Hi y’all,

Riley and I have been having fun getting ready for Christmas! Our tree is all decorated and holiday decorations are out. ???

And yes, Riley believes in Santa Paws ……… ??

If you are traveling with your 4-legged furry BFF for the holidays be sure he is healthy and can travel. Let your vet know how you will be traveling, by plane, train or automobile and how long the commute will be. They can provide you a clean bill of health and even provide medication or treatment to prevent motion sickness and ease anxiety.

Before you go, make sure all microchip information and all vaccinations are up to date.

Be sure to take all vaccinations paperwork/tags, extra leashes, poop bags, special food/snacks, medications, hair and tooth-brush, sweaters, jackets, baby wipes for his paws blankets, bedding and of course some play toys to make him feel at home!

If you are taking a road trip, be sure to check that hotel accommodations are pet-friendly. Be sure to have water and a way to provide it to him while on the road and don’t forget, he will need to take a potty break and stretch his legs from time to time. It’s probably best not to feed him a big meal before the trip, he can have a few dog bones/treats during your rest breaks.

If you are traveling by plane, some airlines have restrictions on types of breeds and weight restrictions. Be sure you know exactly what paperwork will be needed before you check in. Do you have the proper crate that will fit properly in the area beneath the seat in front of you. Some breeds are not good candidates for air travel such as pugs and bull dogs due to oxygen limitations.  Check with your airlines regarding rules for dogs flying in the cargo area and be aware of the possible dangers associated with excessive heat or cold temperatures, poor ventilation and simply rough handling and turbulence. (Would you want to be in the cargo area)

Currently Amtrak does not allow pets, only service dogs. Depending on where you live, there may be some local trains that allow small pets in carriers.

Are you taking your 4-legged BFF to a relative or friends home .. …… This can be a very sensitive topic ….. take him or board him …..

I have done both ….. I think what is the most important thing to do if he is traveling with you is to be considerate.

• Do  they have any pets.
• Remember not all dogs or cats get along.
• You may need to slowly introduce them to each other and make some time to have them play together, outside if you can, or a play area around the family.
• It’s important to make him comfortable, he just traveled and now is introduced to a whole new environment.
• Not all people are dog lovers ….. be considerate.
• Be sure to pick up and clean up after him.
• Your dog will check everything out ….. it’s normal. Be sure you do not allow him to misbehave …. be considerate.
• Do they allow pets on the furniture ….. be considerate.

Having him with you during the holidays can be so much fun. Planning, organizing and being considerate will ensure you and your 4-legged BFF will have a Very Merry Christmas while visiting family or friends.

Riley and I wish you safe travels. If you have any tips or suggestions that have worked for you while traveling together, please share them.

We send you love and kindness and we’d love to hear from y’all, Woof Woof. ??