Travelling with your dog on a family vacation can be extremely rewarding but presents some challenges. Whether taking a plane to another country or a road trip to a few cities away, it's important to plan if you're bringing your dog.

Here are our tips and tricks for planning a family vacation with your dog.

Pet-Friendly Destinations

Look for potential destinations to host your family vacation where dogs are allowed. If you explore accommodations, parks, or attractions with pet restrictions, know what they are and plan how you intend to navigate these rules.

Book a Hotel or Airbnb That Allows Dogs

Find a rental or accommodation to have your dog with you. There may be pet fees associated with that.

Consider Dog-Sitting Services

While on a family vacation, you may have activities on the itinerary you know you can't bring your pup to. Weigh the pros and cons of keeping them in your accommodations or arranging a dog-sitting service.

Use a Dog Jacket Tailored to the Client

A dog jacket can keep your dog warm, comfortable, and anxiety-free in an environment it has never experienced. A lightweight jacket for a fantastic summer evening. Likewise, a thermal jacket for heavy winter weather is a smart purchase for a family vacation with your dog. Browse Canada Pooch for a wide selection of dog gear for the suitable climate conditions.

Make Sure Your Dog Is Interested

Before travelling with your dog, ask yourself if it can handle the journey. Many dogs get stressed travelling and don't fare well in a car or plane. If you've never travelled with your dog, it can easily become more work than anticipated.

Take Your Dog To The Vet Before Leaving

When you take your dog to the vet, they can perform a full examination and confirm that the dog's health suits the trip. This may entail ensuring vaccinations are up to date, getting certain preventatives or treatments, and obtaining a record of your dog's health and vaccination records, which you may be asked to provide at a border crossing or customs.

Practice with Your Dog Beforehand

If you're going on a family vacation by car with your dog, get your pup used to riding in the car. Take them out on short trips before gradually increasing their time in the car. Training them to enjoy and accept a trip in the vehicle with as minimal stress and anxiety as possible.

Microchip Your Dog

Double-check that your dog is microchipped with the correct information. If they get lost or wander off, a microchip adds another layer of security and strengthens your chance of finding your dog quickly.

Pack Your Dog's Travel Essentials

Ensure your dog has everything to feel comfortable, including its favourite toy, a blanket that smells like home to ease anxiety, and any medications it may take. Also include an all-weather dog jacket, a collapsible water bowl for on-the-go hydration, and a leash.

Pack Food for the Trip

Make sure you have enough food to last the entirety of the trip. Especially if your dog is on a prescription diet or relies on specialty foods that they eat, pack more than enough of it to have on hand in case of an emergency.

Pack a Life Vest for Swimming

If you are boating or swimming with your dog, bring a life vest that fits properly. Even if your pup knows how to swim, there's always a risk of drowning or getting caught in a current.

Familiarize Your Dog with Their Travel Gear

If your dog is equipped with a dog jacket, harness, doggy boots, and similar dog gear, give it a chance to wear before the family vacation. This way, they can get used to sporting gear, and you can identify issues with the gear the first time your dog puts it on.

Provide Them with a Secure Crate While Driving

A dog should be in a seatbelt harness or secured crate to keep it safe during the drive. Do not let a dog wander around. A vehicle should be secured, as it could lead to distractions, dangerous driving, and the dog getting into things it shouldn't.

Plan to Make Frequent Stops

While travelling on a family vacation, be ready to make frequent stops for your dog. This is to keep your dog hydrated, let them go to the washroom, and stretch their legs. Take advantage of this step, especially during long trips or hot weather.

Write Down Where the Emergency Vet Is

Wherever you are on vacation, write down the contact info for one or two emergency vets if you need anything. This way, you will be prepared and have quick access should you need it.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.