Dogs: I have a tiny 8-lbs mix who loves to travel. He normally sat on my lap and fell asleep after a short time. I know, this is not the safest way to travel with a mini-dog and I have changed that recently after being witness to a bad accident. He now sits in a safe car seat that I can even convert to a bed or a doggy-suitcase. We both ( dog and me) are happy now and I feel so much better to know that he is safe in case of an accident. See more information on that product HERE .
I do recommend - for large dogs - to use a protective device such as a dog-seat-belt, and for small breeds a kennel, same as for cats. You might want to add some familiar smelling blanket, toys, or even an old T-shirt of yours to make him more comfortable. In general, the recommendations for how to position a kennel are similar to cat advice.
The kennel needs to be large enough so the animal(s) can stand up, and turn around.
Cover the kennel with a thin blanket, leave only the entrance (which normally has some wire door) uncovered for airflow. Do not position the kennel for the uncovered side to point towards the outside. Dogs too can get confused by cars and lights rushing by.
Most likely your dog will not eat while being locked in a kennel either. Make sure, especially on hot days, to take mini-breaks every 2 - 3 hours, let the animal outside for 5 - 10 minutes (on a leash!), offer fresh water and the food it is used to. Your dog might not want to eat, but will certainly drink!
Arriving at a hotel: Not too many hotels are fond of furry travel companions. See list of personal recommendations for pet-friendly accommodations HERE . Make sure you have your luggage already unloaded and don’t need to open your room door for some time. Dogs will immediately start sniffing around. It might happen that they catch the scent of another animal that previously occupied the hotel room. Put out some tasty food and water, maybe some toys, and let the dog get used to the new surroundings. I always did well to take my dog for a walk afterwards, to keep at least part of the daily walking schedule in the mornings and evenings.
As a courtesy to other hotel guests please do not leave your animal unattended immediately! The new surroundings might scare even the calmest animal and this might resort in excessive barking. If you can’t take your dog with you for dinner, think about of ordering room service or let one person stay with it.
When staying in a hotel for several days make sure the animal is proper attended when the cleaning crew arrives in the morning. Best is to leave with the dog while your room is prepared. Most dogs just hate vacuum cleaners, and a vacuum cleaner in the hands of a stranger is extra scary for the animal. Keep in mind that the maid might be afraid of animals. Bad manners of animal owners make it harder to find pet-friendly accommodations for other pet lovers. Be courteous and considerate please!
When arriving at your final destination give the dog time to get acclimated. Dogs should always be on a leash, even more when arriving at a strange location. Make sure the anmial cannot escape and keep the doors closed. Be patient!
Useful things to take with you: dog blanket, dog toys, T-shirt of yours, dog food the animals is used to, 2 plastic bowls with lid for water and food, treats, chew-bones, bottled water, spare leash. Large, thin blanket to cover kennel in car.
Make sure your animals are properly vaccinated! Some states (and some hotels) within the U.S. might require you to show proof!
See also our recommendations for car seats!
For specific tips of how to travel with CATS -
please klick>>HERE
> >Travel Accommodations for Pet Owners
