Travelling with a Dog

August 27 2009 by Bryson Forbes

dog-on-the-beach-wr.jpgDog ownership is on the rise--one-third of all Canadian households have a dog and, according to Ipsos Reid, we spend a whopping $2 billion a year in dog-related pet expenses.

With the number of short domestic excursions on the rise as well, it makes perfect sense that I have had a number of questions lately about people hitting the road with their dogs.

I am a dog lover currently between canines. My last cocker spaniel/poodle Buster--I just can't bring myself to call him a cockapoo--and I had a number of travelling experiences together. So to help out my fellow canine lovers, here is the skinny on travelling with your dog:

  • Hotels are catering to this growing demand. Make sure when you are researching hotels you check the pet policy. Best Western has more than 1,900 pet-friendly hotels and lots of great tips for pet travel on its Web site.
  • If your trip will take you from Canada into the U.S. (remember this even if you plan a short cut through the States but your end destination is in Canada) you need to ensure your dog has been vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entering the United States. The only exception is for dogs less than 6 weeks old. Go to your vet and get a certificate that has been dated and signed, and it must identify the animal by breed, age, sex, colouring, and any distinguishing marks. Animal tags are not acceptable in place of certificates.
  • It seems the only people paying five cents for plastic grocery store bags these days are dog owners. Make sure you have a stash for the car ride.
  • Don't pack your leash at the bottom of the trunk like I have repeatedly. When you stop to let everyone stretch and lift their legs, it's best for everyone if you don't have to rearrange the entire trunk.
  • Although rare, some dogs do in fact suffer from car sickness. Don't medicate the dog if they show signs of sickness without consulting your vet. Bring your crate and that should help.
Enjoy the summer and the open road with your beloved dog--they make a great travel companion. Another fun stat for all you dog lovers--98 percent of dog owners admit to talking regularly to their dog. I guess the other 2 percent just don't admit it!

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