Vacationing With Your Bully Breed

The excitement of planning your next family vacation might be tempered by the thought of leaving your dog behind, either in the care of someone else or at a kennel. However, you don’t have to let your dog miss out on the family vacation. She can be included in all of the fun. All you have to do is a little planning and your dog can come with you.

Here are some things to consider if you would like to take your dog with you on your next vacation:

• Transportation: If you are traveling by car, then having your dog along will not be difficult. Just be sure to have water available to her and stop to let her stretch her legs and move around every few hours. If you are traveling by airplane, then you must plan and pay for your dog’s trip. An airplane crate is required and is the safest way for your dog to fly if she is over 10 pounds. Make sure that you understand the rules for taking your dog in and out of the country if you are planning on traveling internationally. That includes Canada and Mexico whether you are traveling by car or airplane.


• Lodging: Some hotels and inns welcome guests with dogs. Some actually cater to the comfort of the dogs by providing treats, toys and bowls. Others simply allow dogs to stay. Always inquire as to whether there is an additional fee if a dog is staying in the room and whether there are any weight or size restrictions on the dogs that are allowed in the facility. Some campsites also allow dogs. Just be sure to keep a close eye on our dog to protect her from wild animals and other dangers. Rental homes or the homes of family and friends who are knowingly willing to allow dogs may also be a good choice for your family vacation.


• Activities: There are many activities you can enjoy with your dog. Look for hiking trails, parks or recreation areas that allow dogs. Some dogs might even enjoy swimming or a boat trip.


• Restaurants: While most restaurants do not allow dogs inside the restaurants, that does not mean that your dog can not accompany you to some restaurants. Some restaurants that offer outdoor seating allow dogs to dine with their people. You can find these restaurants in large cities and in the countryside.

If you chose to leave your dog at your vacation house or hotel while you eat inside a restaurant or pursue some indoor activities then be sure that your dog is comfortable in your absence. You can provide her with some treats and water as well as her favorite toys from home and possibly a shirt of yours that has your scent on it to make her feel more secure in her new surroundings.

With some proper planning, you can take your next vacation with your entire family including your family dog.

Written by Maria Lee of Oh My Dog Supplies - the top place to shop for dog beds online