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TRAVELING DOGS

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Traveling With Your Dog:

They are your family, your four legged children, why would you not want to go on vacation with your dog? There are many things to consider when taking your dog along.

The Hotel - You must plan ahead and determine if the hotel you want to stay at allows dogs. Many hotels have weight restrictions and will charge you a non-refundable pet fee. Some will call it a cleaning fee. It's rare to find a hotel that will not charge you anything.  Please be sure to make your reservation being honest that you are bringing a dog. Also, be kind to others and ensure your dog is quiet and well trained.

The great news is that now even the finest of hotels will allow your dog and treat it like royalty. Everything from it's own bed to treats and toys. I personally never leave my dog alone in the room. I think it's unfair to put that stress on your dog. If you must leave the dog, at least keep it in a crate so that it does not cause damage. You never know when nerves or separation anxiety can lead to problems.

Hotel Restrictions - Most hotels because of health laws will not allow you to bring your dog to the pool, common areas or to the restaurant. I always call first to get a clear understanding where exactly I can take my dog. I want to be sure that I can at least sit outside for something to eat or in the hotel lobby for a drink. A hotel that says it's dog friendly in my opinion should at least give you some options.

Air Travel -  Consideration as to the size of your dog must be kept in mind. Large dogs must go in the belly of the plane, and small dogs who can sit and turn comfortably in the carrier size allowed by the airlines can be under your seat. Dogs must be in an approved airline carrier and remain under the seat in front of your for the entire flight.

Before you think about traveling with a dog in a crate/carrier, please be sure they are comfortable in the crate/carrier.

Car Travel - Before you hit the road for a long journey, take your dog for a "spin" in the car to ensure they do not get motion sickness. A crate or doggie car seat is important for the comfort and safety of your dog. Please do not let them hang with their head out the window. The wind blowing can be harmful to their ears and eyes. NEVER leave your dog unattended in the car!

Preparation for the Trip - Dogs can have very sensitive stomachs so you should always bring enough of their usual food to last for the duration of your vacation. I also recommend only giving them bottled water. A change of water can also cause stomach upset. Be sure to load up on their usual treats and try to keep them on a schedule they are used to. Dogs are creatures of habit.

Pet-Friendly Travel Examiner
Sat, 20 Feb 2010 12:59:47 -0700

http://www.examiner.com/x-5581-PetFriendly-Travel-Examiner?cid=exrss-PetFriendly-Travel-Examiner

Feb 20, 2010 12:59PM

The pet-friendly Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ

The plush and luxurious interiors of the Westin La Paloma Resort will be your first lasting impression but not your only one! The setting of this property in the American Southwest is iconic. Add to the design and location the impeccable hospitali...

Feb 13, 2010 12:11PM

The luxury pet-friendly Brazilian Court Hotel, Palm Beach, FL

This oasis of sophistication is tucked into a residential neighborhood in Palm Beach and withing walking distance to the fabulous shops on Worth Avenue. The 'Court' in Brazilian Court is a lush, multi-fountained tropical courtyard open to ...

Feb 09, 2010 08:36PM

The Pet-Friendly Lodge at Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson, AZ

As I write this it is 19 degrees in Boston and 67 degrees in Tucson, AZ...and that sounds perfect! Therefore, my daydream for today is that I immediately pack my bags, blink my eyes, and magically arrive a the luxury pet-friendly Lodge at Ventana ...

Feb 07, 2010 07:55AM

The pet-friendly Hotel Lucia, Portland, OR

Oprah recommended it in the May 2008 issue of O, Conde Nast Traveler named it to its Gold List in January 2008 and that's because The Hotel Lucia is a wonderful, contemporary hotel right in the middle of downtown Portland, Oregon within eas...

Dec 17, 2009 03:06PM

The St.Regis, Aspen, CO - A luxury pet-friendly hotel

The pet-friendly St. Regis, Aspen, COPAW;Pet-friendly Accommodations WorldwideThe St. Regis Aspen is a fantastic pet-friendly luxury hotel option when you are thinking of taking the entire family on a winter ski vacation. Actually, all of Aspen is in...