Advice For Traveling With Your Puppy

Online, April 11, 2011 (Newswire.com) - We are going on a vacation! Only one problem - we have a new puppy.

We knew our lives were going to change with a new dog. Taking the dog on a road trip seemed to be pushing it a bit.

We had absolutely no idea what to expect and friends and family were trying to be helpful by giving stories about their part experiences, but to be honest, it was making me more and more anxious to the point where I considered canceling the trip or putting the dog in a kennel. Both options were not at all popular with my two kids.

I decided to do a little research and came across some truly fantastic articles that really put my mind at ease and allowed us to move forward and plan our vacation car trip that happily included our pet. My kids were thrilled and and I came out looking like a hero.

Here's one particular helpful article you really should read if you're feeling nervous about packing up your pup and heading off in the car on holiday. I've included the parts that specifically deal with car trips plus some other helpful suggestions, but this article also includes air travel and tons of other great things to keep in mind.

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How to Travel With Your Dog
By Jenna Stregowski, RVT,
http://dogs.about.com/od/travel/a/travelwithdogs.htm Guide""
Photo © Stacy Andrew

GETTING THERE
By Automobile

The automobile is usually the best way to travel with dogs. If you own a vehicle, chances are your dog has ridden in it for trips to the vets, the park and so on. If not, now is the time to start. Some dogs have anxiety over riding in cars. The more positive your dog's automobile experiences are, the more likely he will enjoy the rides. If your dog only rides in the car for vet visits, and he dislikes the vet, his anxiety is understandable.

Try taking him for short, frequent car rides that end up at the park, dog supply store (where he will get a toy or treat), or another pleasant place. If your dog does not adjust to the car, then a road trip is not a good option. If you must bring your dog for a long car ride, ask your vet about possible anti-anxiety medications that can make the trip a bit easier on everyone. Otherwise, you should seek out other options. Remember, medications should be used sparingly.

If you've decided that Rover can handle the trip, make sure you make all the proper arrangements.
Plan Ahead

Plot rest stops along the way while traveling with your dog, and plan to stop every 3-5 hours to allow your dog to relieve himself, drink water and stretch his legs (more or less depending on your dog's needs). Make a list of several veterinary hospitals that are easily accessible from your route, preferably within one hour's drive from any given point. Check that they will be open during your travel.

Bring for the car ride:
• Lists of rest stops and veterinary hospitals
• Leash
• Dog seat belt or crate / kennel
• Water and Bowls
• Treats
• One or two toys
• Blanket and/or dog bed
• Bags to pick up waste
• Medications, if applicable
• Your dog's medical records

ENJOYING YOUR STAY

Hotels and Dogs: If you will be staying at a hotel while traveling with your dog, cover all your bases in advance. A pet-friendly hotel is more than just one that allows pets - it is one that welcomes them. Some hotels offer special dog beds, turndown service (down to the treat on the pillow), dog spa services and doggie day care. Ask what amenities are available for your dog, but remember to find out what cost is involved. Many hotels charge a non-refundable pet deposit upon arrival, then a daily pet fee. Some even tack on a special cleaning fee. Bottom line, before you choose, do your research about pet-friendly hotels.

Bed and Breakfast / Inns for Dogs: Inns and B&Bs are typically not equipped for dogs. However, they do exist. It is essential that you know how to prepare for the trip prior to finalizing your plans. Learn about bringing your dog to a B&B, then look for a dog-friendly location.

Camping with Dogs: Camping with your dog can be the perfect way to spend time together while communing with nature. However, camping with dogs is not always a wise choice. Before you decide to bring your dog, make sure the campground you are considering actually allows dogs. Many state and national parks do not allow dogs. Above all, learn how to have fun and stay safe while camping.

BE PREPARED

Emergencies do not only happen close to home, they can also happen while traveling with your dog. Advance planning can make these emergencies less stressful. Before the trip, make a list of veterinary hospitals in the area where you will be staying, along with a map. If your dog shows sudden signs of illness, that list can help save your dog's life. Before you leave for your trip, make sure you have not forgotten anything. Use this list as a guide while you are packing. Add your own personal touch as needed.

1. Lists of rest stops and veterinary hospitals along your trip (if driving)
2. List of veterinary hospitals near the location where you are staying
3. Crate / kennel
4. Leash
5. Water and Bowls
6. Dog Food
7. Treats
8. One or two toys
9. Blankets and/or dog bed
10. Bags to pick up waste
11. First Aid Kit
12. Grooming supplies, if necessary
13. Medications, if applicable
14. Your dog's medical records (including vaccine history)
15. Health Certificate (obtain from your vet)

Now you're all set - be safe and enjoy your trip!

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Was I right or was I right. I bet you new traveling with a dog was going to be different, but I bet you had no idea the huge amount of thought that goes into planning a successful road trip. Once thing that really struck me when I set out to learn what I needed to do was the list of vets and rest spots along our route.

Truthfully, I just thought we'd stop on the side of the road and let our dog out for a pee, but the roads are really busy and the noise and traffic really scares the dog and lots of times they can't even squeeze out a pee. Also, thinking more about it after reading up, the possibility of our dog bolting away and getting hit by another car really scared me.

In the end, our family road trip vacation was a huge hit, and it was really great that we could bring our dog along to make some great memories for our family. I hope this info. was helpful and that you can use it to help your dog travel along with you.