The dog is part of the family and you hate leaving him behind. Anyway, he deserves a break too. Life as a pooch isn’t easy, people! Bringing a pet on holiday makes sense. In many ways, it’s cheaper because, otherwise, you have to pay for a kennel for the week. And, there is the hassle factor too. When the family canine is on the beach with you, there is no need to worry about his well-being. Anyone can see he’s having the time of his life.
If only loading the car with the luggage, the kids, and the dog was that easy. Alas, taking a pet on holiday is a pretty tricky thing to organise. It’s incredible how many establishments aren’t dog-friendly in 2018. Still, because they aren’t animal-lovers doesn’t mean the dream is over. In fact, it has only just begun.
Here are the tricks that will ensure your pet accompanies you on holiday this year and every year after. “Roll over, sit, wait – good boy. Now go and pack your bags!”
Choose A Road Trip
Airlines and train companies are snotty, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. The majority of people will suddenly think what else is left, and the answer is the car. Sure, the idea of driving doesn’t seem as if it’s a break. You spend the better part of the week chauffeuring the kids from school to footy practice and back and it’s exhausting. But, a road trip is different. For starters, the excitement will keep everyone going for a couple of miles at least. And, the best thing about it is that no can tell you to leave the pooch at home. Because it’s your car, it’s up to you who gets a seat in the automobile, and the odds are that man’s best friend is going to make the cut.
Register As An ESA
The chances are you don’t own a plane, so the dog’s holiday fate is in the hands of the airline. And, there’s a good opportunity that they won’t let it fly no matter what. There is limited space and these businesses don’t want “unnecessary” cargo taking up their much-needed room. So, it’s game over then? No, not necessarily and it’s thanks to the term “ESA” or emotional support animal. One of the benefits of emotional support animal is the fact that airlines can’t refuse it access to the plane. In many respects, it’s like telling a blind person that their guide dog isn’t welcome. In the same way that a blind passenger needs the animal to see, you need yours to protect your mental state. As an ESA, the family pooch should be able to travel anywhere with the full backing of the law.
Speak To The Hotel
Whether you’re driving or flying, it’s not a good idea to turn up unannounced with a dog. Firstly, the hotel might have a strict “no animals policy” and the whole booking will then be in jeopardy. Secondly, the establishment may not be happy about housing a pet for the duration, but they won’t like the fact that you didn’t speak to them initially. As petty as it sounds, some hotels will flatly refuse simply because the booking tried to pull a fast one. So, it’s always a good idea to speak to the accommodation owners in advance and get the lay of the land. They might be as pleased as punch to allow the dog to stay and there will be no problems. Or, they may refer you to the company’s policy and you’ll have to find a new place to stay.
Go Camping
Do you want a holiday that includes a vehicle of your choice without having to book a hotel? Well, you can as long as you embrace the Great Outdoors. Camping is a fantastic way to bond with the family, but, more than that, it’s a sneaky way to bring the canine along to enjoy the fun. You can drive down, which means there’s no need to bother about arguing with flight staff, and it’s like a mini-road trip. The kicker has to be the fact that almost every campsite is dog-friendly. After all, sites have enough space to accommodate a range of animals. It’s not as luxurious as a beach escape, but it’s as fulfilling.
Be Prepared
Finally, whichever option you choose, please be prepared. Whether you need documentation to fly or enough dog food to last the holiday, it’s better to have it than to need it in the middle of nowhere.
So, are you ready to take a break with your pet?
*This is a collaborative post*
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