The Dogs Have It
Traveling With Canine Companion Requires Advance Planning & Effort
The Signal - Business Section, August, 2005
The latest travel accessory is your dog. Cute and furry, and your jet-setting best friend; like the bumper sticker says, Dog is My Co-Pilot. But if your pampered pooch intends on making it to the dog park across country, you’ve got to plan your canine-specific travel needs in advance.
From pet-friendly hotels to designer dog travel cases to flight reservations, traveling with your pooch, or in some cases cat, takes a little extra effort. Pets are treated like a royal member of the family, and for many of today’s modern mobile lifestyles, they get to travel to the far corners of the earth with their “parents.” Felines are on the fly as well, but most often it’s the dogs on the go, peeking out of tote bags or carrying cases.
When considering a trip with Rover, the first thing you want to do is contact your veterinarian. Make sure your pet is current with annual shots and is in good health, ready to travel. Perhaps most important is to request from your vet a prescription for doggie downers to calm your four-legged friend during flight. While you’re at it, you’ll probably need some too. Make no doggie bones about it, traveling with your pet takes effort and can be very stressful.
You’ve also got to tell the airlines about your plans. Work with your travel consultant to notify the air carrier of your “live” baggage. Regardless if your pet travel case meets regulation size, you can not simply show up at the gate with your dog in a box and expect to board. Pet policies vary among airlines, but all require advance reservations.
Some of the smaller dog breeds that are so popular among pop stars these days may travel in the passenger cabin with you. No walks down the aisle or trips to the restroom, your drooling little prince must remain contained during the entire flight. Same rules apply for the larger pooches traveling below in the cargo hold. The exception to this is service dogs, and that’s another issue for your travel professional to coordinate.
Like traveling with a small child, flight time with a pet in tow is a traumatic experience for most everyone involved. The commotion, separation anxiety, noise, cabin pressure and unfamiliar people can deliver less than favorable results. So be prepared; bring the tranquilizer and some favorite dog treats.
The upside is that once you arrive at your destination, it’s actually very nice to have your reliable, loyal canine along for the adventure. Just like at home, you can hang out, take walks and know all is well instead of worrying if your neighbor remembered to feed the dog today.
Imagine the cottage industry that has grown from this increased trend to travel with pets. It’s becoming big business to cater to jet-setting dogs and their generously-spending “parents.” From organic baked treats and hand-made toys, to pet-friendly restaurants, specialty events and pampering services, the dogs have it, paws down. Without doubt, today’s world-traveled pet is a surprisingly cosmopolitan creature.
Also, check with your travel professional to locate the nearest dog park to your hotel. For a truly canine experience, try to stay at one of the increasing number of properties throughout the world that offer pet-friendly accommodations and amenities. Just like notifying the airlines about your traveling companion before departure, this is one trip you must plan for in advance.
Lucky dog, not many pets actually get to see the world beyond the backyard fence. He’s cute, doesn’t talk back and is a great companion, so why not take Rover along for the flight? Besides, your dog is the must-have travel accessory this season.
Commentary provided by Eric Maryanov, president and founder of All-Travel.com, the Los Angeles-based travel management company with an office in Valencia. He can be reached at 661.775.7511..
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