Enjoy A Relaxing and Safe Vacation With Your Dog

We all love vacations! And this certainly includes our dog. They would much rather enjoy the free time and relaxation with you than be left home alone or carted off to a kennel. You will have a choice of a glorious variety of outings with your pet, but it is wise to plan and prepare for all of the essentials needed for your adventure.

There are many pet-friendly hotels that will welcome your pet. Whether you choose to use the internet or telephone to make your accommodations, make sure you do receive confirmation that your dog will be accepted. You may have to pay an additional fee, so check on this, too. Confirmation in writing would be the best.

Your mode of travel is not quite so simple. Traveling by plane can be done but rules vary from airline to airline. Some airlines will not allow pets at all and some will allow them only in the cabin in airline approved carriers. Others will also allow larger animals in approved crates in the cargo area.

Traveling by train or bus is even more difficult. No national commercial carrier such as Amtrak, VIA Rail or Greyhound in North America will allow pets as passengers unless they are an Assistance Dog. There are some forms of public transportation in the United States and Canada that do welcome pets, but this will take a bit of work on your part to locate them. However, dogs of all sizes are permitted on short and long distance trains in England, France, Germany and most other European countries.

You may find it easiest to travel via your own personal vehicle. But please use your good common sense and follow your state and local laws in restraining your dog. Research has proven that a large number of automobile accidents are caused by unrestrained pets. Your dog could become a dangerous projectile in your vehicle as well as become seriously injured if you needed to stop suddenly. There are special car harnesses for dogs now available that can be used in conjunction with your seat belt to keep your pet safe and secure. There are also booster seats for small dogs with a built in harness restraint. A final option would be to use a portable dog crate and attach it with your seat belt system. However, this last option would not prevent your dog from being thrown against the side of the crate if you had to stop suddenly.

Make sure your dog has current vaccinations and take a copy of those records with you. Verify that their dog tags contain current information. Consider getting your dog chipped at your vet. Should your pet become lost, this will be a current high technology method of locating your pet. Your vet can also prescribe motion sickness medication for your pet if needed for traveling.

Take some time in planning and packing for your dog. Certainly you will need the everyday essentials: dog leash, bag for dog including hand sanitizer, supply of poop bags, treats, toys and training supplies and dog training bag. In addition pack your dog bowls, food supply and at least 2 gallons of water. Do not change your pet's diet while on vacation. Stick to the same food and the same feeding schedule. Also pack a doggie first aid kit containing gauze, antibiotic ointment and rubbing alcohol. Finally, if your pet uses a dog bed, consider taking this along. Verify that you have your dog's vaccination records and motion sickness medication, if needed.

Once you have made these proper preparations and you then add patience and flexibility to your list of virtues, you are set to take off and have a fantastic time. Have a wonderful time creating great memories of your adventure with your dog. Just remember to take lots of pictures.

Check out this unique bag for dog when you vacation with your dog. This handy dog bag can remain attached to your dog leash or moved to your belt or belt loops if you do not use a leash. Your bag will carry everything for you - your dog treats, toys, training supplies, empty and full poop bags, hand sanitizer and much more. Enjoy your vacation along with the convenience offered by this great dog bag.