Learn the easiest, most effective tips for traveling with a dog.

Traveling with a dog can be one of the most fun and rewarding ways to take a vacation. Anyone who has a dog already understands the unconditional love and companionship they have to offer: taking them on a trip is to take a best friend. Whether you want to go out adventuring, or just get away for a quiet weekend, taking your dog with you is a sure way to fix a smile to your face.

Drive

It’s much easier to take a dog on a trip if you drive. That way, you don’t have to worry about airline policies, the dangers of animal travel in the cargo hold, or the expense of buying your dog airfare.

Driving with your dog is free! Just be sure to pack up plenty of food and water, and stop every few hours. Your dog will need to stretch his legs, have a drink, and do his business. On the day of your drive, give your dog small meals throughout the day. This will help prevent motion sickness, though you may want to line the foot well with garbage bags, just in case. You can also get anti-nausea medication from your vet, as well.

Pick the right accommodation

Many places are animal friendly, but vary in their policies. When choosing a hotel for the night or an extended stay, try to find one that allows you to keep your dog in the room with you over night. This will be much more comfortable for your dog, and you won’t have to worry about him over night.

Depending on your dog’s breed and size, you may find yourself in a situation in which your dog must spend the night in an alternate part of the hotel. While you can be sure this area is secure and warm, it may not be your preferred method. To combat anxiety in your dog, spend some time petting him before he goes into the kennel for the night. Lining his crate with old sheets, T-shirts and towels is good too – the smell of home will calm him.

Plan Your Day Around Your Dog

To avoid extra costs, try to plan your activities around your dog’s schedule. For instance, if you want to have a relaxing morning and afternoon but a fun night out, spend the day with your dog: explore the town or city, have lunch in a dog-friendly restaurant, spend the afternoon reading. Then put your dog in the kennel before you head out for the night.

Keep to the Home Schedule

One of the easiest things to do when traveling with your dog is keep him on his normal schedule. This will help prevent any “accidents” and is a good way to ground him amidst all the newness of the travel.

See the rest of our articles for more trips on traveling with a dog, and book everything from flights to hotels on our listings page.