You, Me, and the Open Road: Taking a Pet-Friendly Vacation
Aug 05, 2024
Two things can ease a stressed-out mind, and it’s vacation and pets. Combine those two concepts into one, and you have yourself the recipe for some happy times. Of course, it’s not that simple. Vacation time has become more and more important for modern adults, especially with how hectic things can get.
Add to that the complexities of a pet such as packing enough food, and cleaning up after them, and that’s more things to worry about. Some people can’t seem to find the balance between enjoying themselves on vacation and fussing over their furbabies. Even so, the health benefits of a proper vacation make all the effort worth it. Thankfully, there are great strategies for maximizing your pet-friendly getaway.
Planning for Your Pet-Friendly Vacation
When planning your pet-friendly vacation, there are a lot of things to consider. Far from just bringing food and diapers, pet planning expands to where the pet will stay and how to acclimate them to new surroundings. Here are some of the most essential needs to consider when going on a pet-friendly vacation:
Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations
A few days away from all those stressors at a relaxing retreat for you and your fur baby makes all the difference. When selecting a place to stay, make sure it’s pet-friendly, meaning someone won’t suddenly turn you away once they see your furry friend ambling up. Book your vacation resting spot somewhere that explicitly allows pets. Some places even offer special amenities like beds, treats, and in-house veterinary care.
Always check the pet policy beforehand, including any additional fees or restrictions on pet size and breed. Some hotels won’t bat an eye for small pets like hamsters in cages or puppies, but give you an odd look if you bring a Doberman. Some may be friendly in that pets can be in rooms, but are not allowed to wander with you.
Pack the Essentials
Pack everything that you know your pet will need on a long stay outside of the house. Bring their food, water, bowls, bedding, toys, and any medications they might need. Make sure these are properly stored in secure luggage, so nothing spills or breaks. Don’t forget a leash, waste bags, and a crate or carrier, especially if you'll be traveling by plane and vehicle.
Always bring a copy of your pet’s medical records and vaccination history in case of emergencies, preferably in digital form for ease of space. Packing pet essentials means you won’t be running around the vacation spot buying stuff instead of enjoying the sights.
Plan Pet-Friendly Activities
Research activities and attractions that welcome pets. Many parks, beaches, and hiking trails are open to pets, but check the rules regarding leashes and off-leash areas. Some cities also have pet-friendly restaurants and cafes where you can dine together. Remember, even if a place is pet-friendly, always consider whether your pet will be comfortable and safe in the environment.
Keep Your Pet Comfortable During Travel
Travel can be stressful for pets, so make sure they are comfortable. If they have a favorite blanket, bring it along to help them keep calm. As much as possible, always travel with a companion when with pets. If you’re traveling by car, plan for regular breaks so they can stretch, relieve themselves, and drink water.
The last thing a driver should be doing is fussing over a nervous pet. For air travel, always check the proper pet policy. Some airlines allow small pets in the cabin, while others require them to travel in the cargo hold. The same goes for bringing pets onto boats and ships. Keep an eye on your pet on ships especially, so they don’t go overboard with overexcitement.
Be Mindful of Your Pet’s Needs
Vacationing with a pet means considering their needs just as much as your own. Stick to your pet’s normal feeding and walking schedule as much as possible. Keep their feeding schedule consistent with how they did at home to avoid any bowel-related jet lag. Make sure they have a quiet place to rest if they get overwhelmed.
Pay attention to weather conditions, especially in extreme heat or cold, and never leave your pet unattended anywhere without a guardian or at the very least, locked in a safe but comfortable cage. You don’t want to bother housekeeping with the stressed-out clawing and droppings of your pet, so it’s in your best interest to keep each other calm.
Prepare for Emergencies
While you shouldn’t be overthinking worst-case scenarios, it pays to be prepared for the worst. Always bring a first-aid kit for yourself and your pet in case of emergency. Locate the nearest veterinary clinics or animal hospitals at your destination. Keep your phone fully charged in case you get stranded or lost somewhere.
Final Thoughts
These are only some of the many things you’ll be thinking about when bringing a pet on vacation with you. Handling these first will cut down a lot of the stress, if not wipe it out entirely. While they may seem like a lot, you will thank your preparedness for the soothing pet-friendly vacation that awaits you.