A holiday with your dog can be a really fun time for both of you. But it requires foresight and a bit of planning to make it so.
For starters, you’ll want to find out about the travel requirements for the various places you plan to visit. Some of these restrictions make it difficult, if not impossible to travel with your pet.
But all countries, even pet-friendly ones, have importation laws you’ll have to comply with.
You will also have to find out about accommodation. If you prefer to stay at a hotel, you will have to find one at your destination that accepts dogs.
The good news is that more and more hotels are accepting pets these days.
Next up, there are travel arrangements to be made. If you’ll be using air or rail travel, the best advice is to have a specialized pet travel company make the arrangements for you. Mistakes can be costly and even tragic, so don’t take the chance.
If you’re planning on traveling by car though then the arrangements will be down to you. And there is quite a bit of planning to be done.
Start by deciding how you are going to restrain your dog in the car – either with a dog crate, or a specialized seat belt. This is actually a legal requirement in some countries, but even if it isn’t required by law, it just makes good sense.
It is also important to remember that dogs become dehydrated quite easily. Take a water bowl and plenty of water along, and never leave your dog in a parked car, especially in warm weather.
In addition to the water bowl, remember your dog’s “luggage” – leash, collar, harness, id tags, toys, blanket etc.You will also have to plan where you will overnight on your trip, and check out local accommodation that allows dogs. And while we’re on the subject of breaks, remember to make regular bathroom and leg stretching stops.
And there’s even more to be taken care of. When you are at your holiday destination, ensure that your dog wears an id tag with your local contact details, at all times. For international travel you will have to have your dog micro-chipped, but extra precautions are never a bad thing.
It’s also a good idea to have a photograph of your dog with you, just in case your dog becomes lost.
Make a point of getting the number and location of a local vet. In a crisis, the last thing you want is to be doing is searching for this information.
Be sure to comply with local bi-laws and regulations. These will normally include keeping your dog on a leash and picking up after him. It’s common courtesy to do this anyway, even if there are no local laws in place.
By now you’re probably wondering if all of this is worth the trouble. Well, ask yourself how much a trouble free, unforgettable trip with your dog is worth. The likely answer is, priceless!
Find out more about dog travel, puppy care, dog health and other helpful dog advice at www.dogsanddogtraining.com.
