Pet Travel Tips

The thought of leaving our dogs behind when going on a family vacation doesn’t sit well with a lot of us.  If you have never travelled with your dog, before you plan your own vacation you have to think about theirs – will they be joining you?  If not,  you need to ask a family member / friend, book a pet boarding, dog sitter, and/or dog walking service in advance so your dog is cared for while you are away.

We try to travel with Otto, our miniature schnauzer, as often as possible. New adventures are always welcome in our family! Traveling with your dogs is a serious responsibility – you need to plan accordingly and stock up for before your journey begins.
Aside from the basics of food, water, and shelter you need to plan for:
  • medical care
  • suitable space for exercise
  • creature comforts
  • stress free environment

There are a lot more pieces to the travel puzzle to consider BEFORE you embark. Make a list of what you have and what you need, what you have done and what you need to do to keep fully prepared for your dog’s vacation with you. 

 

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Here are some of Acadia’s top tips for a successful journey

  • Confirm that your destination hotel is pet friendly (must reserve in advance). Have a clear understanding of the pet policy and perhaps check some reviews to be sure pets are truly a welcomed addition.
  • Be sure you have an appropriate size crate suitable for the car and hotel.
  • Have you found some local pet friendly attractions? Dog parks, lakes and beaches (find out dog hours so there is no disappointment --  i.e.  dogs permitted before 10am and after 6pm), dog friendly restaurants (some even have yappy hours), stores and malls, campgrounds and dog friendly events that coincide with your travel dates.
  • Make sure your dog has a collar and tag WITH your phone number on it.
  • Keep your vet’s phone number in your phone. Keep a photo of their current medical records and shots as well.
  • Have a current, clear photo of your dog in case he they get lost and also update chip information with your cell phone when you travel, so you can be reached.

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Car Travel

Make sure their crate or car carrier is in a well ventilated area.


KEEP:

  • an easily accessible stash of their food
  • multiple bottles of water & bowl
  • a leash and collar
  • an antler/pet toy to keep them busy
  • poop bags (obviously!)

Traffic or a car breaking down is never out of the picture! If you can keep your dog as comfortable as possible during travel time, it will be less stressful for all. Our customers tell us they always keep an Acadia Antler in their car as it helps to ward off car sickness – keeping your dog chewing and occupied may be an easy solution for queasy pups.

 

On the road

  • Frequent potty and exercise breaks are essential for longer trips (please be sure to pick up after your dog)
  • Never leave your dog unattended in the car (designate a family member to stay with the dog)
  • Never let a dog have his head sticking out the window, and never let a dog ride in the back of an open truck. Safety first!

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Just a few more pet related details and you will be off before you know it! This probably goes way back to my Girl Scout days, but...Always be prepared!


Dont Forget:

  • Dog Bed
  • Backup Leash/Collar
  • Medicines
  • Shampoo
  • Flea/Tick preventative
  • Brush
  • First Aid Kit
  • Life Vest (if you're going near water)
  • Enough food for the trip (especially important for our puppy friends with sensitive tummies)
  • Local Vet and Groomer contact details (ask your vet and groomer if they could recommend someone where you're traveling)
  • Research any local considerations that may affect your dog (sand fleas, ticks, poisonous plants, hawks or alligators)

At your destination

  • Be considerate and aware of others. Some people may be afraid of dogs.
  • Never assume other dogs are as friendly as yours.
  • Watch kids near your dog, fast moves may scare them.
  • Your dog may become anxious and potentially leash aggressive or over protective in a new environment


This list is not meant to deter you from traveling with your pet, but to prepare you to just be aware so you can adjust what you do, avoid potential issues, and ensure everyone has an enjoyable trip.


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Lastly common sense – do not leave dogs in hot cars,  be aware of hot pavement or sand, new surroundings may be scary, and loud noises like waves crashing and fireworks may really upset your dog.  Your pup will need time to adjust to new experiences, so be sure to pack your patience, awareness and understanding when you are preparing to safely travel with your pets.

 

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Happy trails!

 

About Us:

Acadia Antlers is a NJ based small family business that has its roots deep in the forests of Maine selling the highest quality naturally shed moose antler dog chews for now over ten years and counting!  Our humble beginning started at a roadside stand right on the outskirts of the Acadia National Forest selling to tourists visiting the area as well as locals.  The response to our all natural, long lasting chews has been incredible, and we strive to continue to be the premier source of moose antler dog chews across the country.  Our antlers touch the lives, hearts, health and happiness of not only the pet, but the pet owner as well.  We are proud to be environmentally responsible – the recovery and use of our sheds and drops minimize our carbon footprint, while enabling us to provide our pets will an all natural,  green product.  Visit our website, acadiaantlers.com and follow us on Instagram and Facebook – to continue to receive more  great pet information, please sign up for our newsletter.

Welcome to our family – Happy chewing!

 

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