Thankfully, your friends at Happy Paws Upstate already did all that thinking for you. We proudly present our guide for traveling with pets, from planning to packing and everything in between. Check it out below!

Choose the Right Accommodations

The obvious step one: make sure wherever you're staying is pet-friendly!

It doesn't matter if you're setting up at a camp site, staying at a hotel, or renting an Airbnb, you want to double-check and triple-check that pets are allowed or you risk learning a very hard lesson!

Once you've established that your pet is more than welcome, it's prudent to also check out reviews written by other pet parents, inquire about any restrictions, and find out if there are additional fees for your furry plus-one.

Pit Stop at the Vet

Now that you have your accommodations squared away, you'll want to make a pit stop at one of your pet's least favorite places: the vet.

It's not only a good idea to get that clean bill of health before hitting the road or boarding a plane, in some cases it's required. Most airlines require proof of current vaccination, especially for rabies, before granting permission to travel. If you're staying at a pet-friendly hotel, you may be required to present that proof to them as well.

Even if you're not heading out on your vacay for several weeks or months, schedule that visit as soon as possible to ensure you can be seen before the start of your trip. If your fur baby is a bit of a Nervous Nelly, this could be a good time to broach the topic with their veterinarian and see if calming aids may help with their anxiety.

Don't forget to ask them for a copy of those health records on your way out too so you can present them to whomever will need to see them along your journey.

Packing Essentials: Pet Travel Checklist

You may find a charming pet retailer or boutique while on vacation, but it's nice to have all the essentials packed and ready on day one too. Here are a few things you'll want to have with you or grab along the way:

• Food, treats, and portable water bowls
• Leashes, harnesses, and waste bags
• Favorite toys or blankets for comfort
• Medications and first-aid supplies
• Crate or travel carrier (label it with your contact info)

Remember, you may be peeved if you forget to bring something for yourself, but your pet may really struggle if they don't have familiar, comforting items that they're accustomed to. Set yourself up for success by grabbing everything that'll make them happy before you head out the door.

Road Trip Ready: Safety First

There's something romantic about heading out on the open road, cracking the windows, and letting your pup just take it all in. We love that for them, but don't forget to be safe about it. As they say, safety first!

You'll want to grab a pet seatbelt harness to ensure they're locked and secure. That means your bold buddy won't get any ideas about leaping out of the window, and it may help keep them safe in the event of a collision too.

It's also important to remember that the summer months do get scorching. If you can't bring your dog into a store or other business you're stopping at, keep the car on and that AC running with someone inside supervising the dog and vehicle. Temperatures reach deadly levels in minutes when it's hot out, so it's very important you never leave them alone in a parked car with no climate control.

Flying with Pets: Know the Rules

Taking a plane means you're going to need more preparation than just getting in the car and starting to drive. Most airlines have specific policies regarding pets, including carrier requirements and fees.

Smaller pets may get the privilege of hanging out in the cabin with you. Bigger pets, unfortunately, must travel in cargo. Make sure the airline you're choosing has a safe, temperature-controlled cargo area if this is the case. And, if possible, choose a direct flight to minimize the stress on your special fur baby.

You may also consider practicing short trips before the big day to help them get used to travel. A little bit of exposure before you take to the sky can go a long way in making sure the experience is as stress-free as possible.

When Traveling Isn't the Best Option

We love to bring our pets anywhere and everywhere they're permitted. After all, they're a beloved part of our families, as we're sure they're a big part of your family too. But, for that same reason, it's important to recognize that some pets just aren't cut out for big trips. For some pets, it's just too much.

If your pet would prefer a staycation while you're out on vacation, don't sweat it; your pals at Happy Paws Upstate have you covered. We offer pet sitting tailored specifically to your pet's personality and needs. While you relax on your getaway, your pet will be enjoying their own version of vacation—complete with belly rubs, enrichment, and plenty of love.