If you're like most dog parents, you're bound to take him on a dog-friendly vacation with you at some point. Whether it's a fully planned outing or a trip to visit family, bringing your pup is one of the best parts of getting away for a while. Dog-boarding facilities can be uncomfortable, in-home pet sitters expensive, and some dogs just can't be away from you. Whatever the reason, taking your dog on vacation can be one of the most rewarding experiences you ever have together.
Before You Go
You'll need a checklist whether or not a pet accompanies you, but nothing helps plan a dog-friendly vacation better than a list of his own items. Here are some of the most important things you need to remember when planning a dog-friendly vacation:
- A crate or pet carrier, ensuring it's suitable for airline travel if you're catching a flight
- A secure collar or harness with proper identification
- Your veterinarian's contact information, should your pet become ill or hurt
- A health certificate, even if it's not required for transportation
- Extra food and water for him
- Dog treats to reward him for being good or distract him if he feels stressed
- A dog-friendly first-aid kit
- Waste bags (leave no trace!)
- His favorite chew toys
- Collapsible bowls that are easy to store and unpack
- Bedding, extra blankets and towels to keep him comfortable and clean
When packing first-aid, per the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMA), think gauze, non-stick bandages, and adhesive tape.
Keeping Him Comfortable
With this checklist, preparing for travel should be relatively easy. Once you have everything you need—and there could very well be much more to pack–you'll want to plan his transportation. Traveling by car? The crate or containment system you use doesn't much matter, but you should use whichever your pet is most comfortable in. Hard-sided crates and carriers are arguably the safest, but there are plenty of seat belts and barrier systems that work just as well in the average vehicle. When traveling by plane, however, you'll have to use an air-approved dog crate. Be sure to check with the specific airline you're flying with, as each one has its own criteria.
If you're not staying with family or friends, make sure your hotel is pet-friendly. More and more animal-friendly hotels are becoming available, so you should have no issue finding a comfortable place for you both to stay. Before travel, however, be sure to check the weather–especially if you're staying in a different climate. Dogs who live in Southern California but are traveling to, say, Michigan during the winter, are likely to need extra cover to make sure they can properly adjust to the cold.
If you're driving to your destination, be sure to plan your stops accordingly too. You don't ever want to leave your dog in the car unattended. Weather that becomes too harsh, on the other hand, should prompt stops only for gas and restroom breaks before you get back on the road. And remember, traveling with puppies will require more stops and attention than an adult dog.
Tasty Tips
Making the Trip Enjoyable
Although travel certainly takes a lot of time, try to keep your dog on the schedule he's used to at home. Keep his meals regular with respect to time and portions, and provide plenty of exercise. The more familiar you can make your routine, the less likely he is to feel stressed by the travel itself. Airports and hotel lobbies can be busy places, so take the time to make sure your buddy is comfortable and has enough time to use the restroom before relaxing in his crate. Setting him up on his favorite bed or blanket can help soothe any nerves he has about the change in environment while in his carrier. Vacationing globally? Provide plenty of his favorite treats at various checkpoints of the trip.
Because travel is a stressful time for everyone, ensuring your dog is ready to go too is important. You don't want to realize you've forgotten essential items that could make the experience extra soothing. Ultimately, the more you travel together, the easier it'll be to explore with him beyond your own neighborhood.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée
Beef & Barley Entrée with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight with Joint Support Large Breed Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken & Rice Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Entrée Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Can Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Healthy Cuisine Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Related articles
When Should a Dog Be Spayed?
Learn the proper age to spay your puppy, as well as whether adult dogs can be spayed, and possible complications to keep an eye out for following surgery.
What is the Best Time of Year to Adopt a Dog?
Wondering what's the best time of year to adopt a dog? Learn how to choose the right season to welcome a new furry friend into your home.
Recognizing and Managing Dog Dementia
Learn the common signs of dog dementia & canine cognitive dysfunction, how it is diagnosed and possible treatments that can be taken to manage the disease.
Managing Kidney Failure in Dogs
Learn from a Veterinarian: All about kidney & renal failure in dogs, from what symptoms are for both acute & chronic conditions, to treatment & management.
Essential Medical Supplies for a Dog First-Aid Kit
Learn what essential medical supplies are must-have items in a dog first-aid kit, and learn how to prepare an emergency kit in case of a natural disaster.
Enlarged Prostate in Dogs: Managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Signs of an enlarged prostate in dogs (benign prostatic hyperplasia) aren't easy to spot, so learn more about symptoms, treatments & prevention options.
What are the signs of food allergies?
Learn about the warning signs, symptoms, and treatments of pet food allergies and food intolerance in dogs and the affect on your pet's health and well-being.
Why Is My Dog Afraid of the Dark?
Discover common reasons why your dog seems afraid of the dark, including things like separation anxiety & traumas, and how to help reduce their fears.
Weight Loss Goals & How Your Dog Can Help
Learn some great ways to involve your dog in your weight loss goals, including exercise & activities you can both do and healthy snacks for both of you.
Why Does My Dog Look So Sad?
Why does my dog look so sad? Your pooch might just be looking for your love & attention. Discover other potential reasons for your dog's sad puppy eyes.
Common Health Concerns to Look for in Puppies
Watch out for these 6 common health issues that puppies may develop in their first year of life. Learn all the symptoms so you can provide the best care.
Dealing With Dog Mange
Learn about the skin condition called dog mange: what it is, how to spot the symptoms, and treatments for both Demodectic & Sarcoptic types of the disease.
Weight Reduction Dog Food and Exercise Tips for a Healthy Weight
What can I feed my overweight dog to lose weight? Learn all about weight reduction dog food plus feeding and exercise tips for a complete weight loss plan.
Taking your dog to the vet
Trips to the vet can be a challenge for dog owners. Read these tips to have a better vet visit for your dog, including transporting the dog with a carrier.
Cataracts in Dogs: Symptoms, Appearance & Treatments
Learn everything you need to know about cataracts in dogs, including common symptoms of the condition, breeds most at risk, and how they can be treated.
Can My Dog Eat Pizza?
Learn whether it's safe to share a slice of pizza with your dog, which ingredients can cause health issues, and how much is a concern if he does eat some.
Choosing the Best Toys for Your Dog
Play is an essential part of every dog's life. Find out what types of dog toys help them exercise and strengthen their bond with you.
Seven Digestive Problems in Dogs & How to Handle Them
Learn about the top digestive & gastrointestinal problems in dogs, such as diarrhoea & malabsorption, and find out how you can help your pet feel better.
Arthritis in Dogs: What You Need to Know
As your dog ages, arthritis and joint pain can become more common. Learn what causes these issues, signs to look out for, and treatments options.
How to Deal with Allergies Caused by Your Dog
You may want a dog but are concerned about any allergies you or someone in your family may have.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.