What All Dog Owners Must Know Regarding Dog Travel
A holiday with your dog can be a really fun time for both of you. But it requires foresight and a bit of planning to make it so.
To begin with you’ll have to research the requirements for taking a pet to the destinations you’re interesting in visiting. With some countries, like the UK, these make traveling with your dog a virtual impossibility unless you’re on the PETS scheme.
But all countries, even pet-friendly ones, have importation laws you’ll have to comply with.
Then there’s the accommodation issue. If you are planning on staying at a hotel or resort, you’ll want to find a pet-friendly one at your destination and book early.
The good news is that more and more hotels are accepting pets these days.
And then there are the travel arrangements. Traveling with a pet by air or rail can be quite a challenge, so use a specialized pet travel company to make the arrangements for you. This will ensure that you avoid costly, and possibly even tragic mistakes.
If however, you are going to be traveling by car you can make the arrangements yourself, and there are quite a few things you’ll have to take care of.
For starters, you’ll need a way of restraining your dog in the car, either a dog carrier, or a specialized doggy seat belt. This not only makes sense, but is a legal requirement in some countries.
Also remember that dogs dehydrate very easily. Have plenty of fresh water, and his water bowl at hand. And never leave your dog locked in a car in warm weather.
Also, remember to pack leashes, harnesses, collars, toys, dog bed and anything else your dog will need.You will also have to plan where you will overnight on your trip, and check out local accommodation that allows dogs. And while we’re on the subject of breaks, remember to make regular bathroom and leg stretching stops.
And there’s even more to be taken care of. When you are at your holiday destination, ensure that your dog wears an id tag with your local contact details, at all times. For international travel you will have to have your dog micro-chipped, but extra precautions are never a bad thing.
It’s also a good idea to have a photograph of your dog with you, just in case your dog becomes lost.
Find out where the local vet and animal emergency center are. In case of emergency you’ll need this information close at hand.
Obey all local animal regulations and laws. This will normally mean that you have to pick up after your dog, as well as keeping on a leash in public places. It is just good manners to do this anyway, even if the law doesn’t require it.
By now you’re probably wondering if all of this is worth the trouble. Well, ask yourself how much a trouble free, unforgettable trip with your dog is worth. The likely answer is, priceless!
To learn more about dog travel, dog care, dog training tips and other interesting dog information go to dogsanddogtraining.com