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Stay Safe During National Pet Travel Safety Day

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A review of the things we can do to keep our pets the safest any time we travel with them.

The height of holiday travel has passed – airlines carried over 45 million passengers this season, and even more took to the roads at least 50 miles from home since December 16, 2016.

As pets are part of the family, many traveled with their families, and will continue to do so through this new year. January 2 is National Pet Travel Safety Day, and we want to share with you some tips for keeping your pet safe however and whenever he travels with you.

  • Traveling with your pet can be extremely stressful, as you are not only worried about yourself and your belongings, but your pets as well. Our pets are tuned into us, and are aware of our emotions, so be sure that when traveling, assure your pet that he’s safe and you’re in control. This will go a long way for his comfort level as you travel.

Related: Study Finds Most Pet Travel Seats Not Effective During Car Crashes

  • The most important thing that you can do when traveling with your pet is to ensure he is identified properly. ALWAYS make sure your pet has a collar and tag that has your name, phone number and secondary contact number. It’s a wise idea to be sure well beforehand that your pet is microchipped (always a good safety measure). Always be sure to take a couple of current pictures right before you head out just in case the worst happens and you are separated.
  • If you are traveling by car, remember that it’s not as easy as just popping your pooch in the car and hitting the road. An important part of every road trip is a carrier or crate. Your dog may not use a crate any other time, but in the car, even an abrupt stop at just 10 m.p.h can do significant damage to your dog or cat should he be thrown in the halt. Be sure the crate is big enough for your pet to turn, sit and lie in, and that the crate is secure and won’t slide as you accelerate/decelerate. If you don’t use a crate, do not let your pet ride with his head outside. One piece of debris in his eye and you could have some serious problems on vacation–and nobody wants that!
  • No matter the length of your trip, prepare as if it is a longer trip. In case there is some unforeseen circumstance that keeps the trip going longer, you’ll be glad you prepared with extra food and water. Even if you don’t travel across state lines, it’s a good idea to bring a copy of your pet’s shot records just in case you need to take an out-of-town trip to the vet.
  • Just as you might for your human family members, bring a travel-kit for your pet. Be sure to include the essentials of food and water, bowls and leash, but also bring waste bags and scooper for potty breaks on the road, as well as any medication, first-aid kits or grooming supplies your pet may need while gone. Sometimes dogs and cats may get car sick, so bring a few extra towels and wet wipe containers just in case, and don’t let your pet eat a big meal a few hours before you travel.
  • Find rest areas where you are able to take your pet. It’s never a good idea to leave your animal alone in a parked car, warm or cold, and again, you don’t want anything bad to happen on your trip.
  • If you are traveling by air, hopefully your pet is small enough to fit under the seat in a secure carrier with you. Otherwise, it’s not advised to travel by air with your pets as their accommodations not something your pet would be used to. If you have no choice but to travel by air with your pet, though, we suggest that you contact your vet beforehand to be sure that your pet is up to date on all shots and to get a health certificate from your vet. Most airlines require this to be dated no more than 10 days before departure, and helps make sure that your pet is up to the challenge of air travel. Though it might be tempting to give your pet a tranquilizer while traveling to help their anxiety, that could actually harm them in the long run, as their breathing can be affected, If you feel your pet will have any anxiety, be sure to ask your vet for some things to help relax your pet while in-flight.
  • If you are traveling outside of the country be sure to know what the animal regulations for the country to which you are flying are–it would be extremely traumatic to get to your destination only to find out your pet can’t enter the country for whatever reason. You may also need extra travel documents or accommodations, and knowing about these ahead of time is key.
  • If traveling by air, you must have a USDA-approved shipping crate. Make sure it is big enough for your pet to comfortably stand, sit, turn and lay and make sure it’s lined with something absorbable in case there is an accident in air. If you have a layover, airline personnel will often feed your pet as they check on them between flights–be sure there is a pouch of dried food visible outside the crate so they’ll be able to attempt to feed him while you’re separated. Another suggestion that will help with thirst is to freeze a small tray of water the night before. Put it inside the crate, frozen–it won’t spill during loading and by the time your pet is alone in the air, it’ll have melted and be available for drinking.

Related: How To Stop Car Sickness In Dogs And Have Fun Traveling Again!

  • When flying with your pet, tell as many airline employees as you that you are flying with your pet in the cargo hold. That way, more people are aware that your furry family member is flying with you and there will be plenty of people in the know should there be a delay or any issue that would warrant additional consideration. Be sure that your pet’s crate is marked ‘LIVE ANIMAL’, with a label that has your name, cell phone and destination phone on the crate as well. It’s a good idea to put a picture of your pet on the crate so that if your pet should get nervous and try to bolt, airline employees will know who they are looking for.

Traveling with your pet isn’t always the easiest thing to do, but if you plan well and are careful to put your pet’s safety at the top of your priority list, it can be done successfully and with lots of happy road trip memories to share when you return!


Take The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip with GoPetFriendly.com

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The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip Kicks Off this February, inspiring people to embrace road tripping with the best traveling companions ever--their pets!

This February, our pals at GoPetFriendly.com are taking a road trip–a special road trip!

