Away on vacation - Travel free resources » Dog Friendly Vacations

Vacationing With A Well Behaved Dog

Maxx — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 04:02:55 +0000

If you take tour dog on vacation, you will inevitably run into signs at dog parks and other dog friendly areas that say "well behaved dogs welcome." Many hotels specify that dogs must be well behaved to stay as well as campgrounds and other lodging options. But how much does well behaved have to do with the dog, isn't it important that an owner be well behaved as well? It takes a lot to have a well behaved dog, and if you do not think your dog meets thing description, you should work with him or consider obedience classes before bringing him with you on vacation.

Really having a well behaved dog applies to the owner as well. An owner who does not pick up after their dog or lets their dog run loose and uncontrolled is just as at fault as their dog is. Dogs are required by law in most places to be on leash in public unless they are in designated park areas. People who do not like dogs or parents with small children will not appreciate dogs running around and bothering them. People have to expect to encounter dogs in dog parks and other areas where dogs are allowed to run loose, but owners should always supervise their dog and never allow them to run loose if they are aggressive to either people or animals.

Well behaved dogs do not relieve themselves just anywhere, and well behaved dog owners find suitable places for their dogs to go and pick up after them. Plenty of municipalities fine dog owners for leaving messes just as they do for dogs that run loose. Responsible dog owners should teach their dogs not to go anywhere and give them plenty of chances to relieve themselves in appropriate areas. If enough people disregard leash and clean up rules, places will quickly begin banning.

A well behaved dog should not be aggressive towards any one, and you need to know how your dog will react in public places. Nothing is worse that trying to take a relaxing vacation and visiting a dog park only to be terrorized or have your dog be terrorized by another dog. Do not let your dog be the one who starts the fight as this can lead to fines of being banned form the park. Dogs will experience many new sights, sounds, situations while on vacation with you, and it is important to get them used to it before you leave. Be sure you know how your dog will react so everyone will be safe.

Barking is another issue that is used to separate "bad" dogs form "well behaved dogs." Hotel guests do not appreciate a dog left in a hotel room that barks incessantly, or one who barks all nigh even with their owner present. Sure, all dogs bark now and then but continuous barking that will annoy others is generally considered bad behavior. Make sure your dog does not have these issues before you take him on vacation with you and if he does resolve them before you leave.

How To Prepare For Your Road Trip With Fido

Maxx — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 04:44:55 +0000

Vacationing with your dog should be an enjoyable experience for both of you. Most of the time, driving to your destination is easier and less stressful than flying. Make sure you make the proper preparations for your dog before you leave on your trip.

Make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date. Even if they are, you will need to get a rabies and bordatella vaccines a few weeks before you travel is you are going to be crossing state lines. If your destination is a camping, hiking, or other outdoors trip, you may want to consider getting your dog a Lyme disease vaccination as well. Your vet can determine if your dog needs one based on where you are going.

Make sure you have all your dog's necessities. It is a good idea to pack a few gallons of water and a large bag of dog food. There is no guarantee that you will be able to stop regularly and purchase these items so it is better safe than sorry. Do not forget your dog's bowls either. Some dogs will not eat any food other than their regular brand or the stress of the trip combined with a new food will cause them to have stomach upset and diarrhea.

It is also a good idea to bring your dog's comfort items form home like his blanket, bed, or favorite toy. Even if your dog loves going for rides around town, they can become stressed on long trips and these items will go a long way in calming them. Bring an extra leash, collar, and tags. If you loose any of these items, you will be glad you packed them. Having an extra leash will also allow you to tie your dog outside if you are going to be spending much time out doors. Having a first aid kit in the car is a good idea anyway, but it is especially important when you are traveling with your dog. It is easy for dogs to cut their feet on glass and debris during roadside stops and it is better to be safe than sorry.

You should also travel with your dog's veterinary records and other identifying paper work. If you are traveling to Canada or Mexico, they will be required. You also never know if you will have to take your dog to a veterinary clinic while traveling or otherwise need proof of vaccinations. Some hotels require that you have your dog's veterinary records and all kennels require them as well. If your dog is pure bred it also cannot hurt to travel with their breed paperwork.

You might want to consider micro chipping your dog if you travel with him frequently, and whether your dog is micro chipped or not make sure he wears ID tags at all times. You should also make your hotel reservations in advance to make sure you can get a pet friendly room. If you follow these travel tips, your vacation with your dog will be an enjoyable one.

