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A Wag-Worthy Weekend in NYC

Filed under: Dog Life,Travel & Leisure — mtest on April 15th, 2013

‘I Love New York’, the slogan and ad campaign almost as iconic as the city herself, rings a bell with almost everyone, who hasn’t seen one of those t-shirts, and absolutely rings true for Beau and I. It was my intention to write one piece about New York for this entry, but each area of Manhattan has so many wonderful pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, shops and activities that I decided to provide you with a series of NY locations over the coming month. All perfect for your next pet-friendly jaunt into MetroPAWlolis.

Finding a pet-friendly restaurant in the winter months can be a bit difficult, so your hotel might be the best place to grab a bite. Once the weather warms up finding a great restaurant is like a day at the beach, or at the boat basin as this case. The Boat Basin Café at West 79^th Street on the Hudson River is opened beginning in the spring and stays open through the end of October, weather permitting. Your best bet is to go for dinner and take in the sunset over the Hudson, it is stunning. Your well-behaved, leashed pet is welcome to accompany you while you dine outside. On the menu is a nice selection of grilled specialties and your pup is sure to enjoy a cool bowl of water and lots of attention from the adoring staff and patrons alike.

Time to PLAY!

Before your visit to the Boat Basin Café you may want to stop in to Furry Paws located at 141 Amsterdam Ave, NY, NY 10023 212-724-9321 to pick up a little outfit for your luncheon date. You know that it’s all about the fashion in New York and you wouldn’t want him to look like a tourist.

One Pooped Pup?

There is no lack of fantastic West Side pet-friendly hotels. Two in which we’ve stayed and that we adored are The Westin Times Squareand the Algonquin Hotel. These two are very different from one another, but each is superlative in its own way. However, I couldn’t resist telling you about my two favorite pet-friendly hotels in the city; one in Soho and one in Tribecca, so I’ve made one puppy-paw-print sized exception to my West side focus in this ‘One Pooped Pup’.

Often referred to as ‘The City That Never Sleeps’, I’m here to tell you the truth (sometimes it naps a little). If you can bare to rest your eyes while in Manhattan, be content in knowing that whatever you’ve missed while you were asleep, something else just as incredible will present itself when you awake, then we have two equally amazing choices for you!

Owned by the same company, Grand Hotels, the first is in Soho. Step through the doors and up the sensational metal staircase and you discover the Soho Grand located at 310 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013, (212) 965-3000 where you are met with such a combination of interior design eye candy, tasty biscuits, and hip New York vibe that really, just hanging out in the lobby is almost enough, but not quite (you have to check-in). Their pet policy welcomes pet-guests of all stripes and sizes without imposing any additional fee. Upon arrival (or at the time of booking) you can request food and water bowls and a bed for your travelin’ companion (a loaner Kennel is also available if the pup prefers or you’ll need to be leaving that non-barking, good boy alone in the room for a little bit). Toys, treats, and cookies are available for the pup upon request at no additional cost. As if that weren’t enough, when you arrive in your room you will find it’s already occupied; by a goldfish. This is meant to be an amenity for you, the human guest to enjoy looking at but I can tell you, as evidenced by the photo above, the second Beau saw this magnificent creature he was stricken with the most acute case of puppy-love I’d ever seen. His interest wasn’t the least bit hostile in an, “I want to eat you’ kind of way but in a ‘That’s the coolest thing I’ve ever seen and I’m I L-O-V-E’ kind of way.

A Beau Knows Travel Tip: The most important item to pack in the pups travel bag is his shaded doggles because pretty soon your dog will be as much of a rock-star guest at the Soho Grand as the real rock-star guest who’s fallen in love with him in that stunning lobby. I experienced that the blinding glare from the cameras of the PUParazzi and it can be a little overwhelming if you dog’s not used to that kind of thing.

The sister-property to the SoHo Grand, and in no way ‘the little sister’ is the Tribecca Grand.

As the name implies it is located in Tribeca at 2 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10013. The TriBeCa Grand is a classic New York boutique hotel located in the heart of Downtown Manhattan. Opened in 2000, the family owned property was the first boutique hotel to open in New York’s affluent TriBeCa district and is every bit as wonderful as the Soho Grand, although with a slightly different personality than her sister. Tribecca Grand offers the same pet-amenity package including your roommate, Mr. Gol D. Fish.

