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People with pets who wanted to go on vacation used to be in a bind. There weren't many options for pets on the road -- or in the hotel.
Usually, you had to find someone to come over and feed your pet, take your pets to stay at their house ... or you could stay home.
And don't laugh, but plenty of older folks have done just that. Lots of Baby Boomers, especially those whose kids have moved out, have furry friends that are more like family.
These days, fortunately, traveling with pets in tow is easier to pull off. Plenty of business and travel websites put out the welcome mat for pets. Trails for biking, hiking and walking are pet-friendly. Some outdoor cafes will make room for you dog.
If you plan things right, your pet won't have to stay behind in the hotel room or the car, staring out the window.
In some large cities some public transit will allow your pet to come along for the ride. A walking tour can be ideal for you and your dog, now that some tour companies have opened the door to pets.
River and harbor cruises may welcome your dog. Some of the ferries in New York will let your pet join you onboard.
According to USAtravelwithus.com, 70 percent of all American homes contain pets, and their care is a high priority. Your family may think you're nuts wanting to take your dog on your trip but even if you're nuts, you're not the only one.
When pet owners head out on a trip, 70 percent of their pets have accompanied them at least once. Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, travel more than any other age group, and own more pets.
Many businesses are tuned in to the fact that Baby Boomers are big business and that includes Boomers traveling with pets. It's a practical decision on their part to be accommodating to these furry guests and their humans.
Be sure, when you make your reservations, that the hotel or motel allows pets. Once you know your pet is welcome, you can nail down your plan as to how to get them there.
A small pet can be put in a pet carrier to go on a plane. Going by car is probably the more pet-friendly mode of transportation.
After you've got a place to stay that is sympatico to you and your four-legged babies, and you know you have the means to get them there, you can pack their food.
Bring sturdy food and water bowls, and keep a bottle of water and snacks on hand. If you get up in the morning and can put out your pet's breakfast first thing, you will both be happy.
If your pet has favorite toys, blankets or cushions, bring them along. Everybody likes some familiarity in a new place and pets are no exception.
Sources:
Should You Take Your Pet On Your Vacation?.Able-mart.com. Retrieved May 29, 2012.
http://www.able-mart.com/baby-boomers/should-you-take-your-pet-on-your-v...
Pets on Vacation! USAtravelwithus.com. Retrieved May 29, 2012.
http://usatravelwithus.com/2012/04/pets-go
Pet-friendly vacation ideas. 50plus.com. Retrieved May 29, 2012.
http://www.50plus.com/retirement-living/pet-friendly-vacation-ideas/106201
Visit Jody's website and blog at http://www.ncubator.ca and http://ncubator.ca/blogger
Reviewed on May 29, 2012
by Maryann Gromisch, RN
Add a Comment1 Comments
As a pet owner, I am so glad traveling with them is getting easier. It used to be a very difficult decision regarding leaving our dog. Now we are able to bring her with us on occasion. Makes the kids very happy.
Marielaina Perrone DDS
October 16, 2012 - 9:02amHenderson Dental Implants
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