TORONTO - Do you remember your last vacation? I’m sure it was amazing but it could have been much better had you not been worrying about the furry family members you left back home.

One solution: take Fido along with you. More and more people are doing just that — a survey conducted last year found that 60 per cent of pet owners said they travelled with their pets and 58 per cent said they are planning to travel with their pets during the summer. Unfortunately, 28 per cent of those surveyed found a poor selection of pet-friendly hotels.

 

Above: Even a dog deserves a holiday.

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So let’s look at some helpful tips to make travelling with your pets fun, safe and enjoyable for all members of the family:

1- Get Fido prepared

Travelling by car is the preferred choice for pet owners. The length of time spent travelling by car varies, though, so practice car rides one to two times weekly with your dog before the trip to make sure he or she is comfortable. Make short trips to various places such as the store or picking the kids up from school, not just the vet’s office. These short trips will create a positive association with car travel. And don’t forget to bring some treats along.

2- Fido still uncertain?

Despite your best efforts, your furry family members may still act nervous or anxious during car travel. Bringing along some tasty chews or a favourite toy will help settle them in for the ride. Have a friend or family member provide treats for any calm behaviour in the car, which creates a more positive travel experience. Keeping your dog in a crate or using a doggie seatbelt are also great ways to keep them comfortable while on the road.

3- Plan ahead

Planning a pet-friendly vacation does not have to be stressful. Be sure to check all requirements for pet-friendly accommodations — some may have size or breed restrictions. Make sure to have your pet’s vaccination records up to date to hand over when crossing borders. Be a great pet parent ambassador; have your dog on his best behaviour and respect other guests around you. This ensures a bright future for pet-friendly destinations.

4- What to bring

To reduce travel stress try to stick with your pet’s normal daily routine and schedule. Make a list and check it twice. Here is a list of some things you should bring:

• Bowels, food — especially if your pet is on a restricted diet — and favourite treats/chews.

• Beds and blankets (with familiar home scent).

• Leashes, harness and crate (if needed).

• A doggie first aid kit (depending on the trip destination).

5- Get out there, explore and have fun

Include your dog in as many vacation activities as possible. Be sure to reward and spoil your dog for good behaviour, this builds a positive travel experience for the whole family. Your dog will definitely let you know how happy they are to join you on vacation, rather than being left with a sitter. Here are some activity ideas to include your dog in:

• Hiking

• Swimming at the beach (Florida offers some dog-only beaches)

• Boating

• Dining on a pet-friendly patio

6- Reasons noet to bring your pet

Despite your best efforts, some pets would rather their own vacation at a pet hotel or be left with a sitter. If your pet experiences some of these behaviours, reconsider travelling with them:

• Very anxious and nervous of car travel, new places and sounds or meeting new people (less social).

• Is very rambunctious or barks a lot (consider obedience training before travelling.

Finally, make sure to take lots of pictures for future memories.