As you plan your trip to New York remember to visit the LuxuryPAW Canine Concierge page. Select New York from the drop down box and you will find all of the pet-friendly things we discovered on our last visit to the city.

Beau and I hope you enjoy your tasty bite of the Big Apple and that you will share your review with us by sending an email and some photos. We’d love to start a collection of your PetSetters inspired travels to share with our readers here at Pet360com.

Happy Tails,

Janine and Beau from LuxuryPaw

This article was originally published on Pet360.com

Photobombing Dog Helps Rent Apartment

Filed under: Dog Life,Travel & Leisure — mtest on March 27th, 2013

by Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell

He’s here, he’s there, he’s everywhere, it’s Otis, the photobombing dog who is trying to help his pet parents rent their Chicago apartment on Craig’s List.

The “sunny open 2 BR” as it is described in the ad in Chicago’s Lakeview East, is advertised for $1,900 a month, but the amenities, location and price may not be what ultimately seals the deal.

Otis appears in every photo, just lying on the living room floor, peeking out from behind the bed, or looking from around the kitchen bar.

Otis doesn’t come with the apartment, but his parents, John and Sara Kanive, thought the photobombing in the first picture was funny, according to ABCNews.com. “The first picture I took, of the living room, he was just laying on the floor,” John Kanive told ABCNews.com. ”So when I saw that picture, that’s when I got the idea to place him in all the pictures.”

But the move may have helped the couple and their dog rent the apartment, which was snatched up within 24 hours of the ad posting.

Kanive says that many people responded and many of them thought the photobomb was the bomb. They included “P.S., I love your dog,” he said.

When the apartment comes up for rent again, will the next inhabitants photobomb a cat into their ad?

The ad ends, “Dogs are OK: woof” and “Cats are OK: purrr.”

What do you think of this unique idea to sell or rent a home?

Photo of Otis via Craigslist

This article was originally published on Pet360.com

A Wag Worthy Weekend in Boston, MA

Filed under: Dog Life,Travel & Leisure — mtest on March 26th, 2013

by Janine Franceschi

When we aren’t travelling, Beau and I live in Boston, so we can tell you first hand (and paw) that in Boston we love our dogs and we’ll love your dog too! So bring him along the next time you head to ‘Beantown.’

Boston has long been referred to as a ‘walking town,’ meaning you can literally walk everywhere. This is a fantastic feature for a city to have when you travel with your leashed loved one. Not only that but your well behaved, leashed pup is welcome on Boston’s subway system, the ‘T’ as long as it isn’t rush hour or a busy holiday. Visit the Traveling With a Pet page at MBTA for all the details.

Between walking and the T access getting to the Boston Common for a romp at the public off leash dog area (near Joy Street) is easy.

The area also boasts the Public Garden where you can visit the ducks of the iconic children’s book, “Make Way for Ducklings.” The area also features the Esplanade where you can walk, picnic, or take in a free concert on the banks of the famous ‘Muddy Water’ of the Charles River. Another great option is to head to the Commonwealth Mall where you can stroll among the classic brownstones of Boston’s elite.

Your choices are seemingly endless when it comes to choosing a pet-friendly route through the city. However, if you only have one or two afternoons to introduce your pup to Boston, we have a soft spot in our hearts for the Beacon Hill and Back Bay neighborhoods. (While you are in Beacon Hill, keep an eye out for that handsome red-head Beau, this is the neighborhood he calls home and he’s something of a local celebrity here; they know him at every retailer who hands out dog biscuits, the hardware store, the dry-cleaners and the local market).

Hungry (For More Than Kibble)?

It’s so like us to think of food first.

If you have a pup that can wait patiently leashed on the patio for you while you go in and place your order then find a sidewalk table at one of our favorite little patisseries, Café Vanille in Beacon Hill. Casual offerings coffee, tea, and pastries can be enjoyed on their patio located on a bustling village corner surrounded by classic Beacon Hill brick buildings overlooking the charming Charles Street. It is a wonderful place to sit and enjoy a nibble with some great people and for puppy watching. You’ll be amazed at the amount of dogs that call Beacon Hill home, but it will explain why there’s a water bowl every two or three shops and two pet boutiques in one block.

