Travelling With Your Dog
Some people will use their pets as an excuse for not taking a holiday. However for those pet owners that do go on holiday then every year there is the same question of “what to do about their pet.” Should you take him or leave him?
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Your pet, as a member of the family is entitled to share the fun of travelling. On the other hand, some pets can take all the pleasure out of a trip.
Everyone needs space and their own time, even your pet. Think before you decide. A week or two in a clean, well-run boarding kennel might be your dog’s idea of a perfect vacation!
Travelling With Your Dog
Car Riding
A dog should be thoroughly familiar with riding in a car before you consider taking him or her on a long trip.
After a few rides around town most dogs overcome their motion sickness and begin to enjoy riding with the family. Start with short journeys and build up.
If your pet does not travel well and continues to get sick or restless, consider a boarding kennel. Don’t take a sick or unhappy dog on a trip. Both you and your pets will be miserable.
Travelling With Your Dog
Misbehaving Dog
This also applies to a dog you cannot control or who misbehaves. With a misbehaving dog not only will it not be a holiday for you but you will annoy everyone you come in contact with. You can’t put misbehaving kids in a kennels but for a misbehaving dog maybe it is the right place for him.
However if you decide to take him along keep in mind these important tips when travelling with your dog.
Travelling With Your Dog
Hotel Reservations
Be sure to make your hotel reservations well in advance, advising that you will have a dog with you. This could save much time and aggravation.
Make the same enquiries about where the dog will be kept and welfare as you would your own accommodation.
Automobile clubs and hotel/motel guides often list facilities that accept dogs.
Own Bowl
Take along your pet’s own bowl. Use it for water and mixing his food. He will have an added feeling of security using his regular bowl.
Feeding
Try not to feed your pet for six or more hours prior to travelling. Most dogs travel better on this feeding schedule.
Travelling With Your Dog
Blanket
Also take along a square of old blanket or his sleeping pad. This is your dog’s travel bed in the car and hotel/motel. After you’ve shown him a few times, he’ll understand.
Collars
Your dog should wear two collars: One light chain-choke collar and a leather collar, rolled or flat. Put an identification tag on one. Some places you visit either in Europe or the United States or Canada may require you to display a local dog license. This is where you would put it so even if one collar is lost, your dog could more easily be identified with the other even if already identity chipped.
Fleas
A can of flea powder is a must. Your pet may start out without a single flea, but he could pick some up along the way. You don’t want fleas in your car, and the hotel or motel doesn’t want them either.
Travelling With Your Dog
Out The Window
Some dogs insist on hanging their heads out the window.
Don’t permit this, as bits of grit may be driven into the eyes. In any case, the dog may get nasal and eye passage inflammation just from the wind. Keep him in his place and close the windows part way to discourage him.
In bad cases it may require a visit to the vet so by preventing it you are doing yourself a favour by avoiding vets bills.
Travelling With Your Dog
Rabies
If you intend to travel between several US States or Canadian Provinces or in Europe, check with your veterinarian or humane society to find whether health certificates and proof of rabies vaccination are required. Most States, Provinces and European countries require some form of health certificate. A rabies vaccination certificate is definitely required to enter UK.
Conduct
Wherever you go, remember that you are responsible for your dog’s conduct.
The impression you make on hotel and motel managers will determine their attitude toward all dogs and dog owners.
Kept On A Lead
Responsible dog owners will already be aware that dogs should be kept on a lead, especially on holiday. This not only to prevent nuisance but to prevent contact with other dogs that may be carrying rabies.
Travelling With Your Dog
Muzzles
Always carry two muzzles. One on your dog and one as a spare. It is a legal requirement in many places and some restaurants that allow dogs will not let you enter unless the dog is muzzled. It is also a requirement to have a dog muzzled on ferries and planes.
If your dog does not normally wear a muzzle remember to get one several weeks before you go travelling so that your dog gets used to it and considers it just normal to wear it.
Planning, Courtesy & Enjoyment
By planning ahead and observing the rules of courtesy, you can take your dog with you anywhere. If your pet enjoys car travel, you and your family can a expect a most enjoyable trip.
See Doggy Tips On The Travel Tips Page
Travelling With Your Dog