Traveling During The Holidays? Make The Right Decision For Your Dog

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For first time pet owners who are getting ready to make a big trip this holiday season, decisions on what to do with your dog during the time you'll be gone can be difficult. For those traveling shorter distances via car, bringing alone your canine friend may be simple. Similarly, those who will be gone for only the day have little to worry about when leaving their dog at home. For those who are planning longer trips involving airfare, deciding where your pup should go can become incredibly harder to determine. If you are dealing with a pet for the first time in the midst of a travel weary season, continue reading to learn more about what the pros and cons of your options entail-- and along the way finally determine what is the right decision for your dog:

Taking Your Pet into the Sky

If you're considering taking your dog into the air to accompany you at your final destination, there are many different things you should be aware of in regards to the airlines. Since it's obvious that you can't buy your dog a seat on the plane as you might another family member, many individuals are confused at how taking pets on a plane actually works. Depending on the size and breed of your dog, there are a few different options available to you:

• Traditionally you can check your pet as you would check items of your luggage. Of course, living animals inside their riding crates will be treated with much more care than the bag carrying your clothes would-- but your pet will be stored in the luggage compartment, out of your view. While there are very few issues ever encountered with this system, some caution that your pet's kennel could tip over during the flight (causing injury).
• Carrying your dog on the plane is permitted on certain airlines, as long as you own a small dog that can fit (and will remain within) a carry on sized container for the entirety of the flight. Since each airline has different rules and regulations, be sure to shop around before booking your flight to insure that the conditions will work for your situation.

Leaving Your Pet on the Ground

Of course, you can choose to leave your pet at home-- which could be an easier option depending on the details of your pet and resources available to you. Hiring a friend or family member (or finding a reputable person to hire online before the trip) to take care of the dog's daily needs will insure that he stays happy at home during your entire vacation.

If hiring someone to come to your home is not an option, take a look at dog boarding facilities like Orange Grove Animal Hospital near your home. Since certain kennels book far in advance and range in prices, it will benefit you greatly to research locations as soon as possible to find the best place for your pet to receive the greatest care.

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30 December 2014