Ok, alternative number two for pups (like Beau) who really don’t like to wait outside alone; you can head over to Newbury Street in the Back Bay neighborhood. Here you will find plenty of outdoor dining and although some will tell you that dogs are not allowed on the patios (citing the City of Boston Health Code). If you ask different sidewalk hosts or hostesses they might be able to make an exception, just this once for your well behaved angel. You’ll most likely be able to find one or two who are willing.

However, if your angel is feeling a little less than angelic on this particular day, please be considerate of the other patrons and grab a doggie bag. All of us, when we travel with our pets have taken on the mission of representing pet-toting travelers everywhere and need to set a standard of responsible behavior when we do so.

Thirsty (For Affection)?

Now, for that puppy who was so well behaved at lunch, if you continue to stroll down Newbury Street you will find one of Beau’s favorite (I’m not exaggerating) places in the world the Fish and Bone a wonderful pet boutique located at 217 Newbury Street. Open every day 9:30-6:30 (and I’ve seen them open later) not only will they lavish sincere affection (because believe me dogs can tell) on your pup, but they carry the most wonderful selection of toys, treats, specialty organic and raw food diets gift items for your pet or the pet-lover in your life. They do this in truly an educated, effortless, and artistic presentation. It encourages you to linger.

We just love the Fish and Bone and I think you will too. Say hello to Kathy and Zip and tell them Beau from LuxuryPAW sent you.

Time to PLAY!

After all that walking wouldn’t it feel nice to submerge your tired muscles into warm soothing water and have a Hydro massage? I’m talking to the dog here… the Red Dog Resort & Spa is just the place. They offer a 30 minute Hydro massage for the pup at $35. In addition to the water therapy offerings, Red Dog offers both fitness and fun swims in their heated pools which are exciting and rejuvenating ways to treat your dog to the joys of swimming. Sessions are approximately 20 minutes or 30 minutes long and include splashing in the water and directed play with their Fitness Practitioner.

Sessions are by appointment only so please call ahead. Canine members of the same family can swim in a group for even more fun at a very affordable rate between $25 and $35 per session.

One Pooped Pup? Nighty-Night & Sweet Puppy Dreams!

When it comes to finding a pet-friendly hotel in Boston there are so many wonderful and varied choices. Just a sampling; the city offers three pet-friendly hotels including the Kimpton Hotels, multiple Westin Hotels, a new W Hotel offering their trademark, “Whatever Whenever” concierge services and the traditional Boston classics – The Four Seasons Boston, and The Boston Harbor Hotel.

However, Beau and I are partial to an elite few; XV Beacon ,the Taj Boston, and the Mandarin Oriental Boston and all three are in the Beacon Hill or Back Bay neighborhood. If we had to choose one of these three, I’m sure Beau would go with XV Beacon (and hey, who am I to argue?). XV Beacon is a fashionable boutique hotel with a wonderful pet program, but Beaus favorite part of the XV Beacon pet program is Heidi, the resident Burmese Mountain Dog. Always a fan with the ladies! If you see Heidi tell her Beau sends a big (wet/sloppy) kiss and watch her tail start wagging!

Happy Tails to You Wherever You May Roam,

Janine & Beau

This article originally appeared on Pet360.com.

Non-Traditional Places That Welcome Dogs

Filed under: Dog Life,Travel & Leisure — mtest on March 20th, 2013

by Carol Bryant

Pet-friendly hotels and bed and breakfasts have sprung up across the world, and with an estimated 72 million dogs sharing American households, people are traveling in droves with pets.

Beyond the pet-friendly accommodations, there are many non-traditional establishments that welcome pets. Malls, gallerias, restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, and boating excursions have begun rolling out the welcome mat to Fido and his family.

Malls

Grab a leash and a credit card, as shopping is going to the dogs, quite literally. The aptly named Stony Point Fashion Park in Richmond, Virginia boasts over 90 stores, many which allow dogs inside. Get a bargain and shop with your dog: Talk about retail therapy. There is no breed, weight, or size limits and all stores that welcome dogs have a sticker indicating so in their front window. Try a Google search on “dog friendly malls” and see what turns up in your area.

