Doggie Road Trip: Guide to Car or RV Travel for Dog Owners

If you're getting ready to hit the road, RV style or by car and you're thinking of taking the dog, there are few things you should learn first. Taking a road trip with your dog can be a memorable experience for the whole family. Who wouldn't want to share the finest moments in life with their dog? You'll need to prepare ahead in order to make the trip as safe and comfortable as possible for Fido. Here are some road tested tips to help you and your dog travel the open road.

Many places across the US and Canada allow pets and their owners to lodge, eat, and play in harmony with other guests. Of course, each establishment will have their own guidelines for dogs but generally speaking your pet should be well behaved, supervised, and leashed most of the time. Plan a route that includes dog friendly stops every 2-3 hours for extended trips.

The Internet is a useful tool when researching dog friendly travel and there are several websites that can help you find lodging and activities. When planning your road trip log onto petfriendlytravel.com to search the US and Canada for lodging, campgrounds, beaches, parks, shopping, restaurants, rentals, and entertainment. Pet Friendly Travel is a great website for dog owners looking for things to do while on vacation with the dog.

When looking for lodging make sure that your dog is actually welcome first. If possible ask other dog owners if they have traveled with their dog and where they stayed. Getting an opinion from a friend or neighbor can be a great help in your search for a hotel or campground. Often on family vacations it is customary to stop by a family members home while in town.

Make sure that Fido is welcome before barging in with the dog, especially if he or she is not friendly with strangers or easily excited by children. If you are traveling by RV you will find it easy to road trip with the dog. Many hotels and inns will not let you leave your dog unattended either so this may be something you want to consider before booking a room.