Summer time is vacation time for the whole family.  That includes the family dog!

No need to leave them behind. With these tips bring furry family members so everyone can have fun this summer.

1. Check with your vet to make sure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has flea & tick protection with a collar or pills/shots
2. Bring along any meds your dog is on. Avoid the need to seek-out a vet while on the road for refills or forgotten prescriptions. Keep your dog on schedule, with no delays. Pack meds the day before, along with your items you want to ensure are in the bag and ready to go.
3. Purchase things to keep your dog healthy along the trip:  water and food bowls.  Make sure you have enough of his/her regular food and treats. No new food while on vacation.
4. Feed your dog at least two – three hours before leaving home. Motion sickness is no fun for anyone. Short or long trips, avoid queasiness and a messy car.
5. Purchase a crate that is easy to pack, load and set up. Most vacation accommodations will require dogs stay in a crate when left alone. Crates are also the safest way to transport your dog(s).
6. Double-check your dog’s ID tags. Do you have all of the appropriate contact information? Include your telephone number. Your contact information is the number one way your dog can be returned quickly. Also, consider a micro-chip. And, always have a photo of your dog. Keep a photo on your smart phone, but also have a snapshot available for quick sharing and posting if needed.
7. Check in advance with your lodging to make sure they are pet friendly. Many accommodations allow pets and have special amenities for them. Yummy dog meals made with lamb and chicken; or great homemade treats.
8. Accommodations may require a health certificate indicating vaccination records and requiring pets have recent applications of tick and flea ointment.
9. Most accommodations will have a weight limit for dogs. Twenty-five pounds maybe the max. Ask ahead of time to avoid disappointments. Most places will adhere to weight restrictions as well as age.
10. Visit bringfido.com for a listing of pet-friendly accommodations all around the world. They also list pet services from grooming to dog walkers. They even have a list of veterinary clinics. And, if you’re flying they have tips and travel regulations listed too.
11. Work on commands – new ones and refresh the old ones. A well-behaved dog is a welcomed dog. Keep everyone happy with good doggy manners.
12. If you are flying, taking the train or cruising – check for health certification requirements imposed by the company
13. Research dog parks in the city you are visiting. Most cities will have parks listed along with regulations for visiting.
14. Going to the beach can be a great experience for the whole family. There is no better fun than playing along the shore with your best buddy. Double check ahead of time for pet-friendly beaches. Most beaches have patrols to enforce policies and regulations.
15. Clean-up and pick-up after your dog. Responsible owners help keep parks, hotels and beaches pet-friendly. When asked, hotels and vacation rental owners stated poor pet manners as the number one reason for discontinuing their pet-friendly services.
16. Camp grounds are a great vacation choice for dog owners. Hike, bike and run the nature trails – fun for everyone.
17. Bring along a favorite toy or a new toy for play-time. Balls are always a favorite and can be especially fun on the beach
18. Dogs love familiarity – don’t forget their favorite bed or blanket. Pack their leash while you’re at it!
19. While on vacation it can become necessary to board your dog. Research kennels in your vacation area ahead of time. Check-out reviews and comments to ensure you are choosing the best place to leave your pet.
20. A visit to the pet store is fun for your dog. Take a walk through the local pet store, pick up a new toy and allow your dog to meet friends and enjoy new smells.