Restaurants

From coast to coast, canines are being catered to in al fresco style. Many restaurants and outdoor cafes are opening their doors to dogs, as long as they are well-behaved. Yours truly has been to many a restaurant where my dog sits quietly by my side as a toddler throws a temper tantrum nearby, but I digress.

In compliance with state health codes, more and more eateries are realizing that the way to their patron’s hearts is through their stomach and at the end of a leash—Fido’s. If you are traveling, call ahead or check the local visitor’s bureau to find out what restaurants allow dogs either inside or on their patio.

Sea-Faring Fidos

From whale watching to day cruises, more waterways have adopted the pet-welcoming mantra. My dog and I took a whale-watching excursion in Cape Cod and had a wonderful time. One must ensure that Fido does not get sea sick, so never make a first water trip a long one. Boats and vessels will not turn around and come back if dogs get sick.

Canine Coffeehouse

Do you like to get together with friends for lunch or perhaps get caught up on work in a quiet environment? Coffee hounds can unite where dogs are welcome and embrace the chill out and enjoy the moment attitude as Fido kicks back with you. When in doubt, make a call to your local coffee house and inquire about their dog welcoming policy.

Wherever you go and whatever you do in the course of your day or when vacationing, dogs are part of our culture and part of our travel plans. Retailers are starting to getting wiser to welcoming our well-behaved canine family members to their establishments. We spend more when the entire family can visit, so it is certainly a win-win.

Do you travel or visit places with your dog?

About Carol Bryant

This article was originally published on Pet360.com.

Chocolate Helps Homeless Animals

Filed under: Products & Reviews,Travel & Leisure — mtest on February 25th, 2013

One very special chocolate company, though, puts a sweet new twist on that popular expression of love. Rescue Chocolate, a company based in Brooklyn, sells vegan, kosher, and handcrafted candies using organic and fairly traded chocolate. Best of all, Rescue Chocolate’s profits go entirely to animal rescue organizations.

“We work with a different animal rescue group every month, as our featured partner,” explains founder/owner Sarah Gross. The company also teams with other groups on an ongoing basis, selling chocolate at below-wholesale prices for the groups to sell at adoption events or auctions.

The company is the culmination of a lifelong dream that combines two passions: chocolate and animals. “Helping animals has been a long-standing passion of mine. Back in middle school, I used to volunteer at my local animal shelter where I grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana. Around the same time, I became a vegetarian and then a vegan, because I didn’t want to eat animals or animal byproducts,” recalls the chocolatier. “My interest in gourmet dark chocolate has been a more recent passion. A few years ago I was on a mission to buy (and eat!) all the exotic dark chocolate bars I could find. I also worked at a raw chocolate company where I developed a best-selling flavor. So one morning in December 2009, I had just finished eating a chocolate bar for breakfast (doesn’t everyone?!) and was out walking my dog in the park, when I got the inspiration to combine my two passions into one business.”

The inspiration to combine those loves into Rescue Chocolate was nudged along by Gross’ 5-year-old rescued pit bull named Mocha. “I don’t know much about the early months of her life, but I can surmise that they were horrific. A good Samaritan found her wandering the streets emaciated. Her ears were severely cropped, and she had recently had a litter of puppies. Most likely, she had been in the clutches of dogfighters who then abandoned her when they realized that she is a lover instead of a fighter.”

Today sweet Mocha serves as cover girl for Rescue Chocolate, reminding the public that “Pit Bulls will reflect back what they receive from their human companions, whether that is love and affection or the opposite.” On this Valentine’s Day, hopefully this rescued beauty will inspire lovers to not only enjoy tasty chocolates but to also fund a cause that helps lost, abandoned, and abused dogs and cats find the love they deserve.

Visit Rescue Chocolate.

This post was originally published in full on Pet360.com in the Bark and Purrtect blog.

Dog Safety for Car Travel

Filed under: Dog Health,Travel & Leisure — DoggySpace on February 6th, 2010

Automobile accidents in which pets are involved have become so common that most major auto insurance companies have begun to cover pets that ride in the automobile in their policy coverage. If you’re one of the 29 million pet owners who frequently travel with their pet, it may be time to invest in a car seat, belt, or carrier to ensure your dog’s automobile safety.