Flying With Your Dog

Maxx — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 04:02:55 +0000

If you are flying to your vacation destination, you can safely bring your dog with you. While there are horror stories of airlines loosing animals and deaths upon arrival, the majority of dogs that fly arrive at their destination safely and no worse for the wear. If you want to bring your dog with you on a flight, keep these tips in mind to make your pets trip a safe and easy one.

You should thoroughly research your flying options well in advance of your trip. Pick an airline and families yourself with their live animal transport guidelines. All airlines require that your dog has a bill of health certifying him safe to fly from your veterinarian within ten days or so of flight. The prices for transporting your pet vary between airlines and with the size of your pet. You should expect to pay between 50 and 100 dollars unless you have a Great Dane or other huge breed. If you have a small dog, they can usually travel under your seat in their crate or on the seat next to you in their crate. You will either have to pay extra or purchase another seat. You should talk to your vet before you leave about sedating your pet. Some people think sedating a dog for a flight is a good idea and others do not. Get your vets opinion and make sure your dog will not suffer any ill effects.

Make your reservation in advance and make sure you include your pet. Most airlines have a limited amount of cargo space for live animals and if the flight you want is already full, you will have to make other arrangements. Make sure you arrive early to the airport, an hour and a half before departure is good. Walk your dog before he is boarded. There is no reason why your dog should be boarded more than a half and hour before your flight leaves so do not let them take him too early. You will want to make sure you dog has had a chance to go to the bathroom and stretch. You must also have an airline approved crate. It is a good idea to put stickers on your crate directing which side is up and to make it highly visible. You should also label your dog's crate with your name, address, phone number, fight number, and destination.

Try to avoid flying when the whether is very hot or very cold. You are required to provide a food and water bowl inside your dogs kennel although being able to eat and drink may make your dog prone to soil the inside of his kennel. An alternative to putting food and water inside your dogs kennel is to pack some separately in a bag attached to the kennel and leaving feeding instructions during your layover if you have one. Better yet, if you have a lengthy layover request to feed, water, and walk you dog yourself. Do not be afraid to inquire about how your dog is doing, especially on a lengthy flight. You should also not hesitate to wait at the gate and make sure your dog is loaded before you board the plane. These tips will make your dog's flight a safe and happy one.

Dining Out With Your Dog While On Vacation

Maxx — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:58:55 +0000

If you are taking a vacation that includes your dog, you will probably want to include him in as many activities as you can. Most major cities have outdoor dining options where you can bring your dog and you can even find restaurants that allow your dog indoors and cater specifically to your pooch. You can also order in and enjoy a meal with your dog or take your food to a park or other outdoor location so that your dog can be included.

Be warned, however, not all restaurants that have outdoor seating allow you to bring your dog, especially if you have to walk through the inside to get to the out door seating. Even if a restaurant has sidewalk seating or a similar arrangement make sure you enquire if they allow dogs before planning to have your meal there. Some establishments will allow you to order food inside and then take it to tables out side and others offer full service no matter where your table is located. You can usually find dog friendly restaurant recommendations at your hotel or in a visitors guide. Research your destination before you leave and find places that both you and your dog can go to make your trip easier once you arrive.

Restaurants that have outdoor seating or require you to order food inside and then bring it outside are the most likely establishments to allow dogs. If you would prefer to have waiter service, there are plenty of restaurants that will serve you and your dog outside, or in some cases inside. When you do find a restaurant that allows dogs, make sure you follow some basic dog dining etiquette to make your dining experience, and the experience of others a pleasant one.

As much as you love your dog, you should only attempt to bring them to a restaurant with you if they are well behaved. If they are prone to bark, lunge, or try to steal food, you should leave them at the hotel or in a kennel. If you are determined to take your dog with you and you have these problems, obedience classes will usually clear up these problems for future vacations.

Make sure your dog remains on the leash at all times so he cannot bother other diners or employees. You should keep your dog as close to you as possible so that he is not in the way of waiters and people trying to move around. Resist the temptation to tie your dog to the table, if he is a large dog he will probably be able to shake the table or even pull it over. Secure him to your chair instead. You should also bring your dog his own bowl unless you know for a fact that the restaurant you are visiting has a menu especially for dogs. Although many restaurants welcome dogs, very few allow them to be on chairs and tables so keep this in mind and keep your dog on the floor. As long as your dog is well behaved and you find a dog friendly restaurant, your dining experiences during your vacation should be great ones.

