Plan a Stress-Free Dog-Friendly Vacation
Vacation time is a great opportunity to spend quality time with your pup. However, finding a destination that is both enjoyable for you and suitable for your dog can be a challenge. That's why planning a dog-friendly vacation is key to ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.
In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to plan the perfect dog-friendly vacation.
Choose a pet-friendly destination:
The first step in planning your dog-friendly vacation is finding a suitable place to stay. Not all vacation destinations are equally welcoming to dogs, so it's important to do your research and find a place that will accommodate your pup. Look for pet-friendly hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals that welcome dogs. Be sure to research the policies and fees for bringing your dog, as well as any size or breed restrictions.
Many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals now offer pet-friendly options, and finding them has never been easier. Airbnb.com and Booking.com have easy filtering features that eliminate non dog-friendly locations right off the bat, while BringFido or Pet Friendly Travel provide a little more detail on the dog amenities available at various locations.
If you are planning at staying at a hotel, we have found it beneficial to call ahead and request a room on the ground floor. Easy access for bathroom breaks and limits the amount of time your dog might need to be alone if you are making trips back and forth to the car.
Consider your dog's needs:
When planning a vacation with your dog, it's important to consider their needs and preferences. For example, if your dog is not used to being in the car for long periods of time, a road trip may not be the best option. Similarly, if your dog is not a strong swimmer, a beach vacation may not be the best choice. It's important to choose a vacation that will be enjoyable and comfortable for your dog.
Choose a destination that offers plenty of dog-friendly activities that align with the breed you have. Some popular options include parks, beaches, hiking trails, and dog parks. You may also want to consider places that have dog-friendly cafes and restaurants, so you and your pet can enjoy a meal together.
When selecting activities, consider your dog's energy level and breed. For example, a small lapdog may not be suitable for a long hike, but a big dog may enjoy an adventure in the great outdoors.
Research local pet policies:
Before you travel, it's a good idea to research the local pet policies in your destination. The last thing you want to happen is to show up and have to spend the entire time in your room. Some places may have leash laws or restrictions on where pets are allowed. It's important to familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure that you and your dog are in compliance.
These days it is difficult to find a destination that you can’t make dog-friendly, but some places are much better than others. Instagram is a great place to find where the dogs are hanging out in your destination, we do this routinely before heading out of the house, even just for the day.
Pack the essentials:
When traveling with your dog, it's important to pack all the essentials to ensure that they are comfortable and well-cared for. This includes their food, water, leash, and any necessary medications. It's also a good idea to bring a few toys and treats to keep your dog entertained during the trip.
Depending on where you are going, you might need to pack items specific for activity or climate. In addition to the list above, here is what we never want to forget for specific moments:
Beach/Lake trip essential: Towel - Being a golden retriever, Graham doesn’t dry and . To avoid discomfort when hopping back in the car or hot spots that can appear around his ears if not dried thoroughly, we never forget this towel to dry off after a swim!
Hiking trip essential: Brush - depending on where you are hiking, ticks can find their way into your dogs fur. Giving Graham a good brush after a hike makes sure we’ve removed any unwanted guests we picked up along the way!
Overnight trip essential: Travel Dog Bed - bringing some of the comforts of home with you is an important part of getting your dog aclimated to their new surroundings. For us, that starts with bringing his portable dog bed!
Restaurant or Brewery trip essential: No Hide Bone - keeping your dog occupied and/or distracted in a high sensory environment. A no-hide bone is a great way to provide them with something to focus on under the table while your enjoying your meal.
Keep your dog safe & plan for emergencies:
When traveling with your dog, it's important to keep their safety in mind at all times. This includes making sure they are properly secured in the car and never leaving them alone in a hot car. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on your dog when you're out and about, as unfamiliar environments can be stressful for them.
It's also a good idea to plan for emergencies when traveling with your pet. Research veterinary clinics and pet hospitals in the area you will be visiting in case of an emergency. Make sure to bring your pet's health records and any necessary medications with you. You never know when a hot spot is going to pop up or allergic reaction is going to take place from being in a new setting, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry instead of having to cut that vacation short!
Have fun!
The most important thing when planning a dog-friendly vacation is to have fun and enjoy the experience with your furry friend. Take time to explore new places and try new things together, and don't forget to bring along plenty of treats and toys to keep your dog happy and entertained.
We love taking Graham with us on vacations. He brings so much joy to the trip and has grown to understand that new experiences are fun and rewarding instead of scary and full of anxiety. But I understand it’s not necessarily easy to pull off.
With some careful planning and consideration, you and your dog can have a fun and memorable vacation together. Just remember to do your research, pack the essentials, and keep your dog's needs and safety in mind, and you'll be well on your way to the perfect dog-friendly vacation.