Dogs are said to be a man’s best friend, but they’re not always the best match for those of us who consider ourselves jet setters. In order to make traveling easier with your four-pawed companion, we’ve put together some tips.
Start with what you pack. Be sure to pack plenty of extra food, toys, and a blanket that reminds your dog of home. A collapsible water bowl for on-the-go hydration is also a must. It’s also important to check the weather for your destination before you go; your dog may need a cooling vest or a sweater to stay more comfortable.
If your upcoming trip involves lots of car time, spend a few days getting your dog used to being in the car. Create a positive association for your dog and the car, by driving them to a park. To prevent carsickness, feed your dog a few hours beforehand and keep the car’s temperature cool.
Perhaps your travel requires you and your dog to board an airplane. If so, be sure to take your dog on a relaxing walk before arriving at the terminal; a lot of airports even have outdoor areas or pet relief zones. Avoid feeding your dog too many snacks before the flight, as dogs can be prone to upset stomachs, especially if they’re not used to flying. Many of the rules for flying with your pet have changed recently. When you’re booking your ticket, make sure to inquire with your FROSCH Travel Consultant and airline on how your dog will be transported; typically larger dogs fly with the cargo, but smaller dogs can be kept in a carrying case under the seat in front of you.
Once you arrive your hotel, make your room pet-friendly. Leave the TV on to give your dog some comforting background noise while you’re not in the room. By doing so, this will also drown out stress-inducing noise they may not be used to. It’s important to keep the “do not disturb” sign on the door so that housekeeping doesn’t scare your dog. It’s also helpful to request a room that’s not near the elevator, to minimize the foot traffic in front of your door.
Lastly, be sure to plan some pet-friendly activities during your trip. If you’re staying in a pet-friendly hotel, ask the concierge for restaurants with outdoor seating so that your dog doesn’t have to be constricted to the hotel room and so the two of you can spend some quality vacation time together!
By following these tips, your furry loved-one will be hooked on traveling just like you.