As the summer months heat up, so do many dog owners' travel plans. Maybe this year you're tired of wondering what Fido is doing without you while you sip a drink on the beach or take a sunset hike in the mountains. If you want to take your furry friend along this summer, there are plenty of dog-friendly vacations you could embark (pun definitely intended) on.
Vacationing With Your Dog
You don't have to leave your pup behind to get some much-needed R&R. Here are the best vacations for dog owners.
- Stay urban: If you're looking to adventure in a concrete jungle this year, book your stay at a dog-friendly hotel. Many hotels allow smaller dogs in your room with a fee, but you should always check before you book. There are some hotel chains—such as Kimpton Hotels and Loews—that cater to dog owners with dog beds, snacks, and no extra fees.
- Adventure in the great outdoors: Camping is one of the most dog-friendly summer vacations you could take. With the fresh mountain air, the hiking trails, the snuggling in a tent all night, camping is a great chance for you and the family to spend some time with your dog. Be sure to pack along dog-safe bug spray and a first aid kit, and check your pup for ticks and other creepy crawlies every night of your trip.
- Hit the beach: What dog doesn't love splashing in the waves and chasing a frisbee through the sand? Choose a sunny destination such as southern California, the Florida coastline, or Mexico, and pack your sunscreen.
- Take a cruise: Did you know there are cruise lines that allow dogs? That's right; you don't have to leave your pet next time you take a cruise if you book with a cruise line that welcomes both two-legged and four-legged passengers. Some lines even provide pet day care for the trip, giving you the opportunity to bring your companion along but enjoy the human-only activities just as easily.
- Go to dog camp: Everyone has fun memories of attending summer camp—why not make some of those memories this year with your dog? There are camps across the U.S. designed for dog owners and their best friends. Your dog will get a chance to run around and interact with other dogs while you attend events that teach you about training and interacting with your pup. Do some research to find a dog camp near you this summer.
- Inside of a dog… There's a famous quote by Groucho Marx that goes, "Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read." Now you can test out Groucho's theory by staying inside a dog at the Dog Bark Park Inn—a hotel shaped like a dog in Cottonwood, Idaho. This charming dog-themed inn is shaped like a beagle and nestled in rolling Idaho hills—and, of course, it's pet-friendly!
- Do some wine tasting: Famous northern California wine country isn't only for vino-lovers; it's also for dog-lovers. Over 50 wineries in the area allow dogs to accompany their owners on tours and wine tastings. Sonoma, California is a fantastic area to explore on foot with your pup while on vacation.
There are plenty of fun vacations you can take with your dog in tow. But if Rover would be happier at home, give us a call to book him a plush doggie bed at our pet lodge.
