Is it a good idea to take my dog to vacation?
Since they are a very impawtant family member, it makes sense to want to bring your dog on vacation! The grrreat news is… you can! With the right prep work, you and Fido can enjoy a fantastic getaway together. In this blog, we dig into all the tips and tricks you need to know for vacationing with your dog.
The Best Dog-Friendly Vacations
Here’s a paw-ful of dog-friendly vacations, sure to get you smilin’ and your Pet's tail waggin’.
The Beach
It doesn’t get much better than feeling the sand on your feet… or your paws! With wide-open areas perfect for fetch, spacious lodging options, and a laid-back itinerary, the beach is typically a solid vacation for doggos. It’s also a big hit with water woofs!
Before booking your beach vacay, make sure you’re staying near a beach that allows dogs. It’s also a good idea to invest in a doggie life jacket if you don’t currently own one.
Camping
Going camping is a natural choice when vacationing with your dog! In fact, many state parks and national parks offurr dog-friendly campgrounds. This type of trip is a fun way to see the U.S. with your woof in tow. Before visiting a dog-friendly campground, research their leash requirements and behavior rules.
Camping is also a good opportunity for you and your dog to get some exercise. Take hikes and walks with your dog in areas where pets are permitted – but be mindful of all the other wildlife, both plants, and animals! Don’t let your pet eat any plants or drink any stagnant water. If you see a wild animal, stay calm and walk away.
In the outdoors, leashes are a must, as is flea and tick prevention. Serious hikers might also invest in a pair of booties to protect their pooch’s paws. They might look a little silly, but they’re worth it to keep Fido’s feet safe from sharp rocks and rough terrain. Plus, booties aren’t exclusive to hiking – they can also protect your woof’s paws when walking on hot pavement.
The Most Dog-Friendly Vacations in the United States
Pet travel is becoming a more convenient and economical experience. Additionally, as the number of dog owners increased during the epidemic, an increasing number of us will probably be looking for pet-friendly travel advice.
Therefore, here is the best State in US with the best vacation spot that you can visit with your dog along, suitable for both novice and experienced dog owners. There are plenty of pet-friendly hotels, pet supply stores, dog parks, and enjoyable treks in each of these locations.
Orlando, Florida
Although it is well-known for its thrilling theme parks, Orlando, Florida, also ranks first for travel destinations that welcome dogs. With a score of over 93 out of 100, the city is the greatest place in the US to travel with a dog. Orlando is home to numerous theme parks, including Universal and Disney, in addition to a variety of other neighboring attractions. With 500 species to view and a children's area, the Central Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great family vacation destination, only 20 minutes' drive from Orlando.
Orlando is home to the greatest selection of pet-friendly hotels, with over 600 properties to pick from. Pets are welcome in The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Disney Area Orlando and The Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal, if you're looking for accommodations close to the theme park. Then, Orlando offers 14 dog-friendly parks to choose from when it's time for a stroll. When making your decision, you might want to think about Paw Park, which is located just outside of Orlando and offers play areas designed specifically for your dog, including an agility course, or Lake Eola Park, which includes a weekend market that frequently sells pet-related things.
Leaving Your Dog Behind
If your holiday plans aren't exactly pet-friendly, you may not know what to do with your dog when you travel, let alone what to do with your cat while on vacation. Fortunately, the options for pet care while you're on holiday are plentiful.
If your pet is healthy and gets along well with other pets, then boarding them at a pet hotel or a kennel might be a good option. How much comfort, pampering and personal attention your pet is likely to receive depends on how much you're willing to spend. Here's what you'll need to do if you decide to board your pet at a facility:
- Make sure your pet's vaccinated.In addition to rabies, distemper and canine parvovirus vaccinations, your dog may also be required to receive a Bordetella vaccine prior to their kennel stay. Many pet boarding facilities require a health certificate from your veterinarian as proof that they've had all their shots and are in good health.
- Rid them of fleas, ticks and other parasites.If your pet is on a regular prevention protocol, this may be included on their health certificate.
- Prepare enough of their regular food to eat during their stay.Because switching foods quickly can cause both dogs and cats to experience upset tummies, many pet hotels and kennels require that you provide food from home.
- Prepare their medication, along with instructions.If your pet takes regular medication, provide enough to get them through their stay. Also, write out detailed instructions for the boarder and share your vet's contact information.
- Let them bring something from home.While it might be tempting to let your pet bring their favourite toy, it's better to bring something that they won't miss if it gets destroyed or left behind. An old T-shirt or blanket that has your scent on it will help give them comfort and reassurance.
- Take them to visit the facility before your trip.If possible, bring your pup or kitty to the facility a few days before your holiday starts, and let them become familiar with the space and the people who work there. This will help your pet feel more comfortable when you leave them there for an extended stay.
FAQ
What to do with your pets when you go on vacation?
Local dog boarding, professional kennels, and cat boarding are good options too. All these pet care options cost a little more than asking friends or family to watch your pet, but caretakers with professional training and experience can be worth it.
How do you manage pets when traveling?
- As a general rule, try to stick to your pet's daily meal routine on your vacation.
- Easy to wash travel-friendly bowls will be a lifesaver.
- Whether it's your car or the train, make sure your pet travels and naps with comfort.
- Your pet will require their own playtime, even when you're on a vacation.
Should I get a pet if I travel?
Unfortunately, adopting a dog is not a good idea if you travel a lot. Dogs are some of the most high-maintenance pets to have because they can't be left alone for too long. Even dogs who are left alone for eight hours can develop separation anxiety, making them act destructively while you're away.
What happens to pets on long flights?
Where will my pet travel in the aeroplane? Pet dogs and cats travelling to an international destination are placed in a pressurised and temperature-controlled area of the cargo hold of the aeroplane. Even though it is part of the cargo hold, your per will not travel stacked on top of the baggage.
Can a cat survive 14 hour flight?
Adult dogs and cats easily make it through the night without having to relieve themselves, so your pet should also be OK on most very long flights. Regardless, you'll have to line their carrier with something absorbent - a Dry Fur pad works nicely under your pet's own crate pad or thin blanket.
