4 min

Tips for taking a trip with your dog

Dogs are members of our families. They come to the park and the brewery patio, so why not on vacation? Here are a few tips to make traveling with canines easy and low-stress!

4 min

Whimstay

4 min read . August 20, 2022
Download

Dogs are members of our families. They come to the park and the brewery patio, so why not on vacation? Here are a few tips to make traveling with canines easy and low-stress!

Plan your route accordingly.

Dogs need regular breaks to go to the bathroom, eat and drink, and stretch their legs. Look for parks along your drive where you can take your pups for a walk to keep them calm and happy. Exercising can also reduce your risk of getting sore and stiff from sitting for long periods. Or consider breaking up your trip into smaller stints, and book a last-minute dog friendly vacation rental along your route!

Prepare for car time.

Not all dogs are stoked on car rides. If you plan to take road trips, practice riding with your dog when they’re young. Bring them on shorter drives around town to run errands, so they get used to the feel of stopping, starting, and turning. Then, move on to longer drives like an hour to go on a hike or visit the beach.

Pet traveler holds a tennis ball to throw for two dogs at ocean beach

Provide positive reinforcement.

Pack along a chew toy or a Kong stuffed with peanut butter. If your pup isn’t a fan of the car, consider working with a trainer to get ready for a longer trip. Practicing riding in the car can reduce howling, prevent canine anxiety, and make your trip much more pleasant for you and the dog.

Bring entertainment.

Just like people, pups can get bored in the car. Their boredom may lead to chewing at their crate or ripping the blanket in the backseat. Prevent destructive behaviors and keep your dog entertained with toys and occasional treats. Offer a durable chew toy they will chew on but not eat, as real bones can splinter and require more supervision than you can provide while driving.

Choose your lodging wisely.

Many hotels and other lodging options are off-limits or more expensive if you travel with pets. Instead, consider looking into vacation house rentals that allow dogs! There are many lake vacation rentals where you and your pup can spend a few days lounging, playing fetch, and enjoying the water without extra fees or strict rules about which hallways you can use and where the pup can go to the bathroom.

Download