Dog Travel Etiquette: How to Be a Responsible Pet Parent in New Destinations
With each passing day, pet ownership—though we don’t particularly like the word “ownership”—is becoming more common. Our furry little friends are becoming more than just companions but a part of our family, as much as our human counterparts. So, naturally, as family does, sometimes we must travel together. And just like traveling with a child, there is an etiquette to traveling with a four-legged child as well. In this blog post, we’ll cover how you can travel with your dog responsibly to any new place.
A Tiny But Mighty Comparison
Avid travelers live by the golden rule: pack light. It’s no surprise that smaller dog breeds are much easier to bring along than larger ones. Big dogs like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Huskies need more space, making road trips or pet-friendly cottages a better fit than cramped hotel rooms or public transport. Many airlines even require larger breeds to travel in cargo, which is stressful for both the dog and the owner.
Smaller breeds, however, are far easier to accommodate. In a Cavapoo vs. Maltipoo comparison, both rank equally well for travel-friendliness—especially the tiny, easy-to-carry Teacup Maltipoo Puppy.
Mode Of Transportation
Trains, airplanes, and private vehicles—all managed by the private travel industry—have come to the realization that traveling with one’s pet is not a niche market anymore but nearly a necessity. However, public transport is still on its way to showing such an accommodating nature.
Service dogs are obviously allowed on all modes of transport, public or private, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Policies on private pets, however, differ and vary.
Amtrak, for example, allows small dogs and cats (under 20 lbs) on trips under 7 hours, with a pet fee. This makes small, pocket-friendly dogs like the Teacup Maltipoo Puppy quite a wonderful and, literally and figuratively, easy-to-carry companion.
However, it is important to remember that not all modes of transportation are as pet-friendly as they might seem. In a car, for example, you can stop for stretches, a run, and of course, potty breaks. That kind of flexibility isn’t possible on a plane or a train. Sure, those options are faster, but it’s something worth considering if you’re traveling a long distance.
Put The Dog’s Safety First
As exciting as traveling with your dog might seem, the reality is that they might not always feel the same way. For us, travel brings a psychological high because we know we’re going somewhere. Your dog doesn’t necessarily understand that. They might not be physically or mentally prepared for the journey.
Before making plans, and though you know your dog better than anyone else, it’s best to check with a vet. They can assess whether your dog is healthy enough for the trip, provide necessary vaccinations or medications, and offer helpful advice. If your dog is a hyper little one, you might also want to ask about calming supplements to ease any anxiety during travel.
Also, look for hospitals and clinics near your destination and have their contact details ready so that in case there is an emergency, you’re prepared. Also, have the contact details of your regular veterinarian in case the vets need to speak with each other.
The Destination and the Itinerary
Alright, so you’ve made it to your destination. Now what? Is your dog just going to stay cooped up in a hotel room because it is the only pet-friendly option available?
Where you go matters. Traveling with a pet means making sure they also get to enjoy the trip after patiently enduring the journey. Plan an itinerary that includes them too. This means choosing pet-friendly hotels, cafés, hikes, or whatever activities suit your trip. It’s understandable that they can’t join every outing, but they should be part of most.
Packing Their Bags
Alright, let’s start the list segment of this blog. You’re going to require several things when traveling with a dog, and we’ve created a list of all the items you would, generally speaking, need:
- All medications for your dog, including a first-aid kit, calming medications, motion sickness pills if required, etc.
- You’re going to require a medical certificate signed off by a U.S. Department of Agriculture-accredited veterinarian. This process takes months, so start ASAP. This is for international travel only.
- Food, water, toys, treats, collapsible food and water bowls, leash, harness, waste bags, and health records. That is all for the pup.
- Pet seat if you’re traveling by car.
- A suitable crate with a familiar blanket or bedding and a muzzle.
And last but not least, do not forget to pack some patience. Traveling with a pet is no easy feat, we won’t lie. Things often go wrong, so stay calm and always have a backup plan.
On Side Note
There are individuals fearful of dogs or, worse, allergic to them. When traveling with a dog, ensuring the comfort of those around you is also your responsibility. Ensure your dog doesn’t bother them or invade their personal space unless they’re comfortable with it.
Conclusion
Traveling with a pet is no easy feat, we won’t lie. Things can, and more often than not, do go wrong. Nothing that happens is your furry friend’s fault though, so keep your cool and always have a backup ready. Do thorough research about your destination, read up on the policies of your preferred mode of transportation if there are any, and plan a trip that isn’t just fun for you but also for your dog.
