Travel Plans with Pets in Mind

You’ll find that Fido can have just as much fun seeing the world as you can, and that it’s not nearly as stressful as you might think to bring him along!

Step 1: Pick a Place
As with any vacation, the first decision that needs to be made is where you are traveling. If Fido is going to be joining you for the journey, it’s best that you probably pick a pet-friendly destination. Finding these spots isn’t too difficult, either.
For starters, you can consider one of these 10 pet friendly vacations. While many of these places aren’t the mainstream vacation destinations you’d imagine, they just might do the trick to provide you and your pet refreshment and respite from the daily grind of everyday life. In many of these areas, pet friendly lodging accommodations are available, and there are a variety of pet friendly activities to keep Fido occupied.
If you’re opposed to traveling too far off the beaten path, one of these top 10 pet friendly U.S. cities should do the trick to provide a change of scenery not too far removed from civilization.

Step 2: Find a Place to Stay
Once you’ve got a destination picked, you next need to find a place to stay while you’re there. Stressful, right? Not so much.
If you’re traveling to any of the 10 vacation spots suggested, there are a whole slew of local pet friendly lodging areas at your fingertips.
If you’re traveling elsewhere, there’s no need to fret, either. These 10 pet friendly hotel chains, including the likes of Best Western, Embassy Suites, and Double tree, are situated in most areas across the country. Once you’ve got a location in mind, check to see if any of these hotel chains are nearby. Call ahead to confirm their pet policy, but once confirmed book a room and get excited for your upcoming trip.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Trip
Once your lodging is booked, you’ll need to start preparing your pet for your trip with essential travel supplies.
Pack necessary health certificates, medications, food, leashes, ID tags and other items your pet may need on a day-to-day basis.

Step 4: Getting There
With your destination chosen and your lodging booked, it’s now time to figure out how to get to where you want to go. And there are a couple of different options.
If you find the place you call home far away from your destination, flying is probably your best bet. Many airlines have varying pet policies, so it’s best to call ahead and find out what a specific airline’s policy is before you book a flight with them.
If you’re going to be flying, visit your vet to get the all-clear for plane travel.
If you’re close to where you’re going, driving may be a viable option. Just ensure that your pet is acquainted with the car before you head out.
You can get Fido accustomed to car travel by taking him on a few short car trips to places that are fun for him, so that the association is made between a good time and getting in the car.

Step 5: Plan Activities and Have Fun
From heading out for walks on the beach to enjoying what your destination’s local dog parks have to offer, there are a whole host of activities for you and Fido to enjoy together.
Make a dog-friendly itinerary before you leave, and remember to have fun with Fido on your trip.

For more info and events, visit Pet Friendly North America!