A growing volume of research studies reveals that having dogs in public is not only good for the owner’s health but also for community connectivity. This means that as our dogs enjoy the outdoors, we naturally experience a mental and physical health boost, and are twice as much likely to socialize and make new connections. Pretty interesting, right?
However, while it’s evident that taking our dogs out, either for walks or other recreational activities like travel, can greatly benefit us, most people today, still dread the idea of travelling with their dogs. You plan a trip and naturally, you want to experience nothing but ease and pure bliss, so you choose to leave the dogs with a sitter. But what if I told you, given the best hiking harness for dogs is available in multiple places, travelling with your dog is not as difficult as you imagine?
Statistically, close to 37% of pet owners worldwide go on trips and escapades with their dogs. That’s a big number. Big enough to show you it can be done. Moreover, the travelling industry has put in necessary measures to this effect to accommodate this emerging trend.
This article offers valuable tips to ensure you enjoy the adventure while you travel with your dog.
1. Make Sure to Double Check
The world is embracing the idea of travelling with dogs slowly but surely. In fact, several establishments have their buildings architecturally designed with pets in mind. Try searching online and you will find that several restaurant spaces are strictly in line with all the dog policies and hence are dog friendly.
However, do not take the written information for their word. Always seek clarification because it is not unusual to find shared information that contradicts reality. For instance, a restaurant’s website can state that they are dog friendly when in reality they only have a few of the requirements in place. Visiting the said restaurant will result in frustration, confusion, and a waste of time, money, and energy.
It will therefore help if you sent a quick email or made a phone call to confirm the information on their website. You will also find that some establishments have no indication of whether or not they are dog friendly when in reality, they are!
2. Take Extra Precaution in Your Travel Preparation
Travelling preparations as we know it can be rigorous and mentally exhausting. You want to make sure all your travelling documents are up to date and accessible. You want to ensure you have the right outfit each for the number of days you will be away.
Most dog owners, however, rarely use the same energy to prepare for their dog’s travelling and this could potentially ruin your adventure.
It is important to keep a record data of your dog’s crucial information like their age, microchip number, their medication if any, and the vet’s info in a safe and accessible platform like your email. Part of preparing also includes updating their name tags. Include such crucial information as their name, email address and phone number. If you are moving across continents, you might also want to include the language your dog understands.
We also strongly recommend looking up the nearest vet available in your travel location. An emergency can happen, you never know. Adequate preparation is all the control you have, so do it well.
3. Make it Familiar to Your Dog
Travelling can be pretty stressful for dogs. This is especially true for dogs travelling a long distance for the very first time. One way through which the dog’s stress levels can be regulated is through familiarity. This can be effectively achieved by maintaining your dog’s routine while on the road.
If your dog is accustomed to a particular number of meals during specific times of the day, make sure to keep that routine or at least most of it. If your dog is used to enjoying dinner with the rest of the family, tag them along to the restaurant and have them join you in your meals. That also includes their pooping schedule.
The more familiar the trip feels, the more relaxed and at ease, your dog will be.
4. Don’t Forget Your Dog’s Packing Essentials
Here, the list mostly includes the dog’s travel bag – yes, get them their own suitcase. The bag will be used to carry their wet wipes, emergency kit, extra dog poo pick-up bags, and towels among others. If you buy a dog travel bag specifically, you will find that the bag comes with all the essential materials packed.
Include their favorite snacks and treats. And don’t forget their toys as well. You want them to feel at home away from home hence this routine.
In a Nutshell
Dogs love travelling just as much as we do. It is only fair to include them in our travelling adventures, right? This idea may sound dreadful but we can assure you, that once all the listed measures are put in place, your trip with your dog will be the most fun and rewarding yet!
