Traveling with a dog: the best tips & tricks

Traveling with the dog must be well prepared and planned. Starting with the transport, over the accommodation to the activities, a lot should be considered before the vacation with the partner can start with the cold muzzle.

Traveling with a dog: getting from A to B.

If you decide to take your dog on vacation instead of taking him to a dog boarding house or with family members or friends, it is important to plan ahead.

• Before you start thinking about the trip, think about where you want to go. Research the country and its entry requirements. For some areas you need certain documents such as a pet passport, in other areas only a limited number of dogs are allowed.
• Then you determine the most comfortable means of travel for you and your four-legged friend. Whether a trip by car, train or boat or a plane is best suited depends on the location of your travel destination, your budget, the provider and your preparation.
• However, not every dog ​​is suitable for a trip to distant countries. Even the flight can be torture for some breeds and especially in the south the high temperatures can be a problem for the animals. Changing the daily routines and the environment in general can also stress the animal heroes.
• You should therefore prepare your arrival properly. Have all important papers ready, vaccinate your dog and pack not only treats, but also a first aid kit, clean water, food, favorite toys and cozy blankets.
• You should also have linen, a waste bag, a muzzle, bowls, towels and shampoo in your luggage. You need the former for your excursions in some areas, the latter for the necessary maintenance. What your dog needs in everyday life, for example medication or familiar items, he also needs on vacation.

Accommodation and activities with your animal travel partner

When choosing accommodation, your preferences, your travel destination and your budget are important. Whether you move your dog into a holiday home or apartment, hotel or pension, tent or camper is up to you. You should look specifically for animal-loving providers both when choosing accommodation and when choosing activities.

• AirBnbs, holiday homes and apartments often create a feel-good atmosphere. These rooms have mostly been lovingly furnished and you and your pet can feel like a second home. If the selected location has a garden or a terrace, you and your four-legged friend can enjoy the holiday without having to travel long distances.
• If you would rather take your dog to a hotel or a pension, you only have to worry about a little. The food is served with half or full board, the rooms are cleaned regularly and you can relax by the pool or use other offers of the property.
• Camping with a dog can also be fun. But keep in mind that there are restrictions on many campsites, for example, some owners only allow dogs to be kept in the caravan.
• If you are driven out of your accommodation, observe the laws of the country. In some places, muzzles must be worn and lines must be carried at all times; in other places, you may not use public transport or enter certain restaurants, plateaus and promenades.
• Find activities in advance that your dog can take part in. Of course, you can also leave your four-legged friend in your accommodation, but you didn't bring him with you for that.
• For example, you could plan hiking routes or visit museums. Biking, cross-country skiing, surfing or swimming can also be an option. Always bring enough water with you and ensure that your dog neither overheats nor hypothermizes.
• If you choose a dog-friendly pension, you can also get tips from the owners or employees. On site you can sometimes get insider tips that you would not have come up with after hours of research.

If your next trip takes you and your dog to the seven seas, a round trip by boat might be an option. In the next article you can read which shipping companies offer cruises with dogs and what else you have to consider during such a holiday.