It’s the holiday, your kids are out of school for winter break, the price of gasoline is down, and you want to take a family vacation.
So, you figure, let’s drive and bring our dog. He’s a 5-year-old mellow Labrador retriever.
If you’re staying with family or friends, it’s best to call and ask first if your dog would be a welcome guest. Maybe someone in the family is allergic to dogs, or they have dogs or cats that are not dog friendly.
Just because you get along, it doesn’t mean your dog will.
Possibly, they just don’t like dogs. Typically, people who do not like dogs have some sort of fear of dogs. It has nothing to do with you or your pal.
If that is the case, there are Airbnb or Vrbo options that are dog-friendly as well as hotels and motels. Some of the major chains of motels and hotels that welcome dogs are Motel 6, Hampton by Hilton, Red Roof Inn, Best Western and various Marriotts.
Bring a crate for your dog to sleep in, a dog bed to put on the floor and a dog gate, in case there are rooms that are off-limits.
An unpleasant experience with your dog in someone else’s home can ruin a vacation, put a strain on your relationship, and make your friend or relative not like your dog and thus not visit your home where your dog is.
Bring a bowl for food and water and all dog food supplies, including a can opener. Also bring your dogs’ toys, leash and poop bags.
Do you share your bed and furniture with your dog at home? Do not expect that your host will be as enthusiastic as you in allowing dogs to be on the furniture.
Be sure you ask where they want you to feed your dog and where your dog should sleep. Ask if your dog can go into their yard and if it is secure, and if there are any areas in the house where they do not want your dog to go.
If there are rooms that they prefer your dog does not go in, you have your dog gate.
Never just let your dog loose in their house, hoping everything will work out.
Your dog is stressed and anxious in its new surroundings. Let it adjust to the new sights and smells. Never let your pet out of its carrier and hope everything works out by itself.
Take your pal to the groomer before the trip or bathe it yourself. Be sure its vaccines are up to date. Give it its flea and tick medications prior to the trip. A dirty dog does not make a good house guest.
Does your pal sleep in your bed at home? Then, you may need to make some adjustments when you are in a new place, like your dog crate.
Maybe you should get your pal somewhat adjusted to the crate for a week or so at home. Be sure you put either one of your shirts or a blanket from home in the crate. The smell will comfort your pal when it is away from home.
If they ask you to keep the crate in the garage, ask if you could put it in the guest room you are sleeping in. Your dog will be much happier and not whine, and you will be happier to have your pal nearby.
No matter how things turn out, do not forget to send a thank-you card to your host, whether it is your family or friend. You may send it with flowers to express your gratitude for their hospitality.
If your pal did something wrong, it is also a good opportunity to apologize.
Whether you are a guest at someone’s home or someone is your guest, it is your responsibility to have your dog trained to simple commands such as stay, sit and come. Train your dog to have a good relationship with kids and with other people.
