Traveling with your dog is wonderful, but are you ready?

By Otto Rodriguez PetLifePro.com If you are one of the many pet owners who consider your dog part of the family and you’re planning that first road trip with your furry friend, there are some things you need to know, because taking Rex with you on a long trip isn’t as simple as jumping in the car and hitting the highway. Vacationing with your pet can be an amazing experience but a successful trip requires planning, patience, and flexibility. Here are some tips to make that trip a positive experience: 1) Make sure your pet is ready for the trip. If you suspect your dog is sick or prompt to illnesses, consider leaving him or her with a relative or at a kennel. This is especially true for dogs eight years and older or that are not in good shape. 2) If your best friend has a microchip it’s a good idea to check its functionality and that the information is up to date. If he does not have one, consider getting a microchip for your pet as it can be very useful in locating it in case he or she runs away or gets lost. 3) If you are renting a car, consider the size of the vehicle. A small Yorkie will surely fit almost anywhere, but if your dog is a much larger size, wouldn’t you want him or her to ride comfortably? 4) Pack enough water, food and any medication that your pet needs. There’s already enough stress placed on our furry friends when you travel with them, and you don’t want to change up their eating habits. If you stay at a pet-friendly hotel, refuse politely any treat offered at the front desk, because you don’t want to take the chance of making your pet ill. 5) If you are planning to visit National Parks, make sure they accept pets. For an extremely pet-friendly National Park, try Acadia, in Maine. It’s a paradise for dogs. Use the same logic for lodging. 6) Plan ahead and make time for breaks. The same way you need to stretch your legs and go to the bathroom, your furry friend needs some comfort too. 7) Is your pet up to date with their required vaccines? Make sure to bring any documentation that proves it. Most kennels require your pet to have all the vaccines current. 8) Do not leave your pet in a parked car, not even with the A/C on. It poses a great risk to the life and health of your dog, and it’s illegal in many states.