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You've already gone over the river and through the woods, and in just a few weeks it will be time for yet another family get together. But this time you've decided to bring the family dog along to share your misery, er, holiday cheer.
If you're traveling by car, the American Kennel Club offers a few basic reminders to make your trip -- and your pet -- safe, happy and relatively sane.
Will your trip involve a hotel stay? Most hotels are now pet-friendly, but some demand an additional security deposit for potential damage (not that your dog would ever cause any damage, but...). Plan ahead so that you don't wind up sleeping in the doghouse (AKA the car -- on the side of the road). Check out this site before you make any travel plans with Fido.
Are you visiting a city you've never been to before? Probably not if you're visiting your family, but any dog owner would be interested in perusing the dog park website, which details dog-friendly parks in cities throughout the country.
Remember, traveling can be traumatic for dogs. They're creatures of habit that get attached to their surroundings. Ease their anxieties by packing a favorite toy and blanket. And throw in a few of his favorite treats while you're at it.
And before you leave, make sure your dog is wearing a well-fitting (escape-proof) flat collar, with ID tags that have his home address, as well as any temporary address you might be using.
Do you have any travel advice for other readers who might be hitting the road with their hounds? Does your dog? Tell us here, or please send me an email, at jcurtis@mainstreetconnect.us.
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