How to Travel with Your Dog this Summer
If you're a dog owner who loves to travel, by far the most difficult part of your trip is leaving your four-legged friend behind. What if we told you that you didn't have to do that?
Because figuring out how to travel with your dog requires some extra planning, here are eight tips to help with overnight hotel stays and finding dog-friendly properties.
Understanding the hotels pet policy and subsequent fees...
When travelling with your dog, it's important to keep wary of the regulations set by the hotel(s) you are planning to visit. If you can, book the accommodation over the phone, this what you can ask specific questions about the hotel and better understand their regulations.
Before booking, make sure you enquire about any additional fees you will incur, and make sure you know the full rate before proceeding. Another good step is to ask if the hotel has a designated floor for pets, or if the entire hotel is pet-friendly. Following this, ask the hotel if they have dog walkers or sitters available for you to hire.
Research pet-friendly restaurants in the area...
If you can’t leave your dog alone in your room per the hotel’s policy, you’re going to want to find restaurants where you can bring your dog for meals. Most hotels can provide a list of nearby restaurants that allow pets, and typically if the hotel is pet-friendly, at least some part of its lobby bar or onsite restaurant will be too.
I’ve also found that most restaurants with outdoor seating will allow dogs as long as they are leashed and stay around the perimeter. However, the weather doesn’t always allow for this, so it’s wise to have a back-up plan—like room service or takeout.
Sticking to a routine is key...
Dogs are creatures of habit, so it’s important to stick to your pet’s routine when you travel. Feed them at the same time, place the dog bed in a similar spot as it is at home, and give them plenty of exercise. One of the first things you should do when you get to the hotel is find a green space for them to go to the bathroom.
Research dog-friendly activities in the area...
Some suggested dog-friendly activities while on vacation include hiking, walking along a running or bike path, breweries (call ahead to make sure they’re pet-friendly), markets, beaches, and outdoor parks and monuments. The more tired your pup is, the better they’ll sleep at the hotel.