Tips for Traveling With Your Dog

If you are planning a trip and have decided to take your dog along, here are some helpful tips to make it easier and more enjoyable. 

Health and Safety:

·        Health checks. Bring your dog to your veterinarian for a check-up before going on any extended trip. Make sure all vaccinations are current, vaccine records are with you, and health certificates are required for airline travel. 

photo by Amanda Conrad

If traveling by car:

·        Plan to stop every 3-5 hours to allow your dog time to relieve himself, stretch his legs, and have a little water as needed (good idea for you too!). Make a list of vet clinics along the way, just in the event you need some help.

·        Bring along a leash and collar, along with Rabies tags, and identification, including phone numbers. 

·        It is a very good idea to have your pet micro-chipped at least one month prior to leaving to be sure the information is registered in the data base. Should your dog escape, you will be alerted once he/she is found.

                                        Home Again Microchip

·        Travel with food/water bowls, plus a large enough supply of the regular food and water if your pet is finicky about the water. Bottled water is always a good idea. 

·        Treats can come in handy!

No drip water bottles can be mounted inside or outside the kennel to provide water without spilling.  They come in a variety of sizes and styles like this convenient top fill bottle.

·        Blankets and toys will help them to feel at home when on the road – dogs always like the familiarity of home and the scent on those items will help them acclimate.

·        You should definitely bring enough waste pick up bags, and should be responsible to clean up after your pet wherever you go. 

·        If your pet is taking any medications on a regular basis, be sure to have enough medication with you. 

·        It is also a good idea to have your dog’s vaccine chart and any other medical records that may help if another veterinarian has to tend to any issues that arise. Another good idea is to have a recent photograph of your pet with you.  If you forget to bring records along, some information can be found on your pet portal.

                                     Kaukauna Veterinary Clinic Pet Portal

·        Crates/carriers are also a great idea for road travel, provided your dog has used them while at home. Most dogs like to have a comfy blanket in the crate or carrier, and that can help absorb any accidents that may happen. Be sure to have proper ventilation around the crate, as well as appropriate heating/cooling based on weather.  NEVER leave your pet alone in a closed vehicle, especially in the summer. 

Puppy pads can be used to line the kennel in case of accidents.  

Paper towel and a bottle of cleaner is helpful in case of accidents.

 Never let your dog loose in the open back of a pickup truck – this can lead to severe injuries or death. It is also recommended that dogs never be allowed to hang their head out of the window while riding in a car – foreign substances can lead to eye injuries. 

 If traveling by plane:

·        Air travel for dogs is not always a great idea, the larger dogs are not allowed to be with you so they must go in the cargo area. Dogs are not cargo and should not be treated as such. The temperature in most cargo areas is not controlled and your pet may suffer as a result of improper atmosphere. Most small dogs can be with you under the seat ahead of you, if they are in an approved carrier. Be sure any crate/carrier you use is marked with a LIVE ANIMAL sticker so it is not accidentally tipped over and the airline staff can look out for them. Some airlines will not transport animals when it is extremely hot or cold. Be sure to call the airline well in advance to see what they require for traveling with dogs. 

·        All airlines require health certificates and proof of vaccinations.

Lodging:

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 will provide additional services such as spa time or day care – ask about extra costs that may be involved. Some hotels will charge a pet deposit upon arrival, then a daily pet fee. Some may even have a special cleaning fee – do your research ahead of time so you won’t be caught off guard. 

·        Find out in advance which hotels/motels on your route allow dogs. Some will not allow them, some will have breed or size restrictions. 

·        If your dog is allowed to stay at a hotel, respect other guests, staff and the property.

·        Keep your dog as quiet as possible. 

·        Do not leave the dog unattended. Many dogs will bark or destroy property if left alone in a strange place.

·        Ask the management where you should walk your dog, and pick up after him/her. Do not leave any mess behind. 

·        Remember that one bad experience with a canine guest may prompt the hotel management to refuse to allow any dogs. Be considerate of others and leave your room and the grounds in good condition.

A properly and thoroughly planned trip with your dog can be very rewarding – many dogs love to travel and experience new environments. With proper planning and packing, you can make the experience very enjoyable for all of you and you will have the peace of mind knowing that your dog is in your care versus staying behind