7 Ways To Make Traveling With A Large Dog Easier
Do Your Research on Air Travel
Unless they are service dogs, large dogs cannot fly with you in the cabin. They can, however, be flown as cargo. Everyone has heard a horror story of pets flown in cargo, but it is important to note that only one out of 10,000trips leads to an incident. Generally speaking, it is perfectly safe, but that doesn’t mean it is not stressful (for both you and the dog). Do extensive research on the specific airline you are thinking of using and their approach to pets in cargo. It is probably easier to avoid flying altogether wherever a less stressful alternative exists.
Train Them to Enjoy Car Rides
Many dogs don’t enjoy car rides and need to be acclimatized before embarking on a long trip. This can be done through progressive exposureto the car: start by just getting them to sit in their spot, then move on to sitting with the engine on, and then short journeys. Use treats and encouragement at every step to let them know they are going a good job and that the car is an exciting place.
Be Prepared for the Road
Long road trips can be tiring for everyone involved, so be prepared to keep your dog happy, healthy, and distracted. First, you’ll need to ensure your dog will be secure during the trip. Puppies and small dogs do well with car or booster seats, which both give them some room to move around while keeping them safely buckled in. Large dogs that are veteran road warriors may like a seatbelt that buckles right into the seat, but if they haven’t gotten used to car rides yet, consider crating them and securing their kennel snugly between rows of seats. Additionally, your dog road trip kit should include comfortable bedding, a ball or Frisbee for playing with at rest stops, a favorite toy, dog food and treats, dog waste bags, and plenty of water (at least a gallon).
Use Supplements to Help Them Relax
CBD oil has shown promising results in helping animals with phobias and anxiety, and it could be useful if your dog tends to get stressed in new surroundings. Check out online buyers’ guides to learn more about your options for CBD brands and treatments, and then talk to your vet if you think it might be a good fit for your pooch.
Choose Dog-Friendly Destinations
A dog-friendly destination is anywhere that has plenty of great open spaces for walks. Nature-based destinations are always a good idea, but cities with great parks or beaches are also great fun for your dog. If you need some inspiration, Go Pet Friendlyhas pet-centered guides available for over 300 destinations across the USA and Canada.
Consider a Home Rental
There are plenty of dog-friendly hotels, but they tend to favor small dogs over large ones. No matter your pup’s size, you are likely to have better luck with home rentals, especially those with large outdoor spaces. Bring Fidois a great resource for finding your perfect vacation spot.
Use a Dog-Sitting Service
Even the most dog-friendly destinations include non-dog-friendly activities. If you want to go to, say, a museum or a concert, use an online service to find a reliable pet sitter in your destination. PSI has sitters across the US and is even operational in many major European cities.
As pet parents, we love our dogs, and we hate leaving them behind when we travel. Whether your dog is old or young, you can always bring them along on adventures with you. You just need to think ahead, use the right resources, and make their happiness and comfort a pri
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