Challenges Of Taking A Beach Vacation With Your Dog

Maxx — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:30:55 +0000

Both people and dogs love to visit the beach. A beach vacation is a great destination for both you and your dog, although it can be hard to find dog friendly beaches. Most Major beach cities have at least a small beach that allows dogs, but more and more municipalities are banning dogs form their beaches especially in the spring and summer seasons. There are many reasons for this, and one of the biggest reasons is became enough owners disregarded leash laws that cities decided to ban dogs all together. Before you head out on your beach vacation with your dog, make sure you know for sure which beaches in the area you are traveling allow dogs.

Some of the problems that cause trouble in dog friendly beaches have to do with owners not paying attention to their dogs or not having them under control. Even a few instances of a dog running lose and bothering other beach goers will usually ruin it for everyone else. Even if the beach you are visiting allows dogs off leash, make sure your dog will respond to your commands every time or keep them on the leash. Nothing can ruin a vacation faster than an encounter with an unruly dog. It is especially important to make sure your dog will not bother other people on the beach unless he is invited. It is possible to be fined if you disobey beach rules and allow your dog to run wild or do not follow the rules. Another hot button issue at many dog beaches is cleaning up after your dog. With so many dogs allowed to run in usually a small area, waste can accumulate fast. As with disregarding leash laws, not cleaning up after your dog can ruin the beach for everyone else. Always bring bags with you so that you can properly dispose of your dogs waste. You should also make sure you give you dog your full attention the entire time you are at the beach. If you would rather lay and sunbath, then you might want to consider leaving your dog at home. Not properly supervising your dog can allow them to bother other people and to leave messes.

There are other issues you should consider as well before you take your dog to the beach. Besides etiquette, you should make sure your dog stays safe. Sand and salt water can take a tool on your dogs coat and skin so it is a good idea to rinse them off with fresh water after your beach visit. Even if your dog is a great swimmer, they can still be carried off by rip tides as people can. Do not let your dog swim out too far either because dogs can tire as well and have a hard time making it back to shore. There are plenty of interesting sights and smells on the beach for your dog and these can be very tempting. Make sure your dog does not eat any shells, sticks, or dead sea creatures as they can damage your dog's stomach, intestines, or make him sick. As long as you follow the rules and supervise your dog, your beach vacation will be an enjoyable one.

International Travel With Your Dog

Maxx — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 03:41:55 +0000

Vacationing with your dog can be complicated, and if you are planning to take your dog on an international trip, expect even greater complications. Every country has their own set of rule and regulations governing animals entering the country, some are very lax and others are strict. Some countries have health issues to consider like rampant rabies and other diseases that you should be aware of. Some countries have such lengthy quarantine rules that it is pointless to try to bring your dog along while on vacation.

Make sure you plan your trip well in advance if you are bringing your dog and you know exactly what is required to bring your dog into the country you are vacationing in. If you do not have the proper paperwork, your vacation can easily be hindered or ruined. International laws do change so it is important that you know the most current regulations even if your have traveled to the country before.

Some countries require lengthy quarantines and it is hardly worth it to try to bring your dog with you. Australia is one of the strictest countries when it comes to accepting pets from abroad. All dog must be quarantined for at least 30 days and undergo extensive medical testing to ensure they are healthy, Unless you are taking an extended vacation or moving to Australia, it is better that you leave your dog at home. China is another country that requires lengthy quarantine. You must quarantine your dog in a USDA facility for 30 days prior to travel, which makes it hardly worth it for a short vacation. Great Britain requires pets to be quarantined for six months unless they meet specific requirements so make sure you find out what your pet needs to be able to forgo quarantine.

Japan only requires a twelve hour quarantine, which is much more suitable for a short vacation. Other countries require proof of vaccinations and health certificates, but do not required dogs to be quarantined at all. Mexico, Canada, and Brazil are a few countries that do not require quarantine periods for dogs.

You should also be aware that some countries prohibit certain breeds form entering at all. Even though your dog may be well behaved, if it is a pit bull, chow, or other fighting breed it may not be allowed in the country at all. Make sure you research any banned breeds in the country you are traveling to as well as travel regulations.

Traveling by plane can be a harrowing experience for a dog, and international flights are especially long and can expose your dog to temperature extremes. Make sure you are traveling during a time when temperatures will not be too hot of too cold and that you make arrangements for your dog to be fed if your trip is going to be 10 hours or more. Even though vacationing with your dog can be enjoyable, if your are traveling out of the country you should consider all the challenges and make sure bringing your dog is worth the extra stress on both him and you.

