Health

Taking Your Dog on Vacation

german shepherd dog on vacation

When the time comes to take a relaxing vacation, you may find that the idea is not so relaxing if you’re a dog owner.

You have to decide whether to enlist help that will allow you to leave your dog at home, send them off to a boarding kennel, or take them with you.

All of the options require planning and are not without stress – but perhaps the least stressful option is to take them with you because, at least that way, they are with you and know they are safe.

If you do decide to take your dog on vacation with you, here are a few things that will make your trip more successful:

Think About Quarantine

german shepherd wearing mask

Many overseas destinations require you to quarantine your dog for a designated period before you can be reunited.

Quarantine can be pretty stressful for a dog and owner and could take up most of your vacation time, rendering it a pointless endeavor.

Please choose your destination wisely, ensuring your dog is free and clear upon landing as long as they have a clean bill of health.

It isn’t worth bringing your dog on short trips if quarantine is an issue.

Consider Pet Transport

german shepherd in car

If you’re driving to your vacation destination, then you can simply bring your dog along with you in the car, but if you’re traveling overseas, it won’t be so easy.

Most airlines allow you to fly your dog overseas, but flights over eight hours require dogs to be put in the cargo in an approved travel carrier.

The safety of a plane’s cargo area isn’t ideal for dogs, which is why you should consider using a professional pet transportation company like Pet Transport Pro instead.

Pet Transport Pro ensures your pet is well cared for and kept safe until they join you again at your destination.

However, if you travel via highways and interstates to your location, you will share the roads with speeding vehicles and large commercial trucks. Keep your pet safe in your car by restricting their mobility using a crate or a seatbelt harness designed for dogs.

Even with the best measures and defensive driving, accidents happen, so it is essential to protect every member of your traveling party, including your dog. If involved in an accident caused by a big rig, semi-truck, tractor-trailer, or other large commercial truck, speak with a truck accident lawyer before settling an accident or injury claim.

Book Pet-Friendly Accommodations

dog friendly vacation

It’s a bit of a no-brainer, but if you’re planning to bring your dog on vacation, you need to book a pet-friendly hotel or apartment where your four-legged friend will be welcomed with open arms.

If you can, get in writing that your accommodation is happy to host your pet so that it will be much harder for them to back down if they decide that they don’t like the look of your dog for whatever reason.

Bring Your Dog’s Things

german shepherd with toys

Bringing your dog’s food, bowls, and treats is a no-brainer but don’t forget to pack toys, blankets, bedding, etc. Familiar items will help your dog settle in at your destination, so they are less stressed and less likely to cause a fuss and potentially be a nuisance to other vacationers.

You may also want to consider bringing along sheets, blankets, or bedding to cover furniture so it is less likely to be damaged by your dog, and you don’t risk losing your deposit.

Sedation During Travel

german shepherd taking pill

Many people think sedating their dog during travel is a good idea, but you should discuss this decision with your vet.

Safer options to reduce anxiety during travel are holistic products, CBD oils, CBD chews, or compression shirts.

Plan ahead and have fun!

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