So you've found a pet-friendly vacation spot and are excited to bring your dog along on your next adventure. Excellent decision! Your dog will be much happier with you than if you leave him at home or in a kennel. Knowing what to pack for your dog before you leave can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.
What Should You Bring?
Vacations necessitate planning and packing, and your dog will require certain items as well. Fortunately, dogs are relatively simple to pack for because they don't require two suitcases full of clothes like we do! However, the items they do require are critical and should not be overlooked.
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Food: Bring enough of your dog's favorite brand of food to last the entire trip. Don't assume you'll be able to find the same exact brand of food while traveling to or arriving at your destination. The introduction of new food to your dog may result in diarrhea or vomiting.
Always keep enough water on hand for your dog.
Bring your dog's normal water bowl and dishes.
Bring a large supply of plastic bags for cleanup.
If your pet requires medication, bring it with you.
Prepare a first aid kit with disinfectant, gauze pads, medical tape, and a blanket in case of an emergency.
Where will your dog sleep tonight? If you're going to be in and out of a hotel room, bring a travel crate for when you can't bring your dog inside a building, such as a restaurant. Keeping your dog secure in a crate ensures that your dog will not flee if the maid service opens your door for any reason. If your dog enjoys sleeping on his dog bed, bring it along if you have room.
Bring plenty of towels. If you get caught in the rain, you'll need them to clean up muddy paws and dry your dog's coat.
Carry your dog's medical records. Some places will require proof that your dog has had his rabies shot recently. Remember to write down your veterinarian's name and phone number as well.
Bring a few of his favorite toys as well as some chew toys.
Check that your dog is wearing identification tags. Make a set of tags with your phone's information on them. If you are away from home and your dog escapes, someone will be able to contact you immediately. If you aren't home to answer the phone, your home number on his regular tags will be useless.
Important Safety Recommendations:
Weather: Never, ever leave your dog in a closed vehicle in the heat, not even for a minute. The interior of a car can become dangerously hot, killing your dog in minutes. Even if you parked in the shade when you arrived, that same parking spot could be in the direct sun in just a few hours. Even with the windows cracked open on a hot day, your dog will be too hot in the car.
Buckle Up: Always use a dog harness to secure your dog to a car seat belt, or if your dog is small, secure him in a dog car seat or a dog booster seat. Never leave him alone in the car. If you are in an accident or have to come to a sudden stop, you must keep your dog from flying forward.
Taking our dogs on vacation can be a fun experience for the entire family. Taking the time to prepare and pack the essentials for your dog before you leave will help make the trip more enjoyable.
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