From Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM,
Your Guide to Veterinary Medicine.
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A friend asked me this question the other day: "we found a place at the coast that accepts pets, do you think we should bring our dog?". Good question. I am noticing more "pet friendly" places to stay and visit lately, which supports the idea that more people are choosing to bring their pets on trips and vacations. Do you travel with pets, or are you more inclined to find a kennel or petsitter? This Quick Tip examines the "pet friendly" lodging idea and if it is a good choice for your particular pet.

Back to my friend's question. Just because pets are allowed where you are planning to stay doesn't necessarily mean it is a great idea. Seeing your beloved dog romp in the waves sounds like a perfect vacation, but what about all of the in-between times? Here is a quick assessment list to help determine if your pet is suited for travel and for staying in unfamiliar surroundings.

• Travel Is your pet used to car/plane/train travel? Arthritic animals may have trouble getting in/out of and being comfortable in the car or carrier, some animals may experience diarrhea from the stress of the trip. (I have a dog that fits both of those categories.)
  To prepare: small frequent trips around town may help acclimate your pet to the car.
• Unfamiliar surroundings Can your pet handle being alone in an unfamiliar place? This isn't something that is immediately thought of when planning a trip -- what about those times when the humans would like to go out to eat? See a movie? Visit a tourist attraction?
  Possible solutions: If your pet is used to a crate, it would be a good idea to bring it along to prevent any scratching or chewing up of the place that you are staying. Even for pets who are familiar with a crate: will they be quiet in your absence or howl, whine or bark since they are in unfamiliar surroundings? Leaving your pet in the car isn't always the best option. Be aware of the temperature; leaving a pet in a car, even on a moderately warm day, can be deadly.
If your pet is not used to being in a crate, it is wise to familiarize your pet prior to departure: allow them to explore, sleep and eat in their crate to become accustomed to it.
• Runaway pets Pets can be unpredictable, and being in unfamiliar surroundings with all of those new sights, sounds, people, and animals can add to that unpredictable behavior. What if your pet escapes on your trip?
  To prepare: be sure to have your pet up to date on all vaccinations (especially rabies) and all license and contact information tags up-to-date. Cell phone numbers are very handy to have on the tags; if only home numbers are available, it will be more difficult for people to contact you while away from home.
• Veterinary emergencies They can happen anywhere!
  To prepare: ask for references from local residents or check the phone book upon arrival. Just to be safe should the need arise.

You know your pet(s) best, and are ultimately the one to decide what is "best" for that family vacation. Hopefully this checklist will help make your choice a good one for the whole family. If you are concerned about your pet's health needs or behavior for travel, please consult with your veterinarian for specific tips and advice relative to your pet.