Never before have hotels, motels and other types of lodgings been more
pet-friendly. Check with lodgings in the areas you plan to stay to find out
their policies on pets. You’ll likely be surprised with the eagerness many will
accept pets. Below you will find Web sites that specialize in finding
dog-friendly places to stay.
Also, remember that many places, such as national parks, will have their own
rules regarding pets. Make sure to check ahead of time or you and your pet may
be in for a disappointment.
Keep Your Pet Comfortable
On long rides, about three hours is as long as you should go without
allowing your dog out of the car to stretch and use the restroom. Keep plastic
bags on hand (figuratively and literally) to clean up any “messes” your pet may
make. Also, always keep water available for your pet. You may notice some dogs
that love being in a car will still pant uncontrollably while the car is in
motion. Make sure to keep them hydrated.
Keeping familiar items in the car for your pet such as a food bowl, favorite
toy, etc., will also help your pet to enjoy the ride. Also, keep in mind that
cats often have a harder time dealing with new places and situations than dogs.
Often, just being with its’ “pack” or family is enough to keep a dog happy. As
cat owners know, however, cats can be a bit more complex, so some extra work in
making your feline friend comfortable may be in order.
Finally, always make sure your pet has plenty of ventilation and never leave
your pet inside the car with the windows rolled up, regardless of temperature,
though if you leave your animal in an unventilated automobile in hot weather,
you are taking a serious risk with your pet’s health.