Numerous campgrounds, B&Bs, inns, hotel chains, and resorts throughout the U.S. and Canada welcome guests with well-behaved dogs. Some charge a minimal one-time extra cleaning fee in advance; others do not.
When making a reservation, be sure to ask if pets are allowed. If the answer is yes, ask if there are any special house rules. You may not be allowed to leave the dog alone in the room while you are out, for instance. Or the property may only accept animals up to a certain weight.
If dogs are not permitted, and you still want to stay there, ask the reservationist to recommend a local boarding kennel, or call an area animal shelter for a recommendation.
Having worked at the ASPCA and seen tragedies that can befall animals on the road, I urge you to follow these guidelines to insure your dog's comfort and safety:
1. Before leaving home, especially if you haven't had your dog for long, take her on a test drive. Not all dogs are good travelers. Some get extremely anxious; others suffer from car sickness. Dogs like that are better left behind with someone responsible caring for them.
2. If your dog, like most, loves to ride in the car, great. Invest in a safety seat, restraint, or carrier to keep her extra secure.
3. Pack water and a plastic drinking bowl and allow her frequent stops to drink and relieve herself.
4. Bring dog food and treats from home.
5. Keep her on the leash at all times.
6. Don't allow her to stick her head out the window. She could fall out, be hit by debris, or get something in her eye. Trust me: You don't want to spend any of your vacation time and loot in a strange veterinarian's office.
7. Never leave her alone in a locked car in heat or severe cold. The hotter it is, and the longer you are gone, the more likely she will suffer terribly and perish in this situation.
After taking reasonable precautions and reaching your dog-friendly destination, you'll be ready to go out and have a great time with your dog.
Whether your travels take you to the beach, a park, or elsewhere in the great outdoors, there's nothing like having your best four-footed friend there to enjoy it with the two of you.
