Taking the annual family vacation has always included the children and, sometimes, the mother-in-law, but has not readily included the family pet. Fido is usually relegated to staying at home, wondering if his family will ever return. But it doesn’t have to be that way…if the trip is planned right the family pet can enjoy the vacation just as much as Grandma and everyone else.

Every part of the trip has to be evaluated as to how pet-friendly it will be. How will you be traveling? It’s important to note that not all flights will allow pets so the airline will have to be looked into. On most airlines, very small dogs and cats can travel with their owners in the cabin provided they can comfortably fit into a carrier that is 9 inches high, 13 inches wide, and 23 inches long (carry-on size). However, some airlines limit the total number of dogs that can fly in the cabin so if other travelers are flying with pets this can present a problem.

Of course driving avoids all these issues. Driving implies long periods of time confined to an automobile so it is essential that the family pet is comfortable the entire time. It’s a good idea to investigate before the long haul that your pet travels well and is not prone to motion sickness. Take him on short trips and see how he does, and then gradually increase the leisurely drives to see that Fido can handle it. Pets can take anti-motion sickness medication so keep some on hand if needed. It is also important to keep your pet on his regular feeding schedule and plan rest stops accordingly. Keeping a regular feeding schedule can help guard against digestion sensitivities compounded by the motion associated with driving. Keep toys in the car for your pet; preferably chew toys that will keep him happy. It’s also necessary to have an area where he can lie down and sleep.

Of course, all lodging must be looked into to find that it is friendly to pets. Sometimes hotels will only allow pets up to a certain weight. Also, there will be times when your pet will have to be left in the hotel room alone. It’s important that a dog is trained not to bark in these situations. Also, when leaving the hotel room, be sure to put out the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign and inform the front desk as to why. Dogs are especially prone to “guarding their territory” and unrecognized folks coming into the room may not be greeted so kindly.
If traveling to the beach or to National Parks, etc., be sure to look into the regulations on pets. Not all beaches allow pets, but information on specific pet regulations can be found on the Internet. The same holds true for National Parks. For the most part, pets of all sizes are allowed in National Parks but must be on a leash at all times and can never be left unattended while in the park. If hiking into backcountry, pets may not be allowed – it depends on the park. It is essential to look into these regulations.

Traveling with a pet can provide a memorable experience for the whole family. Think of all the photos where all the family members can be included that can be cherished forever. Basically, when traveling with a pet it’s important to plan the whole trip including your pet every step of the way and don’t assume one locale’s regulations will be the same as another’s. Always look into the rules of the specific establishment.

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