I’ve always loved the idea of taking my dog away on vacation, but found it pretty daunting. My seven-month-old puppy is in a great routine at home, and I worried that taking him away would be full of stress.
However, I finally took the plunge this month and booked a little trip away, just one night in a cosy lodge to test the waters – and it was far better than I’d imagined. If you’re in the same boat, here are my tips for an enjoyable trip.
My tips for taking your puppy away
1. Take their belongings
My first tip is to take your dog’s belongings from home, like their bed, toys and blankets.
The key to a smooth trip is making your pooch feel as comfortable as possible, as going away from home can be a scary experience for them.
All of these items will smell like home, helping your furry friend to feel safe and secure while exploring a new environment, and bringing a sense of familiarity to a new place.
2. Follow the same routine
Next up, I found that following the same routine as you would at home helped too.
For example, feeding them at the same time you usually would, putting them to sleep in the same bed and using the same food and water bowls.
If dogs are used to the same things happening at the same time each day, they can get worried by change, Dog Welfare Charity Dogs Trust says. Keeping the same routine will reduce anxiety.
3. Get them used to the car
Since the day I brought my puppy home, I made getting him used to long car journeys a priority, and that certainly helped make it a stress-free trip from the start.
We had to drive more than two hours away on busy motorways and he slept or sat quietly for the entire journey.
The American Kennel Club recommends getting your dog used to the car by letting them sit in it with you without leaving the driveway, and then going for short rides. Reward them for sitting quietly in the car and make it a positive experience.
4. Comfort and reassurance
Another tip for a successful night away is to give your pooch lots of comfort and reassurance.
Going to a new environment is really scary for them, so give lots of love and extra attention to let them know they are safe.
Vacations mean lots of change and new experiences for your dog so it’s important to take time to help them settle in and feel secure, and don’t get angry if they seem unsettled, UK-based animal charity RSPCA explains.
5. Show them where to toilet
Often, the fear of your dog toileting in someone else’s property is one of the most daunting parts of going away.
When you first get to the place you are staying, be sure to show them where to potty to avoid any unwanted accidents or confusion.
When travelling to your destination, whether it’s by car, train, bus or other transport, ensure to stop frequently for regular toilet breaks too.
6. Remember to have fun
Finally, remember it’s a vacation and you’re supposed to have fun! It’s a great opportunity for you to enjoy some quality time together.
If your pooch struggles to settle overnight or barks a little more than they usually would, it’s really not the end of the world.
Dogs pick up on their owners’ emotions too. So, if you’re stressed and anxious, your dog probably will be too. Relax, be calm and enjoy your time away.
