Tips For Simple Holiday Travel With Your Pug

Posted by Mandi on Sep 30th 2019

Going somewhere for the holidays and bringing your pug with you? Traveling with your dog can be difficult sometimes, but not if you follow these tips!

1. Travel safely

If you're going to be in the car for a while, make sure your pug is safe. You can get a small seat belt for your dog, and attach it to the seat belt in your car. The dog seat belt then attaches to your dog's harness. This ensures that he will remain in his seat for the whole trip. And, if there happens to be an accident or you stop short for some reason, he won't get injured. This little seat belt costs around $10 and can potentially save your dog's life.

If you're traveling by train or bus, make sure you have a carry-on bag that your pug will fit inside. Dogs can get overwhelmed in crowds and if he can crawl inside the bag and feel safe, the journey will be less stressful for him.

2. Traveling on an airplane

Some airlines make special accommodations for small dogs. Traveling on an airplane is not ideal for every dog, and you should think carefully before making this decision. If you do decide to get on a flight with your pug, make sure you have a carry-on bag to keep him in and a portable water bowl. You should also have some food handy if it's going to be a long flight.

You may be able to register your dog as an emotional support animal. Most airlines allow emotional support animals on flights, so it will be easy for you to bring your pug along with you. Every state differs with registration proceedings, but usually a doctor will write a statement for you to be able to show an airline. You should carry the statement with you or have it on your phone in case anyone asks for proof that your dog is an emotional support animal.

You should never allow airlines to put your dog on the lower level of the plane. There have been terrible instances when dogs have been taken from their owners and stowed with luggage, resulting in their death. You should always have your dog next to you on the plane, and if the airline doesn't allow it, you may have to leave your pug home with a dog sitter. It's not worth the risk.

3. Find dog-friendly accommodations

Nowadays, there are plenty of hotels that allow pets. You might have to spend a little more money, but it's totally worth it. You can search specifically online for hotels that allow pets and you can give them a call if you have any questions.

Airbnb also lists homes that are pet-friendly, and the rates are great. The odds of finding a place with everything you want is higher through apps like Airbnb, because the spaces are listed by individuals and aren't part of a hotel corporation. You can message your host through the app as well to ensure that bringing your pug with you is okay.

4. Don't forget the essentials

Packing for a trip is easy when you're the only one traveling, but now you have to pack for your pug. Don't forget everything that he needs in his daily life. Bring food, treats, toys, his bed, his leash, and even some grooming tools if you're going to be away for a while. If your dog happens to take any medication, make sure you bring that along as well.

5. Have fun!

Your pug is going to be able to explore some new surroundings on your trip, so have some fun with him! Go for walks, check out some local parks and walking paths, and include him in the family celebration. You are your dog's best friend, and he is going to be so happy to go on a trip with you.