Should I Add My Pooch to the Packing List?

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Should I Add My Pooch to the Packing List?

The year seems to already be flying by, and before you know it the weather will turn warm, school will be out, and it will be that time of year again – vacation season. Vacations are often a family affair, and as a dog owner and lover, your pooch is the furry, four-legged member of the family. This begs the question: should you bring your dog along for a vacay? Will he still love you if you leave him behind?

Put Them First

While your mind might be wandering to days spent lounging on the beach with your pooch frolicking in the sand, the reality is that not all vacation spots are dog-friendly. Before you pack up the car, research the area and see how many hotels, restaurants, attractions, etc. accept canine visitors (BringFido is a great online tool). If the pickings are slim, consider the fact that you’ll have to leave your dog behind in the hotel room. Some dogs get nervous in strange environments, and an uneasy dog makes for an uneasy owner. If after doing your homework you think you want to bring your dog along, check with the vet to make sure he is approved for travel and updated on all vaccinations. In addition, you’ll want to make sure your pooch knows how to behave in public.

Weigh the Pros and Cons

When it comes to making a big decision, it’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons. The Spruce makes several good points both for and against bringing your dog along on vacation.

Pros:

·      Peace of mind that your dog is being adequately cared for

·      Familiarity with you and your family makes for less stress

·      Watching your dog experience new sights and smells

·      Adorable vacation photos

·      Free snuggles

Cons:

·      Finding accommodations that meet your standards but are also pet-friendly

·      Extra stops along the way for potty breaks and stretching

·      Less room in luggage

·      Having to return to home base more often to check up on Fido and go for walks/bathroom breaks

·      Stress on your pooch from traveling and being in an unfamiliar environment

Ultimately, it is up to you decide whether it is in your best interest and that of your dog to vacation together.

Give Fido His Own Vacation

Having Fido remain behind doesn’t mean he can’t have his own vacation. By hiring a dog sitter, you can be sure Fido will enjoy the comforts of home and get spoiled with love and snuggles in the process.

Pawfect Day, Inc. offers “sleepovers” at your house or the sitter’s home to ensure your pooch is not only comfortable, but sticks to his or her routine. You can rest assured that your pooch will be treated like family, as owner Jacqueline Rivera says the bonds formed are strong. “The most difficult aspect of working with dogs is getting attached. During the last 10 years, I’ve grown to love so many of them. They all have such different personalities,” Rivera says. “Some make me laugh so hard. Others keep me on my toes. You get see them transition from puppyhood to adulthood. The hardest part is saying goodbye.” As a bonus, Pawfect Day, Inc. donates a portion of all proceeds to local shelters, as well as sponsors annual pet food and linen drives.

With the right planning and preparation, taking your dog on vacation can be a pleasant experience. However, having a trusty pet sitter available should you decide otherwise is a good idea. As long as your pooch is receiving plenty of love and attention, he won’t mind too much.

Written by

Tamara Gilmore

Author of Bow Wow Business

Flying with Pets