Your dog is your closest confidant, the best brunch partner, and could be the ultimate travel companion. Exploring the world with your furry friend allows you to experience new territory while breaking the ice with fellow tourists and adding to your passport-stamp collection.
Unlike high-maintenance travel buddies, your pup will be happy to go with the flow. Not to mention, your furry friend treasures every second of quality time spent with you, which may be another reason to consider taking them with you.
Should you decide to leave your canine companion behind while embarking on your global adventures, you’ll need to ward off pesky separation anxiety proactively. Separation anxiety occurs in many dogs, and the stress it causes can translate into a variety of poor behaviors such as chewing, digging, and whining. While dog boarding facilities receive training in socializing and stimulating your dog, the cost of boarding while you’re away can put a notable dent in your wallet.
If sharing an adventure sounds more to your liking, but you haven’t traveled with a dog before, there are a few tips you should know before planning your first trip.
Travel-friendly dog breeds
Some dog breeds are better suited for the rigors and constant stimulation of travel than others. Sporting dogs like spaniels or Labrador Retrievers such as these are always game for lots of activity but know how to settle down in quieter moments. Smaller terriers, Dachshunds, and Beagles all have the drive to explore while being small enough to make them easily portable.
If you don’t currently own a travel-friendly pup, consider these breeds when making your adoption decision. If your current fur baby isn’t one of these breeds, don’t fret. They can still be a top-notch travel companion. After all, you know your dog’s capabilities and limits better than anyone. That said, if you foresee air travel, airport security, or hotel stays causing undue stress in your canine companion, consider splurging on dog boarding services.
Pack toys from home
Even the most daring dog may feel a little unsettled in a completely new environment. The different smells, sights, and sounds can be overwhelming and make it harder to adjust to the new space. To relieve travel-related anxieties, plan on packing a couple of your dog’s favorite toys or a well-used blanket that smells like home and is snuggle-friendly. The familiar smell can be comforting and calm the nerves of your stressed-out pooch, making it easier to settle into your housing situation. Relaxing from the get-go will help you both get a better nights’ sleep and feel more prepared for the next days’ festivities.
Get to know the rules of traveling with pets
There may be some extra hoops you’ll need to jump through when traveling with a dog. Airlines all have different regulations and fees when it comes to flying with an animal. If you plan on flying, check out the specific rules outlined by your airline and make a plan ahead of time. Being familiar with the regulations set by your airline and hotel can prevent disaster from striking, leaving you and your dog stranded.
Many hotels and Airbnb stays allow pets, but some may require notice ahead of your stay to prepare accordingly. When in doubt, it never hurts to talk to customer service and double-check that everything is in order before departing.
Keep pet documentation handy
Humans need identification and certain documents to travel the world, and often the same goes for pets. Bring physical and electronic copies of documents you may need for air travel and hotel stays for you and your dog, including proof of ownership, vaccination records, and your veterinary office’s contact information. It may be a good idea to gather these items early in case your four-legged friend needs an appointment for updated vaccinations.
Bring equipment spares
The last thing you want when exploring uncharted territory with your dog is a mechanical failure. A leash, collar, or ID tag breaking can be catastrophic for your trip. To make sure your contact information stays with your dog and that your dog stays with you at all times, make sure to have extra equipment on hand. If a malfunction does happen, you’ll be ready to roll with a backup leash, collar, or ID tag to keep your dog safe.
Before you go
Don’t confine your canine companion to the four walls of your apartment. Allow your pup to follow their curious nose as you check-off your travel bucket list.
