Everyone looks forward to their annual vacation, but many dog owners hate the thought of leaving their pets behind, as they head off into the sunset. While pet owners have a choice of a number of options to care for their pet in their absence, from live-in house sitters or pet-sitters that will drop in daily to feed and care for their pooch, to kennels, doggie hotels and the like, it can still be a heart wrenching experience leaving a beloved family member behind. So why not consider traveling with your dog?

It is becoming more common for dog owners to take their pets along for the ride. There are travel agents that cater exclusively for pet travel, and many holiday resorts and establishments are becoming pet friendly to cater for guests that are traveling with pets, taking advantage of this market.

So you’ve taken care of Fido’s travel arrangements, booked him into the hotel where you will be staying, packed his favorite food, treats and toys, so that he can join you while you hike up the mountain, or frolic on the beach while holidaying away from home. But there are a few things that you need to consider to keep you pet safe while traveling in unfamiliar territory.

Tips for Traveling with Your Dog

Below are some tips to ensure that your pet remains safe on his travels.

1. Make sure that your dog’s vaccinations are up to date, and if you are traveling to an area that requires a rabies vaccination, that your pet is protected. Many pet friendly establishments will request a copy of your dog’s vaccination certificate to prevent spread of disease amongst other pets.
2. Ensure that your pet crate is large enough to enable your dog to travel in comfort; that it is lockable and secure to prevent your pet escaping while in transit; and that it meets the requirements of the airline you are using, if your pet is traveling by air.
3. Make sure that your dog is fitted with a sturdy collar and leash, and that it bears an identification tag with your dog’s name, as well as your name and telephone number. Better still, get your vet to fit your pet with a microchip for permanent identification.
4. Take a recent photo of your pet with you just in case he should get lost.
5. When traveling with your dog it is important that you ensure that you have some method of confining your dog when you get to your destination. There are portable dog fencing options, such as electric dog fences that will enable you to contain your dog, to ensure his safety while you are away from home. Portable electric pet fencing is lightweight, and battery powered options are available, allowing you to move the fence around easily. This will enable you to contain your dog wherever you are – whether you are down at the beach, swimming in the hotel pool, or sipping sun-downers on the deck – ensuring that you enjoy your holiday without worrying whether Fido is going to dash off unexpectedly.

Dogs are much loved, loyal family members, and they deserve to be included in the family’s annual holiday. Traveling with your dog can be an enjoyable experience for both you and your pet. Take your pet along by all means, but be sure to take measures that will ensure their safety and well-being when they are away from home, to prevent your dream holiday from becoming a nightmare.

Bon Voyage…!

Image Credits

Surfing Dog By Frank Kovalchek [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Cruising Dog By Rhys Moult [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Flickr