You’re trying to plan a vacation, but you can’t fathom leaving your furry best friend behind. They’re a big part of your life, so it only makes sense that you want to bring them with you for the adventure.
However, bringing your pet with you on vacation comes with its own set of challenges that can be difficult to navigate. Even though there are some obstacles you’ll encounter along the way, that doesn’t mean you need to ditch your furry friend. Instead, keep reading for a few tips to help make the trip easier as you bring your pet on vacation.
Bring Some Toys to keep them Occupied
If you’re going on vacation, it’s a likely possibility that there will be times when you’re not with your pet. For example, if you want to go out to a fancy restaurant where pets aren’t allowed. On the other hand, if you want to bring your cat, it’s less common to have your feline friend at a patio eatery.
So, if you’re going to be ditching your kitten back at your camper or rental space, then it’s a great idea to buy them something like a cardboard cat house to keep them busy. These cat houses are made out of cardboard, and they feature a scratch pad that they can dig their claws into. Not to mention, they come in a variety of styles like the cardboard cat condo, cardboard cat castle, and even a pirate ship. Overall, it’s a great product to pack so that your cat is preoccupied during the trip. If you have a dog, make sure to bring some chew toys.
Choose a Location that Works for you and your Animal
Arguably one of the most important things to consider before booking a trip with your pet is the location. In all honesty, there’s no compelling reason to bring your pup to a crowded city where they can’t roam around much (unless they’re an emotional support or service animal).
If you plan on bringing your pup with you, then instead of a city vacation, think about heading to a more remote location that offers some room to roam! An example of this might be heading out on the trails and enjoying scenic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. A great place near the Smoky Mountains is Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Be sure to check out this list of where to stay in Gatlinburg TN so you can find a place that allows pets and whatever accommodations you may need.
As a side note, always make sure to check with the hotel, resort, or Airbnb to ensure that they know you’re bringing your pet. This way, any fees that need to be paid are well communicated.
Be Sure to have their Basic Needs Met
A final tip that you must remember when bringing your pet on vacation is to pack them a bag. While this might sound a little dramatic, making sure to pack all of their things is almost more important than your own. It can be hard to find their specific pet food or treats at any store, so bring enough food and water that lasts for the duration of your trip. In addition, make sure to bring portable food and water bowls, too.
Finally, if your pet takes any medication or needs anxiety medication for travel, this is also necessary. If you’re traveling with a pup, you’ll need waste bags to clean up after they go potty outdoors. For cats, a portable litter box is a wise investment. By checking off all of your pet’s needed items, you’re sure to be prepared for the trip of a lifetime.