Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude. What better way to celebrate than with your furry best friend by your side? Travel with your dog can make holiday journeys more enjoyable, but it does come with extra considerations. Here’s how to ensure a tail-wagging holiday experience for you and your pup!
Paws for Thought: Pre-Travel Prep
Before hitting the road, ensure your dog is as travel-ready as you are. A visit to K9 Wonderland for a grooming session will have your pooch looking and feeling their best for the family photos!
Meanwhile, be sure to properly prep with the following steps:
- Update vaccinations
- Pack favorite toys
- Confirm pet-friendly accommodations
- Schedule grooming appointment
- Prepare an emergency kit
- Check weather forecast
- Plan exercise breaks
- Organize travel documents
Safety Snuggles: Secure Your Pup
Safety is non-negotiable for both you and your pup. Keep your dog secured in a well-ventilated crate or harness during the drive. Make your pup feel safe and secure during a car or plane ride with the following tips:
- Bring a well-ventilated, comfortable carrier or crate that provides enough space for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down.
- Introduce your dog to the carrier gradually, using positive reinforcement to create a positive association with the space.
- Secure the carrier with a seatbelt in the car or check airline requirements for plane travel to ensure compliance with their specific regulations.
- Bring a familiar blanket or piece of your clothing to place in the carrier, which can help comfort your dog with familiar scents.
- Maintain a calm demeanor, as dogs can pick up on their owner’s anxiety, potentially increasing their stress levels.
- Avoid feeding your dog right before traveling to prevent motion sickness; instead, feed them a few hours prior.
- Ensure your dog has a comfortable collar with up-to-date identification tags in case they get lost during the journey
Of course, for those who need a safe space for their dog to stay while they travel, K9 Wonderland offers top-tier dog boarding services.
Pit Stop Pooch: Regular Breaks
Frequent stops are a must for stretching paws and sniffing new scents. When you can’t take your dog with you, K9 Wonderland’s doggy daycare or boarding is the perfect place for your dog to play and relax while you’re on the go.
Dine and Dash: Pack for Your Pup
Remember to pack your dog’s favorite food, water, bowl, and treats. A well-fed dog is a happy traveler!
Try some of these tasty snacks to pack for your pup on the road:
- Homemade Peanut Butter Pumpkin Balls: Mix some canned pumpkin with peanut butter, oats, and your dog’s favorite treats and roll them into easy-to-carry balls.
- Dried Sweet Potato Chews: These are a great source of fiber and vitamins and are less messy than fresh ones.
- Freeze-dried Meat Treats: Lightweight and packed with protein, these treats won’t spoil without refrigeration.
- Crunchy Carrot Sticks: Perfect for a quick, hydrating snack that also helps clean your dog’s teeth.
- Dog-Friendly Energy Bars: Look for brands that make energy or granola bars specifically for dogs, which can provide a quick nutrient boost during long stretches of travel.
Travel with Your Dog: Is Boarding a Better Option?
Travel with your dog can be boatloads (or carloads, or plane loads) of fun. However, travel with a dog is also a lot of work. Naturally, you might wonder if dog boarding or another service can help improve your experience. Consider the following suggestions before taking off on your Thanksgiving trip.
Serene Staycation: The Comforts of Boarding
Boarding your dog at a reputable facility like K9 Wonderland ensures they have a secure and loving environment while you’re away. With amenities that cater to their every need, your dog can enjoy their own holiday of fun and relaxation.
If you choose to trust K9 Wonderland with dog boarding, your pup can experience the following:
- Indoor and Outdoor Play: A spacious indoor and outdoor play area for plenty of exercise and fun.
- Socialization and Playtime: Your dog will enjoy ample playtime and socialization, which is essential for their happiness and well-being.
- 24/er the hour.
- Luxury Accommodations: Luxury kennel options are available for those wanting to give their dog a more indulgent stay.
- Relaxing Ambiance: The standard kennels come with relaxing dog music at night to soothe your pet.
- Complimentary Bath: Your dog will receive a complimentary bath on the second night of their stay.
- TV and Music: Luxury kennels offer relaxing music or TV to keep your dog entertained in a home-like environment.
- Comfortable Bedding: In luxury kennels, a pillow, bed, and blanket are included to ensure your dog’s comfort.
- Live Camera Feed: You can keep an eye on your furry friend with a live camera feed to see how they’re doing anytime.
- Royal Suite Experience: The ultimate luxurious stay with Dog TV, an ottoman for window-watching, and a comfortable dog bed7 Care: Around-the-clock care ensures that your pup is always attended to, no matter the time of day.
Play While You’re Away: Daycare Delights
If the thought of leaving your dog alone while you explore the sights seems unfair, consider doggy daycare. K9 Wonderland’s daycare service provides socialization and playtime, keeping your pup engaged and happy until you return.
Tailored Care: Individual Attention
Boarding isn’t just about a place to stay; it’s about personalized care. K9 Wonderland’s experienced staff will ensure your dog’s routine is maintained, from feeding to playtime to snuggles, making them feel right at home.
Pamper Your Pooch: Grooming Galore
Why not treat your dog to a grooming session? They can be pampered with a bath, nail trim, and fur styling at K9 Wonderland, ensuring they’re fresh and fluffy for your return.
Safe and Sound: No Travel Stress
Travel can be stressful for pets, but boarding eliminates the anxiety associated with long car rides or flights. Your dog can avoid the hustle and bustle of travel and instead bask in the calm environment of K9 Wonderland.
Convenient Commutes: Shuttle Services
Even if you’re nearby, you might not have the time to drop off and pick up your pet. K9 Wonderland’s shuttle bus service adds convenience to your travel plans by taking care of your dog’s transportation. You can also call us to possibly arrange a trip for us to pick up your pup when you head to the airport!
No Time to Travel with Your Dog? Choose Boarding at K9 Wonderland
Make your holiday travels stress-free and treat your dog to a vacation of their own at K9 Wonderland. With luxurious boarding options, 24/7 care, and a live camera feed to check in on your pup, you can relax knowing they’re in the best hands.
Don’t wait! Book your dog’s spot in paradise by calling us today at K9 Wonderland, where every dog gets the royal treatment. Your furry family member deserves a holiday as delightful as yours!
