Taking dogs on vacation can typically go one of two ways.
Outcome #1: Enjoyable for everyone (dog included), fun, and relaxing
Outcome #2: Stressful for everyone (dog included), unpleasant, and miserable
While you can of course get bits and pieces of both outcomes, this article will help make your vacation with your dog full of enjoyment, fun, and even relaxing memories!
I’ve taken my dogs across the country multiple times, to a variety of places, and in a variety of seasons. Hopefully, my experience will make your next vacation with your pup easier, stress-free, and fun for everyone!
Here is what we’ll cover in this episode
-3 quick tips for stress-free dog vacations
-5 must-pack items
-Full dog vacation packing list
Of course, there are SO many other things you may need to pack. These five items are must-haves for me and my pups, and will hopefully help you too!
I would never leave home for a dog vacation without the following items ⬇️
1. Vaccination information and other health documents
2. Hand vacuum
3. Dog shampoo, brush & towels (even if you don’t think you’ll need it)
4. Dog GPS tracker
5. High-value treats
Here is a full dog vacation packing list ⬇️
Long lead
Chuck-it (if your dog loves fetch)
Long-lasting chews
Medications/prescriptions
Paw balm
Paper towels (don’t skip this!)
Enzymatic cleaner
Food bowl
Water bowl (a travel one is great, too)
Food (I always bring enough for at least one extra day)
Bed or blanket
Harness
Leash
Poop bags (LOTS)
Poop bag holder
Health documents
Flea/tick treatment (depending on location)
Up to date ID tags
GPS tracker
Dog first aid kit
Toys and balls for play
Towels
Paper towels
Mud Buster or other paw cleaner
Crate/folding crate
Hand vacuum (especially if your dog sheds)
Dog shampoo
Car safety restraint
Brush
Small training treats
While I may have missed some items (let me know in the comments), this dog vacation packing list will help you be prepared for anything!
Taking dogs on vacation can (and should) be an enjoyable experience! If you implement these tips and pack the must-have items, it will be much more pleasant and less stressful.
Reminder, here are three quick vacation tips.
1. Let your dog acclimate
2. Research dog-friendliness of hotel, restaurants, hikes, etc.
3. Plan for the worst while expecting the best
And of course, these are the five things I won’t leave on a dog vacation without!
1. Vaccination information and other health documents
2. Hand vacuum
3. Dog shampoo, brush & towels (even if you don’t think you’ll need it)
4. Dog GPS tracker
5. High-value treats
What’s your favorite story of taking dogs on vacation? Or your dream dog vacation?
Oh, and don’t forget to check out my favorite dog shampoo bar, Sudsy, here: https://pfrd.site/getsudsy
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