Fortunately, dog car safety doesn’t mean having to coop your pet up in a kennel, although that is an option for many pet owners. Many dog product makers now make automobile safety devices, like the PetBuckle Seatbelt Harness for all dogs or the PetGear Dog Booster Seat for small dogs. No matter what method you choose it is as important to restrain your dog during any length of automobile trip, as it is to buckle up yourself. Even a fender bender can result in severe damage to your dog if he or she is thrown about or hit by objects that may shift in the vehicle.

Another important aspect of safe dog travel is to ensure that your pet doesn’t hang their head out of the window. A dog whose head is out of the window is more likely to be injured by bugs, flying debris, or severely harmed in the event of an accident. Dogs whose heads are outside of the vehicle can be thrown out of the vehicle or have their trachea crushed by impact with the window frame during an accident.

Any time you transport your dog it is important to make sure that his or her ID tag is attached to the collar. Not only will this help identify your pet in the case of an accident but will help your pet be returned to you should they escape from the vehicle as you are exiting or entering.

Another thing you should carry with you is an emergency list. Creating a sticker, similar to CHAD stickers often placed on children’s Car seats, is likely the best way to ensure your pet’s health and care in the event of an accident. This list should include information such as the dog’s veterinarian’s name and number, and emergency contacts. In the event of an accident this could help your pet to get the medical care it needs, or aid in helping rescuers to return him or her to their family.

We do a lot to prevent injury and loss due to automobile accidents for ourselves, and our canine companions should be no different. By securing your pet while he or she rides in the vehicle, ensuring that your dog is tagged and emergency information is on hand, and protecting them from dangers outside of the moving vehicle, you can give your pet the safe ride he or she deserves.

Safe and Easy Dog Travel by Plane

Filed under: Travel & Leisure — DoggySpace on February 1st, 2010

If you have to take travel by plane and need to take your dog you may be worried about what to expect. All airlines will require your pet to have advanced reservations and separate tickets. Taking your pet on the plane will more than likely mean storing them in the cargo area, as only very small dogs are allowed onboard. Tickets for pets can cost more than seats for humans, even if they are onboard and going under the seat. Either way, your dog will need to remain kenneled the entire time they are on the flight.

Before your dog flies you will need to have him or her checked out by a Veterinarian, and will need records of their vaccinations, often referred to as a health certificate. They can’t fly without it. You will also want to make sure that you have enough time between flights to let your dog go potty.

If you’re worried that your pet will need to use the potty during a long flight pee pads or a doggie diaper may be in order. Make sure your pet is in a hard sided travel carrier, and that they’re comfortable and have a toy or two to entertain them. Save feeding until after they’ve departed the plane. You will want to talk to your vet about the safety concerns surrounding your dog’s flight. For some dogs Dramamine or a sedative may be desirable, for others sedation may increase a risk of liver, kidney, or heart failure due to the stress of flight.

When you’re parting from your pet make sure to not make a scene. If you treat the departure and experience as commonplace your pet is less likely to get anxious. Always tip the baggage handler who takes your pet to the hold. Tell baggage handler which flight your pet’s going on, and even your pooch’s name. A tipped attendant is more likely to give your pet the care you’d like. When you finally board your flight tell the flight attendant that you are traveling with your pet, and politely ask them to check on the temperature in the hold. This will let them know that your pet is aboard and that you are concerned. Likely the attendant will return to tell you that they’ve physically checked in on your dog.

If your dog is in the hold he or she will come off the plane first. This will give you plenty of time to pick up your luggage before going to the oversized baggage area, which is where you’ll find your pet. Just like when you’re waiting for your suitcase to come off the plane, wondering if it arrived all right, you may feel nervous as you wait for your dog’s arrival. Don’t be afraid to ask a baggage attendant about the whereabouts of your pet. Even if they don’t know or aren’t sure where your pet is, be patient, because your pet is likely to be unloaded last.

