Dogs become a part of our families so when we plan to take family vacations it only makes sense that we would want to bring them along on the excursion. However, you can’t just pack a suitcase with dog food and toys. Taking a dog on vacation requires a little bit of additional planning. Below are some of those extra things you’ll want to think about while preparing for the trip.

Transportation

The first order of business is how to take your pet along. If you are planning to fly, you should check with your airline about their policies. Unless your dog is small enough to fly in a carrier below your seat (assuming your airline allows this), he will probably need to be kept with the luggage in the plane. Be aware that some dogs have been injured, sickened, and even killed as a result of this type of travel so don’t take the risk unless you really feel it is important to bring your dog along on the trip.

 

Road trips are a much nicer way for dogs to travel with their families as long as the vehicle has plenty of room for everyone. Make sure your dog is comfortable with car travel before planning a big trip with him. You should also plan for regular potty breaks and exercise stops to keep him relaxed and comfortable during the drive. Bring along food and fresh water for him, too. Instead of stopping at restaurants along the way, you could find a nice park and have family picnics so your canine companion isn’t stuck alone in the car.

 

According to the American Kennel Club, most busses and rail services do not allow dogs so you won’t have the option of bringing your pet along. Most cruises do not allow dogs either, but you can always ask. However, keep in mind that unless special accommodations have been made on the ship for dogs, the experience may not be very enjoyable for him.

 

If you are traveling outside of your own country and even destinations such as Hawaii, you may not be able to bring your dog at all. In other cases, your dog may need to be held for several days or weeks to ensure he is healthy. Make sure you know these guidelines before planning to bring your dog on the journey.

Accommodations

Another issue you will want to iron out when taking a dog on vacation is where all of you will stay. Just a few years, most hotels and motels were not pet-friendly so bringing your dog on the journey would have been a challenge. Today, many major chains allow dogs to stay in their rooms. However, you will probably be charged more per night and may also have to pay a deposit. Some chains also require proof of vaccinations for your dog. Make sure to check the policies at the hotel/motel where you will be staying before making the reservation.

 

If you are renting a cabin or other accommodations for your trip, you may not be allowed to bring your dog at all because of the risk of damage. Again, you need to check the policies at the time you make the arrangements.

 

Now if you are going to be camping or staying at campgrounds with your RV, you shouldn’t have any problems bringing along your dog. There are some exceptions in national parks, but generally dogs are accepted as long as you keep them under your control at all times so they don’t interfere with other people’s enjoyment. You should be careful about wild animals though. If you chain up your dog outside while camping, he could be an easy target for predators. Make sure he is up-to-date on all of his shots as well, especially his rabies vaccinations.

 

Don’t take the risk of trying to sneak your dog into accommodations where he is not allowed. Chances are good his barking or other behaviors will alert the staff or other guests to his presence. You’re better off finding a place where he is allowed.

Activities

No family vacation is complete without activities. You might go to an amusement park, go sightseeing, or just lounge around on the beach. If you’re bringing along your dog, however, you want to consider him when planning these activities, too.

 

You usually have the option of leaving your dog in the hotel/motel room when you’re not there, but he must be kept in a kennel so he won’t be a danger to the staff and so he won’t do any damage without your supervision. For this reason, you should try to plan as many activities as possible with your dog.

 

Amusement parks and most similar attractions do not allow dogs. They usually have a kennel area for dogs that do come with guests so you can visit with him during your day at the park. You’ll have to pay extra for that service. Make sure you check ahead of time to ensure this type of service is available before you bring your dog to the attraction.

 

Beaches vary greatly in their rules on dogs. Some set aside designated areas for people with their dogs; others simply do not permit dogs at all. Decide ahead of time which beaches you’ll be visiting and find out their policies. You should also check out the leash laws for the city you are visiting since these rules do vary from place to place. If you’re ever in doubt, you should assume that your dog needs to be kept on a traditional leash under your control at all times.

 

Sightseeing is not usually much fun for your dog. If you don’t plan on going into any buildings, you could probably bring him along if you are walking or traveling in your own vehicle. Otherwise, he might be happier back at the hotel.

 

Taking a dog on vacation can be a lot of fun for everyone, but you may need to change some of your plans to ensure your pet is safe, welcome, and included in your activities. That’s the best way to have a true family vacation.