Page 11 - Dog-Harmony Life Summer 2021 V3Q2

travel

HAVE DOG,

WILL TRAVEL.

written by: Janie Schmidt

s the weather heats up and the school year comes
Ato a close, dreams of vacations that include the
whole family begin to form. But, traveling with your canine
companions presents a unique set of challenges. From
selecting which vacation works best to making sure your
dog stays safe, there are a number of factors to consider
when planning to take a vacation with your dog.

Selecting Your Travel Companion

The first question you should be asking yourself is “Why
do I want to travel with my pet?”
“Sometimes people want their pets with them because
they want them available after spending the day without
them,” said Heather Eisenstadt of Top Dog Pet Travel, a
travel agency dedicated to assisting pet parents in booking
travel filled with fun for the whole family. “Which makes
the person feel good, but is a lonely day in a hotel room or
kennel for the pet.”
If you don’t intend to make a pet a total part of your
vacation, getting a pet sitter or finding a reputable
boarding facility is a much kinder option. Also, if your pet
struggles with their health, you may want to consult with
your vet before deciding to include them on your next
getaway. It also may help you select which type of vacation
you’d want to take with your dog.
Another question to answer is, “does your dog like to
travel, and does he/she adapt well to new people, places
and experiences?”If your dog is reactive to other dogs or
people, especially in unfamiliar environments, it’s likely
best to not take them on vacation.

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