It's very common for people to travel during the holidays, and that leads to the dilemma of what to do with the family dogs.
Most people choose to bring their little doggies along because they don’t have anyone to care for them or no one they trust.
And prefer not to place them in a dog kennel for the duration of their holiday trip.
Most dogs don’t do well in kennels as they suffer from separation anxiety, which leads to issues with appetite, and they end up losing weight.
Traveling with your dogs for the holidays can be a pleasant experience if you are prepared for it.
Otherwise, it could turn into a nightmare due to the care they need depending on where you’ll be staying.
If you are visiting family or friends during the holidays, you really need to make sure they are comfortable with you bringing your dogs along.
Keep in mind that most hotels won’t allow you to keep dogs in your room.
Make sure you research this information before you secure the reservation.
Those hotels that do offer you the right to bring your dogs may charge you a deposit just in case they destroy something in the room during your stay.
Today, I’m going to provide you with four tips that could help make traveling with your dogs much easier.
Let’s unpack this…
TIP 1: Traveling by Plane
Most airlines will make accommodations for your dogs to travel in the plane, but they have to be secured in a carrier.
This can be very stressful for dogs that are used to roaming around freely.
They will have to fly in the cargo area of the plane unless the airline allows small dogs to be placed under your seat for the duration of the flight.
If you plan to place your dogs in a carrier let them get used to it in the weeks prior to your travel plans for the holidays.
This way they won’t be so overwhelmed by the concept of being in the carrier for the duration of the flight.
This can be quite traumatic for your dog, and you don’t want them injuring themselves during the flight.
Keep in mind that they may charge you more if your pet is aboard the plane with you instead of with the cargo.
Still, this is a great way to ensure your pet is being well cared for while you travel for the holidays.
If you have any connecting flights though you will want to keep your pet on board with you.
The risk of losing your pet this way will really put a damper on the holiday festivities.
TIP 2: Traveling by Bus or Train
Typically, you will not be able to take your pets along with you on the bus lines or the train due to their strict guidelines.
The only exception to this rule is seeing eye dogs as not allowing them on board is a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
As a result, many people traveling with pets for the holidays decide to take their own vehicle.
TIP 3: Traveling by Car
Make sure you have plenty of food and water for them so they can stay hydrated and feel well.
If you are traveling by car you need to plan to stop often for them to exercise and use the bathroom.
It is a good idea to take along their favorite toys or blankets to minimize their stress and anxiety during travel.
If dogs could talk, they’d probably tell you that their preferred mode of traveling is by vehicle, because you’re in control.
Driving allows you to make frequent stops to get food, and supplies, rest up at a motel, etc.
PRO TIP: If you’re able to, driving an RV is probably the most comfortable way to travel, because it’s a house on wheels.
Related Article: 4 Benefits Of Owning An RV You May Not Have Thought Of
TIP 4: Check the Weather Forecast
Pay close attention to the weather for your holiday travel as it can be quite a change for your dogs.
They are likely used to their normal climate where you live, and they may have trouble coping with extreme heat or extreme cold.
If you’re going to be traveling in a cold climate, consider purchasing warm doggie clothing.
Conclusion
It is very possible to travel with your dogs for the holidays, but it takes plenty of planning.
You want them to be as comfortable as possible without it affecting your ability to enjoy traveling for the holidays as well.
Even though you may want to have your pets with you, carefully weigh the decision.
If you determine that the travel conditions won’t be right for them, then find a quality kennel or a person you trust for them to stay at, so you can still enjoy your holiday travel.
I know that you probably consider your dogs as family members and you love them, which is why you should do what’s in their best interest.
Applying some of the tips we covered could help make your life much easier!
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