It’s that time of year again! Not Easter candy time, but time to plan your summer vacation. Lots of people are looking forward to vacations this year, and as a dog owner, the question will be, what do we do with our dog? If you are thinking about taking your pet on vacation with you, it’s important to ask some questions first to determine what’s best for both of you. 

1. Has my dog been on long car trips before? Some dogs get motion sick, and some dogs get anxious traveling in a car. If that’s your dog, you may want to think about leaving them at home. Nothing worse than starting off your road trip with a sick dog in the back seat! 
2. Is my dog social enough to be on a road trip? Some dogs love to experience new places, meet people, and enjoy different adventures. Other dogs not so much. If your dog will be stressed during the entire trip, consider finding alternative arrangements for them at home where they can be more relaxed and comfortable.  
3. Does my dog have any medical needs that may impact travel? If your dog is elderly or has mobility issues, getting into and out of a car may be difficult and/or painful. You may need to stop more often for potty breaks (although good stretch breaks for you!), so consider the extra time needed. Talk with your vet if your dog has any medical conditions, takes medications, or if you just aren’t sure if your pet is up for a road trip. 
4. What type of activities are you planning? If you are planning to go on day long sightseeing or outdoor activities, and your dog either can’t physically participate or no dogs are allowed, think about how your pet will do alone in a hotel room or an AirBnb. If your dog has separation anxiety or is nervous in a new environment, you could end up paying for damages caused by your dog or having the hotel call because your dog is barking too much. If your dog would end up alone for most of the trip, it’s probably better for them to stay home. 

If you are thinking about flying with your dog, it’s very important to do additional research on flying with a pet. Know the airline’s rules, and talk with your vet about your specific pet breed and medical condition. While dogs can and do fly, there are risks, and it’s important to always keep the health, mental well-being, and safety of your pet in mind. 

Finally, it’s important to remember that many public places, national parks, and tourist attractions do not allow dogs. Find out the rules for where you plan to visit, and check out online sites like www.BringFido.com to get an idea of dog friendly restaurants, activities, and hotels where you will be traveling. Some dogs will love travel. However, sometimes the best thing we can do is leave them home in a safe environment while we adventure. Then shower them with love and extra treats when you get back!  

Next month, we’ll look at options for your dog if they can’t travel with you.