Of Hounds and Hotels

Vacation time is fast approaching, and since your dog is part of the family, you’d probably like to bring him along.

If a hotel stay is in the offing, it’s not as simple as just showing up at the lodging establishment with Fido in tow. You’ll need to do some research and/or call ahead to make sure there’s a hotel in the area you will be visiting that accepts pets. There are many good travel books that can steer you in the dog-friendly direction, including the “Dog Lover’s Companion” series by Maria Goodavage and even books from the American Automobile Association. There are plenty of helpful websites, too, such as www.dogfriendly.com and www.pet-friendly-hotels.net.

Even if a hotel is listed in one of these places, you should ask about the pet policy when you call in your room reservation, since things may have changed. Also, be sure to inquire about any size or breed restrictions that may apply.

There are a few preliminary steps you can take to ensure a happy vacation for all concerned. These simple preparations will provide peace of mind for you and can be life-saving if your dog becomes lost, ill, or injured while you’re traveling.

 

1. Ensure that your dog has some method of identification in addition to tags. Microchipping vastly increases the chances that your dog will be returned to you if he gets lost.
2. Take along copies of your dog’s veterinary records.
3. Carry a recent photo of your dog.
4. Pack a special bag just for your dog, including his favorite toys, bedding, grooming tools, leash, food, and food dishes.
5. Be sure to take along water dishes (collapsible ones are great for traveling) and plenty of pooper bags.
6. Locate the closest vet to where you will be staying, in case of emergency. Your hotel may be able to provide recommendations.

 

Once you’ve arrived at your vacation destination and have settled into your hotel room, there are a few golden rules you should follow.

Never leave your dog in the hotel room alone. Even the most well-trained dog may damage furnishings and/or bark incessantly when left in an unfamiliar location. This will prevent housekeeping staff from cleaning your room and will certainly annoy your neighbors!

If your dog is a puppy or is not especially well-trained, bring a crate along to use as his down-time sanctuary.

Always clean up after your dog immediately.

Even if a hotel doesn’t require that your dog be on leash in public areas, it’s not a good idea to let Fido roam freely among strangers who might be canine-phobic. For the safety of all, leash your dog on hotel grounds.

By setting a good example as a pet owner while staying at dog-friendly hotels, you are doing a good deed for all human and canine travelers. Happy trails!

Beverly Ulbrich is owner/operator of The Pooch Coach LLC and an internationally-known dog trainer. She makes regular appearances as the Dog Commentator on KRON-TV 4, and has been on MythBusters, Animal Planet, and various other national and local TV programs, as well as in movies. Beverly can be reached at info@poochcoach.com or 415-643-3333.

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