This is what you should think about when taking your dog on vacation

If you're slightly obsessed with your dog like I am, you'll surely have a hard time leaving your sweet four-legged friend at home. And for this reason, I often choose to take my Maltipoo with me on trips. By that, I don't mean a ten-hour flight to Asia, but rather a short trip close to home. To make such a vacation as relaxed as possible for both you and your dog, you'll need to make some preparations in advance. Not sure what to think about? No worries, below you'll find all the tips.

1. Choose a dog-friendly destination
After all, it's their vacation too, so you'll need to consider your dog. Is the travel time not too long? Is the location suitable? Is it not too hot? Are there enough dog-friendly beaches? And is our four-legged friend even allowed in the hotel?

2. Visit the groomer
There's a good chance you'll be going on vacation to a warm country this summer. Keep in mind that your furry family member should visit the groomer shortly before departure for a fresh summer cut. It may not look particularly nice, such a short haircut, but at least you're doing your dog a big favor.

3. Make a packing checklist

There are a few things you absolutely must not forget:
– Your dog's favorite toys
– A dog leash for the car (even mandatory in some countries)
– A water bottle and a food bowl
– A tag on the collar with your contact information (very important)
– A pet passport including vaccination record and health declaration
– A tick remover
– Enough dog poop bags (a must)
– A dog brush and shampoo
– A first aid kit for your dog (you never know)

4. Check the import requirements
Every country has its own dog policy, and you'll need to take that into account. For example, a European passport, a rabies shot, and a chip are mandatory throughout Europe. But in some countries, the rules are even stricter. Risky dogs like a pit bull or bulldog are not welcome everywhere.

5. Have your dog checked beforehand
It's better to be safe than sorry by visiting the vet for a check-up beforehand. It would be unfortunate if your dog ends up with a limp or infection. And while you're there: have the chip checked immediately. Sometimes the data is not up to date, the chip is inactive, or it has even moved. Then the chip is no longer found in the neck and has shifted somewhere else, making it impossible for the vet to trace the chip. So pay attention.

6. Find a local vet
If something urgent happens with your dog (let's hope not), it's nice to know in advance where to go. So check beforehand where the vet is located nearby. It saves you a lot of stress if something actually happens.

Source: roefie.nl