Dog Travel & Recreational Vehicle Camping

Filed under: Travel & Leisure — DoggySpace on December 5th, 2009

The decision to let your dog travel in your recreational vehicle while you vacation or retire may seem like a no-brainer. It’s your home away for home and no one would dream of leaving man’s best friend behind.

While it may seem a simple choice, taking Fido along in your RV can pose a lot of travel problems. The biggest, and possibly most surprising difficulty, is that there are a large number of campgrounds and rv resorts that have strict regulations about dogs. While a majority of parks, including state and national parks, are dog friendly some rv resorts and campgrounds restrict the size or breed of dogs they will allow you to bring. Dog breeds who are popularly seen as ‘dangerous’ like Pit Bulls or Rottweilers, or dog breeds who are factually known for their feisty behavior may not be allowed. Large breeds and giant sized dogs are often discouraged at RV parks, from Golden Retrievers to Great Danes. Always check with the RV resort or campground you are traveling to in order to ensure that they are dog-friendly and will allow your pet to stay. Don’t try and argue if they hold a prejudice against your pet’s breed or size. Most campgrounds have likely heard your argument a hundred times and already rejected it. And even if you do convince them that your dog will be no problem you can be sure that they’ll watch you like a hawk, which means more stress and less fun for you and your family. Instead, just find a different place to camp. The chances are the amenities will be the same and you’ll all enjoy the experience more knowing that everyone in your family is welcome.

All campgrounds and resorts will require that your pet to be leashed at all times when they are outside of your vehicle. While some campgrounds will allow you to leave your dog outside on a short run on cool days, or to set up a dog house or play yard for your pet, most will not. Other rules that campgrounds may impose are no barking dogs after a certain time in the evening. If your dog’s a barker and you’re staying for more than one night this can become a real headache. Frequent campers with bark prone dogs often invest in a bark deterrent collar. This investment can save you from a lot of complaints or being asked to leave the campground due to a ‘mouthy’ pet. A few RV resorts, especially those in the south where temperatures can get quite high, have rules that restrict owners from leaving their pets in their RV while the owner is away. Even if you’ve left the air conditioning on these resorts see it as leaving your pet in a vehicle on the grounds that, should something go wrong with the cooling system, your pet could easily die of heatstroke. Always make sure you ask any campground or resort to which you are traveling what their rules are for both your specific dog’s breed and their rules for pets in general.

The actual traveling with your dog in an RV can pose other, often unconsidered of, issues. Recreational Vehicles are large and unwieldy to maneuver so emergency stops for a doggy potty break can be hard to make. Be sure to walk your dog every time you take a break to stretch your legs or get out of the vehicle. Dogs may also become nervous in a new place, so it’s a good idea to bring a kennel that you can put your pet in should they become agitated. Another, larger, problem is that of leaving your pet in the RV alone. While a recreational vehicle is a home away from home it is still a vehicle and it is illegal in most states to leave your pet in your vehicle, even if you have a generator to run your air conditioning. When traveling try, as much as possible, to find places that are dog friendly for you to eat, shop, swim, or sightsee at. Planning your route in advance, as well as the things you want to see, will help you to ensure that you don’t break the law. If you need to do something you can’t do with your dog, do some research in advance to find a boarding kennel so you can still enjoy yourself without endangering your pet.

Your pet’s health is another thing you must plan in advance. While camping your dog may come into contact with another animal – most often squirrels, chipmunks, and raccoons – that can carry rabies. Some states have heavy tick and flea populations, which can endanger your pet’s health with lyme disease or infections. Worms may also be a problem, as dogs are sure to run afoul of other animal’s feces so make sure your dog is on a preventative for all three parasites. Depending on your vacation destination biting flies and mosquitoes may present another health hazard. Make sure to bring a pet-safe bug spray, just in case biting insects bother them. As always when you travel away from home bring your pet’s medical and shot records. You may need them if your pet is injured or if you need to kennel your dog.