What To Expect From Dog Friendly Hotels

Maxx — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 02:39:55 +0000

The amenities and services of dog friendly hotels vary widely. Some hotels have special menus for dogs, offer complimentary dog beds, pet sitting, and even dog robes. Others just allow you to let your dog stay in your room and offer nothing else. Some hotels allow pets to stay at no extra charge but you should expect to pay from $50 to $100 extra for your stay or even $20 or so extra a night so that your dog can stay with you. The most important thing to remember when traveling with your pet is to make reservations well in advance so that you know you can get a dog friendly room.

One of the premier dog friendly hotels located in a popular vacation spit is the Hotel Monaco in Seattle. This hotel is an example of a dog friendly hotel with all the extras. They feature a pet room service menu along with a traditional menu for people. The hotel also provides guests with a list of local pet friendly attractions, parks, restaurants, and transportation. The Hotel Monaco also offers complimentary leashes, bowls, crates, and dog jackets to use during your stay. They also have pet sitting services for a fee and toys and treats available.

Other noteworthy dog friendly hotels include the Loews Hotel chain. These hotels are located around the country in popular vacation destinations. The Loews Hotels offer local information on dog friendly restaurants, attractions and parks. They also offer complimentary things such as bowls, toys, and treats. You can even use the hotels dog walking and pet sitting services. They will check on your dog while you are gone and notify you in case of emergency.

Before you check into your dog friendly hotel, make sure your pet is current with his vaccinations. Some hotels require proof of vaccinations and even health certificates. Your dog should also be well behaved and not aggressive or bark incessantly. If your dog is quiet and low energy, he will probably not mind being left in your room. If your pet has anxiety or lots of energy, make sure he does not stay in your room for long periods unattended so he can enjoy your vacation as well. Even if you do pay extra to have your dog stay with you, you will have to pay for damages caused by your pet so make sure he is crated and has thing to play with and chew on while in your hotel room.

Bringing your dog along with you on vacation can be a wonderful idea. Just make sure you make accommodations well in ahead because dog friendly hotels tend to fill up fast, especially during peak travel times. If you have any doubts that your dog will not behave or do well on a long trip, do a trial run closer to home to see how he will cope and to prepare him for your trip, this way you will know before you get hundreds of miles from home if there will be a problem.

Key West Fl A Great Dog Friendly Vacation

Maxx — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:07:55 +0000

There is something for everyone in Key West, including dog owners and their four legged friends. This vacation hot spot may not seem like the perfect place to go on vacation with your pooch, but there are plenty of dog friendly hotels and dining establishments so that your dog can have a good time along with you. You will not run out of things to do in Key West and it is a great place to take your dog. You can easily find dog friendly hotels and there are even plenty of restaurants that welcome dogs as well.

Although Keys West is a small city (only 4 miles by 2 miles), there is no shortage of things to do. There are plenty of water activities and beautiful beaches to explore. Key West also has museums and galleries if you want to take in some sights while your dog rests. There is plenty of out door shopping so your dog can tag along and enjoy the sights with you. Key West has over 300 dining establishments so you will not run out of places to eat. Many of Key West's restaurants have out door seating or welcome dog's inside, so your dog can grab a bite along with you. If you are bringing your dog with you to dinner, consider visiting Turtle Kraals, Louie's Backyard, or Pepe's Bar and Restaurant, all welcome your four-legged friend. Make sure your dog will not bother the other patrons and remember that they are required to be on leash.

There are also plenty of dog friendly accommodations in Key West. You can find Hotels and Bed and Breakfast's that will welcome your dog. You can find simple accommodations for travelers that will not be spending much time in their room anyway, or you can get extravagant accommodations including a pool and all the amenities. Whether you want accommodations that are simple or extravagant, there is something for you and your dog in Key West. Make sure you inquire before you leave if your hotel accepts pets and make reservations in advance to ensure that you and Fido will get a room.

While you and your dog are in Key West, do not miss the biggest doggie attraction, Dog Beach. This small beach is located on the corner of Vernon and Waddell just below South Street. This charming little beach welcomes dogs and your pooch can run and play with other dogs off leash. Since dogs are allowed off leash, make sure your dog has some manners! Nothing can ruin your vacation experience faster than an aggressive dog in the dog park. You can chat with the locals while your dog plays and walk to area restaurants with your dog after your frolic is done.

Florida is a popular vacation destination for many reasons, and if you want to bring your dog along, Key West is a great place to go. Just make sure your dog is healthy enough to travel and their temperament is suitable for meeting new people and experiencing new places.

