Summer is here! And for many families, that means vacation time. These tips will help you keep your furry companions safe if you’re traveling with your pet this summer.
Our Visit Amazon Store to learn more about the products we rely on to make traveling with pets easier, safer, and more enjoyable!
Who doesn’t love summer vacation? And traveling is always more fun when you bring your pet! But summer pet travel presents some unique challenges. We’ve put together these tips to help make sure you all enjoy your trip.
Tips for summer pet travel
1. Underestimate what you can achieve
When you’re traveling with your pet, things take a little longer than when you’re traveling alone. And that’s a good thing! It prompts you to slow down and “smell the roses”.
When determining how far you can go during the day, be careful in your estimate so you don’t rush to chase your pet. And when planning things to do at your destination, keep in mind that warm afternoon temperatures can keep you indoors for a nap.
A good guideline is to plan…and then split. If you hit more than that, consider it a bonus!
2. Book pet-friendly accommodation
Whether you’re staying at a hotel, vacation rental, or campsite, it’s important that you understand the pet policy. Some places allow you to leave your pet unattended for a while, some require your pet to be locked up if you do, and some won’t. It’s important to explain your expectations in detail before you arrive, and make sure you’re on the same page so you can plan accordingly.
READ MORE Questions to Ask BEFORE Choosing a Pet-Friendly Hotel
GoPetFriendly has listings for all types of pet-friendly accommodations and activities, from hotels and campsites to dog parks and beaches, to restaurants and wineries! You can also check with your local visitor’s office or find out locals’ views by reaching out on social media. Just dig a little deeper, and you’ll find no shortage of pet-friendly places to stay and things to do.
3. Pack the right equipment
With your pet normally travel supplies for petsThere are several additional items to include for summer trips:
More water Whether you’re driving or flying, it’s important to ensure that both you and your pet stay hydrated. Bring extra water and a collapsible bowl and remember to take frequent breaks.
Doggy Footwear – In the summer, the sidewalks – and even the sand on the beach – are often so hot that they burn your pet’s paws. Test it with your bare hands or feet and if it’s uncomfortable for you, be prepared dog boots or one pet stroller.
Temperature display – If you need to leave your pet alone for any length of time, consider investing in temperature monitor. These devices will alert you if your pet’s surroundings reach the temperature threshold you set. (For example, if the air conditioner breaks down or the power goes out.)
Cooling mat – Cooling mat Can be used in the car, on a picnic, or at your hotel to give your pet a comfortable place to relax.
Cooling vest – Cooling jacket Use venting to help keep your dog more comfortable during hiking and other outdoor activities. These coats are usually light in color, which also helps protect dogs with dark coats from absorbing a lot of heat from sunlight.
4. Refresh your knowledge about dehydration and heatstroke
When you travel with your pet during the summer, it’s important to watch for signs of dehydration and heatstroke. Sunny days, high temperatures, high humidity and long hours outdoors can quickly lead to trouble. Recognizing the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke in dogs and knowing first aid can prevent serious illness.
READ MORE Recognizing and Responding to Dehydration and Heat Stroke in Dogs
5. Fasten your seat belt for a safe summer trip for your pet
When you’re finally ready to hit the road, remember pets are family! Therefore, it is essential to keep them safe by wearing seat belts. Whether you prefer to wear a seat belt or a safe pet carrier, protect yourself and your pets from serious injury every time you get in the car.
If your pet is not used to wearing a car seat belt, be sure to get used to it slowly. Start by letting him wear it around the house for short periods of time while you tell him how handsome he looks. Once he’s comfortable in the house, start taking him for short walks. Then slowly build up your driving time until he’s ready for your ride.
READ MORE Best crash-tested dog harness for car travel
6. Do not leave pets in hot cars
It is imperative to never leave a pet in a hot car. They can fight heatstroke within 15 minutes. Ideally, someone in your group can walk your pet dog when you run to the restroom. If you are alone, look for pet supply stores or other businesses that allow pets inside to rest.
If the only option is to leave the dog alone for a minute, you may have to lock the car and let it run with the A/C. Make sure you also set the parking stop time!
READ MORE Is it illegal to leave your pet alone in the car?
7. Be a good pet tourism ambassador
More and more places are welcoming our pets, which makes traveling together even more enjoyable for all of us! But it’s a privilege that can be easily revoked.
One person’s bad behavior can have an adverse effect on all of us! One of our best summer pet travel tips is to be a great example of our amazing community.
We can do that by being considerate of others and not letting our pets (or their noises) get in the way of those around us. That includes following the rules when leash and not taking pets in unauthorized places. And, of course, always, always, always take care of your pet.
8. Stay flexible
When you travel with your pet this summer, unexpected things can happen. Weather is often the culprit, but other obstacles also appear.
Anticipating speed bumps allows you to move around them gracefully – by rearranging your schedule or realizing that some activities may have to wait another day or your next visit .
We hope these tips help make this the best pet-friendly summer getaway!
Our visit Amazon Store to learn more about the products we rely on to make traveling with pets easier, safer, and more enjoyable!
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