Taking your dog on holiday is becoming increasingly popular. A joyful and safe vacation for both two-legged and four-legged friends requires planning, research and inspiration. That is why we have made a list with the ten best tips for those who want to go on holiday with a dog this summer.
10 tips for those who want to go on holiday with a dog:
Plan ahead
Prepare for your holiday together by browsing through city parks, seaside resorts, restaurants, cafes and campsites where dogs are welcome.
Choose a dog-friendly destination
A relaxing week at the campsite or summer spot with the whole family is a real treat for the dog! Keep your dog in mind when planning your stops so that the whole family has a wonderful holiday.
Travel safely
In the car and camper, the dog must be safe, in a special car cage or fastened with a dog seat belt. With a non-spill tray, with a rim that prevents the water from splashing out even if the car journey involves a bumpy country road, the dog can drink whenever it wants during the journey. Take regular breaks and let the dog stretch its legs!
Beware of heat
Dogs overheat quickly. A dog should never be left alone in a car during the summer. Please note that caravans and mobile homes can quickly become very hot. And don't forget to help the dog top up with fluids!
Loaded with liquid
In the summer, some dogs may have trouble getting enough fluids. Then wet food is an extra good option. When you're on a field trip, a food bowl that you can close works best. A tip for really hot summer days is to cut the pate into small pieces and freeze. Then grab it when the dog needs extra liquid and coolness.
Relax
Really go on vacation. Replace your workspace or cramped home office with open spaces, forests and miles of beaches. Disconnect from work email and mobile and take the dog for short walks or longer adventures.
Activate the dog
Bored dogs bark more and are generally restless. Balance exercises, swimming training, search games or classical retrieval are wonderful in the summer! Remember that heat makes the dog both tired and hungry for shade. It is therefore wise to take the run, the long walk or the bicycle bend in the morning or in the evening.
Take a dog-friendly dive
Does the dog also want to cool off? Of course there will be a dive! It's also a perfect way to cool down before the ride. There are lists of beach resorts that allow dogs on the internet. Also take a look at what it looks like when you are swimming with algae as this can be harmful to the dog. Floating toys and maybe even a life jacket are useful to carry in your swim bag. Also remember to dry the dog afterwards to prevent moisture eczema.
If the accident occurs
While traveling, it is even more difficult for stray dogs to find their way back. Buy a dog tag that has the dog's name and your phone number on it. This makes it easier for the dog to be returned. It is also a good idea to save the phone number and address of the local vet. It doesn't take many seconds, but can save the life of a dog that has been in a serious accident.
Good away or best home?
Sometimes a dog-friendly holiday is not possible. Could your dog feel better at home? Then it is more peaceful to let your dog stay with family, friends or at a dog boarding house.