Things To Think About Before Traveling With Your Dog

Maxx — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 06:22:55 +0000

If you are a dog owner, chances are you dream of taking that perfect vacation with Fido in tow. Vacations with dogs can be extremely fun and relaxing, or they can turn into a nightmare. You have to do the right planning and assess your dog prior to leaving to make sure your vacation will be a fun and memorable one, but not for the wrong reasons. Make sure you ask yourself a few questions about your dog and your expectations on your trip to make sure you are on the right vacation track. Depending on your personality and your dog's personality, you may be able to find the perfect vacation for both of you or you mat decided that it is better to leave your dog at home.

No matter where you are traveling, you will have to plan for regular toilet breaks, make sure you have dog friendly accommodations, and are able to take regular walks so that you do not deviate too much from your regular routine. Make sure these considerations will fit into your schedule before you pack up your dog. Your idea of a vacation may not be your dog's idea of a vacation. Dogs still need plenty of attention and exercise while traveling. If your idea of a vacation is lying by the pool all day or shopping until you drop, your dog may not be happy waiting around all day. If you have a small dog or a low energy breed, they may not mind, but that is why it is important to consider your dog's personality as well. If your dog is shy or skittish around people or new situations, they are not prime travel companions and would probably prefer to stay home where they will feel secure. If your dog barks incessantly while you are not home, you should be prepared to take him with your everywhere you go, as your hotel will not appreciate a barking dog. If your dog is not well behaved or aggressive, taking him on your vacation is also not a good idea. While the idea of including him seems like a good one, dealing with the problems that are bound to arise from his presence are probably not worth it.

Make sure your vacation is one that both you and your dog can enjoy. Low energy dogs will fit right in on city trips and will not mind being lazy with you. If you have a high-energy dog, a camping or hiking trip is something that you both can enjoy. There are many hotels that will welcome your dog but you need to make arrangements before you leave that include your dog. Beach vacations are also great vacations in which to include your dog. If you do a little research you can find beaches that allow dogs, and every dog loves to frolic on the beach as much as their owner.

If you decide that your dog's temperament is suitable for travel, make sure you plan your trip before you leave. Resist the temptation to just go and see what happens, although there are many dog friendly hotels and attractions it is better to have reservations and an literary so that your trip can be more enjoyable.

Going On An Outdoor Vacation With Your Dog

Maxx — Mon, 05 May 2008 22:29:55 +0000

If you love the outdoors, a hiking or camping vacation is the perfect vacation for you and your dog. Outdoor vacations lend perfectly to the inclusion of your dog and many times are easier to coordinate than destinations that require hotels. No matter what type of vacation your are going on, make sure your dog is current on his vaccinations and wears ID tags at all times.

If you are going on an outdoor vacation, make sure you prepare your dog before you leave. If you intend to do some serious walking, make sure you get your dog used to long periods of walking before you leave if your dog is not accustomed to it already. You should also research the places you want to go to make sure dogs are allowed on hiking trails and in campgrounds. Another important thing to bring along with you is a first aid kit for both you and your dog. Camping and hiking are both activities that lend themselves to injuries so make sure you are prepared.

Remember your dog in your preparations with plenty of food, water, and portable bowls or containers to eat and drink out of. If your dog may be burning more calories than normal, so you may want to feed him a bit more as well. You should also bring extra necessities such as leashed, collars, and ID tags incase you loose a set. If you have a medium or large dog, a great way to have him contribute to your trip is to have him carry his own belongings. Most dogs love to don backpacks and carry things; it makes them feel important and gives them a job to do.

If you are going to be visiting an area with especially rocky or rough terrain, you should consider getting your dog boots or at least check his feet pads periodically. Dogs that are not accustomed to walking on this type of terrain are prone to injure their feet. Large dogs should have no problem keeping up with you if you hike but smaller dogs will need to rest or can even benefit from a small wearable carrier if they get too fatigued. If your dog is elderly of not in the best of health, an outdoor trip might no be the best idea for them.

You also need to consider the comfort and safety of others, so if your dog is aggressive or prone to incessant barking you should leave them home. You also need to clean up after your dog and either dispose of or bury their waste. Bring your dog items from home so that they can feel secure. Most pet owners have no problem sharing their tent with their dog but if prefer not to, make sure your dog has a comfortable place to sleep or a portable kennel if it will be cold at night. Your outdoor vacation should be a time of fun and relaxation where both you and your dog can enjoy nature. Make sure you are properly prepared and that you and your dog are considerate of others to make the most of your vacation.