Travelling with dogs
Hollie WattsxSat Feb 20 2016
If you’re anything like me then you see your dog’s more as children than pets. I would choose to take them everywhere with me if I could, but alas the meat isle in the very busy supermarket probably isn’t the best place for a food focused hyperactive Pomeranian to be! Life changes when you become a pooch parent, no longer can you just pack up the car and escape for the weekend when you’ve got your four legged friend to think about. Travelling with dogs doesn’t have to be havoc though, there are some very simple tips you can follow to ensure a smooth cruisy trip!
Ensure your destination is dog friendly. Unfortunately, not everyone wants to snuggle your little floof as much as you do, so finding dog friendly motels, hotels and campsites can sometimes seem a little tough. Check out the AA website here for a list of destinations or consider the stunning Scenic Hotel Te Pania in Napier which is the first hotel to offer full service and allow dogs! Check it out here!
If your trip is a long one, you’re bound to want to stop along the way – in fact you’ll need to so that pupper can relieve himself! Choose a safe spot away from the busy road to ensure maximum safety for all and keep leads on as loud sounds and unfamiliar situations can spook even the most well trained dogs.
Bring food for yourself or pre-plan dog friendly café stops along the way, having to leave your dog alone in the car is a big no-no. Especially on a warm day, even with the windows down your dog can quickly overheat in less than 15 minutes which can result in sometimes fatal situations.
Only travel with your dog inside the car, although there has been plenty of debate over which form of travel is safest, harnessing into the seatbelt clip and crating are both great options that will ensure a safe, secure trip. Although they may love the rush of air over their faces the wind can bring with it small objects that can damage their eyes so stick to the air-conditioning and frequent fresh air stops.
Bring water and ice containers to ensure your dog can stay hydrated throughout the trip. If he/she is prone to car sickness, ensure you consult your veterinarian who may be able to help with medication and training tips for desensitising the issue. Feed and exercise your dog early before you leave, this way they aren’t excessively hot or don’t have to ‘hold it’ in transit.
When you arrive, it is important to stick to routines. Allow your dog to walk, feed and sleep as close to his routine as possible. Involve your dog in your activities, he didn’t come all this way with you to be left in the room. He wants to explore and adventure just as much as you do! If you have to leave your dog alone in the hotel room let the front desk know just in case and tell them they can call you at any time if he is excessively barking/howling. Follow local laws and regulations, keep your dog on a leash, this new place can be scary and exciting and it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Although I wouldn’t recommend flying, sometimes in situations such as relocating overseas you can’t help it. Ensure you do your research, follow all of the rules and consult your veterinarian who will give you all of the relevant information you need to ensure your pup arrives at your new home safe, secure and happy!
Remember when travelling with dogs that in some peoples eyes you are defining ‘all of us‘, set a good example for the rest of us and maybe one day everyone will welcome our little scruffs with open arms! Travel safe pupper!