TRAVELING WITH DOGS
Over the past 13 years some of the best road trips that I’ve taken included my American Eskimo dog, Cassie. While as a puppy, she got carsick, I gently built up her tolerance to the point that she eagerly bounded into the car for whatever adventure awaited. In her travels, she visited 29 states and stayed in countless motels along the way. It was comforting to have her companionship and happy face peering out the window as we sailed along open highways!
Traveling with a dog can present challenges, but with proper planning, it can be a very rewarding experience. With more and more families bringing the family pooch along on vacation, more hotels have become “pet-friendly”. One of the largest chains to proclaim themselves “pet-friendly” is Choice Hotels, which include Comfort Inns & Suites, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, Mainstay Suites, Econolodge and Rodeway Inns. It’s always wise to call the hotel in advance to ask about pet restrictions and possible deposit fees, as these may vary by property.
Safety for you and your dog are of utmost concern. Dogs seatbelts are available at most pet stores and are used in conjunction with the car safety belt system. Long before the road trip, acclimate your dog to the restrictive nature of the seatbelt. If your dog is accustomed to a crate or kennel, bring it along for use in the car or hotel. While Cassie seemed comfortable anywhere we stopped, new surroundings can make some dogs nervous and cause them to misbehave. No matter how obedient your dog is at home, USE A LEASH AT ALL TIMES! Unusual noises, smells and stress from traveling may cause a dog to run. Bring a recent photo of your dog so that you can identify and describe them should they get lost.
Make sure your dog is in good health and up to date on all vaccinations. Have your Vet’s phone number with you. Check your dog’s collar for the current ID tag and Rabies tag. Find the address and phone number of a local veterinary hospital. Bring along a couple of gallons of water from home—in case your dog has a touchy stomach. Pack the pooch’s regular food if it’s not readily available in pet stores or groceries. You may also want to pack the regular feeding/watering bowls to maintain the familiarity for Fido.
After a long day of travel, it may seem inviting to leave the dog in at the motel and go for a relaxing meal. I did that once, and came back to a frantic, barking dog. I vowed from that point on, to get take-out and eat at a park or in the hotel room. I did not want Cassie that frightened because of a meal! Realize that you may have to make concessions if taking your dog along. It’s well worth the sacrifice!
Don’t leave the dog in the car! In the warmer months, the car heats up incredibly quickly and can easily lead to heatstroke. Some dogs can’t adjust to cold weather very well during winter travel.
While traveling with a dog takes a lot of work, it is worth it! My beloved Cassie died last week at 13 ½ of kidney failure. I treasure each and every mile of life’s road that we traveled together. I wish it could have been 13 ½ more years. She was pretty special.
Call me today at 269 982 0901 or email me at: colson@cruiseplanners.com for your pet-friendly vacation! Even if your favorite pet, is your spouse!!
