Traveling the Dog Way

Traveling with a dog is a bit different from traveling with only humans.  

 When a dog is going on the trip, you have to plan ahead. 
You need to know which hotels will allow your dog in the room.  How much extra will it cost?  Are there size/breed restrictions?  Is there a designated potty path for dog guests?   There are more hotels that allow small dogs than ones which allow large dogs.   Small is usually defined as any dog under 20 pounds.   

If you are traveling with a large dog, or even a medium one, you will probably need to search harder for an accommodating hotel.  If your dog is one of the breeds that often face discrimination, it may be even harder.  When you travel with a restricted breed, you need to be aware of local laws for every place you travel through.  You don't want your dog confiscated. 

All size dogs require you to pack some basics.
Here is a list my pals at Nutro have created:

 [ ] Food. It’s important not to disrupt or change a dog’s diet while traveling, which can cause intestinal distress or upset. If your dog eats canned food, consider purchasing smaller cans if refrigeration of leftovers will be an issue. Collapsible food and water bowls can also be good for when you have to pack light.

[ ] Carrier. If you’re traveling by air, you’ll likely need to have an airline-approved, specifically sized crate to contain your dog during the flight. Check with the airline beforehand. You have more flexibility when traveling by car as far as choosing a crate size, but remember that crates are not as safe as car harnesses for dogs. Many options for car harnesses are commercially available.

[ ] Collar and leash. Make sure your dog’s collar has ID information on it to ensure that you can be contacted if you and your dog become separated. Don’t forget waste bags to the leash for cleanup during walks as well.

[ ] Documents. Some hotels and airlines require that you provide documentation of your pet’s vaccination and general health. It’s also useful to have a photo of your dog with you so that if you do become separated, anyone who you might enlist for help can make an easy visual identification.

[ ] Any medications your pet takes. Replacing these while traveling can be very difficult.

[ ] A blanket or toy from home. While this isn’t necessarily a requirement, something that has a familiar smell can help comfort your dog during travel. Dogs who are accustomed to a strict routine might find this especially comforting when their routine is disrupted — even if it’s for something fun like a trip to the beach.

[ ] A calming aid. If your dog gets particularly nervous in the car or on other forms of transportation, you might ask your vet for a medication that could help keep your dog calm.

I also recommend packing these items:

• vehicle restraint - I ride in a car seat with my harness clipped to the seat belt.
• chew - bully stick, Himalayan Chew, tooble, etc...
• bottled water - some dogs can have digestive upset from tap water in places away from home.  (different minerals, processing, etc..) 
• pet first aid kit - Best to be prepared, and then hope you never actually have to use it.
• harness - Not all dogs have their leash clipped to a collar; some use harnesses instead. 

Traveling with a small dog has its own unique challenges.  They seem to require more luggage.  BOL!!  There is the car seat, purse/crate, piddy pads, clothes (and of course they are even more necessary if they match the human's outfits), stroller, grooming tools if they are fluffy,............

  
That's just the basic necessities, travel by plane, boat, train, etc  has another whole set of rules you need to research and plan for.  There are even more rules if you are traveling internationally.  Some destinations require up to a year of planning.  

  Then there are destination items:  flotation device, boots, cooling vest, coat, eye protection, backpack, climbing harness/gear,................

 Are you still planning to travel with your dog?  Of course you are!

Disclaimer: "This post was written by a Nutro Knowledge Network member and sponsored by the Nutro Company."