How to have a ‘pawsome’ vacay

CHENNAI: Since we have become pet parents to our four dogs Snoopy, Sarah, Gurguri and Googly travelling has taken a backseat. Leaving them behind while we holiday seems to be little unfair plus finding a safe and reliable boarding and then the attendant costs and worries really made the whole idea futile. But things are turning around.Fortunately for us pet parents there have been an explosion of pet friendly destinations. However, planning ahead is essential, and here are the few tips that you need to keep in mind.

Will have access to the entire property

Don’t just go by ‘pet-friendly’ tag when you choose your hotel. Call and confirm. Ask specific questions about number of dogs they allow, or whether they have any specific restrictions of size and breed. Whether the pets will be allowed inside the room and will have access to the entire property.
Some ‘pet friendly’ hotels charge extra for allowing your pets.  
If your pet is on special diet, check whether the hotel will allow you use of the refrigerator to store food.
Ensure that your pet’s vaccination and shots are up to date and also get their anti tick collar.
Plan for all emergencies. Start by researching the areas you plan to visit.
Consult your vet and take a basic first aid kit and so on for cuts and wounds, allergy, stomach upset plus any medication your dog is on, or might need in case of an emergency. Gather information of all vets and clinics, near your place of visit.
Make a list of essential items – Food/water bowl, leash, collar, ID tags, dog waste bags, shampoo and towel. Lots of newspapers and old bed sheets should always be kept handy. Maybe one of his favourite toys. Make sure you pack enough dog food for the entire trip.
Before planning any trip, make an honest assessment about your dogs’ temperament and obedience. Respect the fact that there might be other guests who won’t be comfortable with dogs even in ‘pet friendly’ stays. Your pet should know commands like Sit, Come, and Stay and should listen to you to avoid any kind of potentially harmful situations in a new environment with new people or even out alone in wilderness.
Do not let them unleashed in any public place.They might get distracted and lost. Also it is very important to pick up after your dog and always carry a poo bag or newspaper or a cover to dispose them safely. Do not litter.
If you’re travelling by car make sure your dog is familiar with the experience.  
My Sarah and Googly both suffer with motion sickness. Stick to short travels and take necessary remedial measures to attend to this.
Safety is crucial. Dog harnesses rather than collars are any day a much safer bet. During the journey you should aim to stop every two hours to allow them to stretch their legs and answer Nature’s call. Make them drink water whenever you make a stop. Carry lots of drinking water with you. As a general rule avoid feeding your dogs near to the time of travel.
You can also think of getting doggy seats and doggy car harness available in all major pet shops and online to make your pet’s journey as comfortable as possible.
Whenever we reach the destination we always take all our four for a walk around the property to familiarise them with the lay of the land. Generally most dogs can adapt quite quickly to different environments, however that’s not always the case and shouldn’t be assumed as a given.
If you’re taking your dog on holiday with you for the first time, you should be wary about how they might respond to the sudden change.
Be cautious while walking in areas you don’t know particularly well, or where there are obvious hazards such as busy roads, cliff edges, open sea beaches or around other animals.
Please ensure that your dog is wearing a name tag as a precaution against the worst scenario that he gets separated from you.
Do not let your dog enter any water body without taking prior permission and also first check whether it is safe at all to enter especially ponds you might see in countryside.
We have been travelling with all our four dogs for few years now. The joy of seeing your pooch running unfettered in countryside or enjoying sea waves for the first time is inexplicable. Follow the basic rules and enjoy a wonderful holiday with your pet and make memories that will last forever.