The Recreational Vehicle itself may pose a hazard to your pet if you aren’t prepared. For all animals filling the propane tanks can be a danger, and you should always remove all pets from the vehicle when your tanks are filled. This is due to the small possibility that heat could ignite fumes from the filling tank and the RV could explode. For small dogs the smaller space means a higher risk of bone fractures and breaks from being stepped on. If you have a small dog, make sure to shuffle your feet instead of picking them up to walk to avoid accidentally damaging your dog’s tiny bones. Another injury risk, especially for small dogs, is entering or exiting the recreational vehicle. Try to place a mat or cushioning of some kind at the base of your RV’s stairs so that your dog will not injure himself when jumping.

While taking your dog with you while you travel in your RV may mean more planning, having your four-legged friend at your side to enjoy the natural settings of campgrounds or take walks down meandering trails can enrich your vacation.

Dog Travel Safety: Planning the Perfect Vacation With Your Dog

Filed under: Dog Health,Travel & Leisure — DoggySpace on October 1st, 2009

Many of us enjoy letting the family dog travel with us. Besides cutting costs for dog boarding, and relieving worry about causing abandonment issues for your pet, traveling with your dog can be an enjoyable experience. From Dog friendly beaches, state parks, and even dog friendly outdoor arts and entertainment the possibilities for fun travel with your dog are endless.

When you’re vacation planning think about taking your pet. Check online for dog friendly motels, or contact the friends and family you may be planning to visit to check if your pet is welcome. A lot of motels and hotels will allow your pet to stay in the room, as long as you use a dog kennel, or portable crate, if you should want to do something without your pet. If the hotel or family you will be staying with doesn’t want your pet staying home alone look around for local dog boarding businesses. Also check online for local parks, beaches, and outdoor venues such as boardwalks or amphitheaters to find activities that both you and your dog can enjoy.

Look forward to your vacation with your dog, but don’t forget about pet health. Taking the family pet on vacation can raise some very good health concerns. What if your dog gets lost? What if you’re in a car accident? These are just a couple of the common concerns about traveling with your dog.

Fortunately, taking care of your dogs health related travel concerns is easier than planning the perfect vacation.

Here’s a list of some pet travel safety concerns to check before traveling with your pet:

Does your dog get carsick? If they do, make sure to stock up on some Dramamine for motion sickness. While the over the counter motion sickness medication for humans – commonly called Dramamine – is often used, to much success, with pet motion sickness, make sure to check with your vet before using it. Too high a dosage can cause your pet harm, while too low a dose may not do much to help them. The common dosage for dogs is 4 mg per pound, given at least one half hour before travel. If your dog doesn’t get motion sick but does suffer from auto anxiety you may want to try out some over the counter medications for pet anxiety such as Serene-um or Pet Calm, instead of Dramamine.

Whether you’re traveling by car, or plane, make sure to plan enough stops or time in layovers, to properly exercise your pet.

Will you be doing any driving? While making sure your insurance or rental car insurance covers your pet can help in the unfortunate event of an auto accident, the best way to protect your pet in the car is to use a dog seatbelt or dog sling. Petsmart or your local pet store often carries a variety of dog car harness options, for all size dogs.

What if your pet gets lost? Of course, at home, a Lost Dog paper on the lamp-post might help you find a lost pet, but what about when you’re on vacation? A dog tag is a sure way to help you find your pet, but the quickest method is microchipping, a painless process which allows your pet to be easily located should they become lost. No matter which method you choose, should your pet get lost immediately call the local dog shelters and pounds with a description of your dog.

Be sure to get a copy of your dog’s shot records from your veterinarian to bring. If you plan to use a dog boarding or kennel business while you’re away from home, or your pet gets injured or sick you will find that you need them.

All of these things can work to make your vacation stress free, but you might still come home with a sick dog. Pet diseases can very greatly from one place to another so it’s highly recommended that you guard your dog’s health by calling a veterinarian local to where you’re taking your vacation. Let them know that you’re planning a vacation with your dog in their area and were concerned about any potential health hazards. Veterinarians will willingly inform you if there are flea and tick infestations, or even if there’s been a rash of cases of hookworm or ringworm so that you can protect your dog against infection or infestation. Advantage Mutli, or similar once a month topical solutions, can help prevent not only flea and tick infestations but heartworms, hookworms, and ringworms as well.

Following these tips will help you be prepared so that you and your dog can enjoy a little time away. Remember: a great vacation starts with a little planning, but the best vacation includes man’s best friend!

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