Planning for a Pet-Friendly Destination

One of the top resolutions people have is to travel more. Some destinations are more dog friendly than others. How should you make your decision when deciding where to go?

First, decide where you want to go and what you want to do because your choice determines some of the questions to ask. For example, you wouldn’t ask if dogs are allowed on beaches if you’re going to the desert!

After ensuring the health and safety of your pet before you leave home (You have had him checked out by a vet first, right???), please remember that each decision you make should include what damage your pet can do, how your pet may disturb others, and how to minimize or avoid these instances so that pets continue to be welcome there in the future. Since many people travel with dogs, we’re going to be concentrating on dogs in this article, but much of the information pertains to other pets.

If you’re flying or going by train, then find out their rules first – what vaccine and health certificates are needed, whether your pet needs to be crated, etc.

If you’re going by car or RV, decide where you will be staying – which is at a hotel, camp ground, or an RV site – both en route and at your destination. Again, research beforehand what each place’s rules and regulations regarding pets are before your trip.

Since most people travel by car and stay in a hotel, ask these specific questions:

• Does your hotel accept pets?
• Do you have weight or breed restrictions?
• How many pets are allowed in a room?
• Do you charge additional pet fees, or are pets allowed to stay free of charge?
• Do you charge a deposit in case of damage?
• Do you have specific rooms for pets?
• Is it okay for my pet to be left alone in my room? If so, then must he be crated or confined?
• Are there any areas in your hotel off limits to pets?
• Does your hotel offer
  • Welcome kit - If so, what does it contain?
    • A bed with clean linens
    • Food and water bowls
    • Treats
    • Toy(s)
    • Waste bags
  • In-hotel amenities
    • Dog showers or grooming facilities
    • Pedicures
    • Pet sitting
    • Dog walking
    • Massages or reiki
  • Doggie room-service menu
  • Doggie social hour
  • Designated potty area
  • Fenced dog run or park
  • Onsite dog-sitting and/or dog walking

You can also investigate nearby activities or places that not only permit but welcome dogs, such as

• Beaches, lakes and rivers, wading pools, and other doggie swimming areas
• Boat, pontoon, raft rides, paddleboats, cruises, ferries, canoes, kayaks
• Camp sites and picnic areas that are fenced
• Dog park, local parks, or state parks that allow dogs
• Dog sports (Here are a few.)
  • Agility
  • Dock diving
  • Herding
  • Surfing
• Fishing holes
• Hiking and biking trails
• Local transportation such as shuttles
• Movies
• Orchards where you can pick your own fruit
• Pet parades, fairs, flea markets
• Restaurants
• Shopping centers, malls, and local shops
• Walking tours
• Wineries, restaurants, and outdoor cafes
• Yoga, reiki, and massage

And then, of course, what doggie services are located nearby such as

• Day care
• Doggy bakery
• Grooming
• Mobile food truck
• Pet sitting/dog walking
• Pet stores
• Veterinarians

Now that you’ve made all those choices, it’s time to choose your destination, pack, and enjoy your trip!