Covering 15,000 miles across 48 of the United States, and featuring 17 live events, the folks at GoPetFriendly.com is taking their Class A Motorhome on a 10-month tour, with the hopes of showing pet lovers everywhere how fabulous trips with pets can be. The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip, sponsored by a prestigious group that includes The Bark, SleepyPod, The Honest Kitchen, Red Roof Inns, Winnebago, Alcott, goDog and 2 Hounds Design, and OF COURSE, Petguide.com, promises to showcase the benefits of companion pet travel, safety, and fun when traveling with your pet. Oh, there will be giveaways and goodie bags to be had! Yay swag!

Related: Stay Safe During National Pet Travel Safety Day

Most importantly, the Ultimate Road Trip will also partner with various animal shelters across the country, with a focus of the trip to be raising awareness for shelter animals all over the U.S. who are looking for their fur-ever homes, as the inspiration behind the creation of GoPetFriendly.com was a sweet, stray pup who was adopted by RV-lovin’ blogger Amy Burkert, and her hubby, Rod.

The ultimate trip starts on February 11, 2017 in Carmel, California, and then heads East to Phoenix, Arizona, where you can meet up with the road trippers at a live event. Other live events will be held in places like Charleston, SC; Annapolis, MD; St. Louis, MO; San Antonio, TX; and Deluth, MN (you can find the complete list of stops and events on GoPetFriendly.com), and there are tons of other ways you can keep up with the travel log.

Related: Rescue Dog Travels the World In Pooch-Perfect Renovated Van

You can follow along with every step (both human and paw) on GoPetFriendly.com, as well as on social media, and join the fun wherever you are using the hashtag #pawesomememories. Plus, we’ll be sure to share some of the fun here as well throughout the year of travel.

We’re thrilled to partner with this ‘pawsome’ adventure, and look forward to ‘traveling’ with you and your pets!

Product Review: The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier

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We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Some women are shoe fanatics. Others prefer jewellery. Me? I go gaga for pet carriers.

Pet carriers are “officially” my thing. I am obsessed with them. I have a dog purse for every occasion, in a range of colors and fabrics. And when I saw The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier online, I knew that it would soon join my collection (*Insert evil laugh here).

What first grabbed my attention, of course, was that classic VW design. Those iconic RVs of the 1960s never go out of style, and this pet carrier is its own fashion statement. Plus, it’s officially licensed by Volkswagen – it’s the real deal, no knock-offs for this pet carrier aficionado!

Another key point is the length of the VW Campervan Pet Carrier. Forget built to scale – this carrier seems like it offers the same floor plan as the motorized version. Measuring in at 23.6” by 11.81” by 11.81, there’s plenty of room for pets, travel essentials, a kitchen sink, whatever. I’m not kidding – this carrier goes on forever. Oscar is thinking of renovating and renting out the basement apartment! Sure, there’s room enough for Zed, but Oscar still hasn’t made up his mind about the new guy.

A few other things the VW Campervan Pet Carrier features:

  • Mesh windows so pets can see what traffic is coming at them
  • Lightweight, strong, and long
  • Comfortable and convenient carry handle and strap
  • Folds flat for easy storage when not in use

I’m going to turn things over to my furry pals, Oscar and Zed, to give you the grand tour of the VW Campervan Pet Carrier.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Got my lifejacket on and I’m ready to hit the road! Let’s go before the new guy catches wind of our summer plans.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Crap. He found out. Who told? Zed, I hate to break it to you, but there’s not enough room for you in here.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Look! I’m an VW RV Camper!


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Oscar, I don’t know what you’re talking about, I fit in just fine.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Peek-a-boo!


The Verdict

I love the VW Campervan Pet Carrier, and it’s coming with me whenever I’ve got to bring my dogs along with me for the ride.

It’s perfect for anyone who has small pets – cats or dogs – and can fit two small dogs comfortable.

You can’t have mine – go buy your own at The Monster Factory for $45.

Note: PetGuide.com was NOT compensated for this review. Our reviewer received a VW Campervan Pet Carrier to review. The opinions expressed in this post are the author’s. We provide unbiased feedback of the products and share products we think our readers would enjoy using and learning more about.

3 Adventurous Travel Carriers for Hip Pets

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Take a gander at the hip, new pet travel products that are going places in 2017.

Thanks to the way we view pet ownership now, it’s easier than ever to travel with your pet. If your pet matches specific size limits, you can take them with you on planes, trains, boats, and every other form of transport you can think of. More and more hotels now allow you to travel with your pets, and pet friendly B&Bs are a common occurrence. The question of “Can I travel with my pet” has been replaced by “How can I travel comfortably with my pet while making a fashion statement?” Your pet’s comfort and your sense style concerns have been heard – here are three cool pet carriers that are available for the 2017 travel season.

Urbanites will love the Pet on Wheels (POW), a dog carrier that lets your dog be a bark-seat driver!

Where else but Italy would you expect the first and only hard pet carrier designed for scooters to come from? Urbanites will love the Pet on Wheels (POW), a dog carrier that lets your dog be a bark-seat driver! The POW can be attached to the back of your motorcycle, scooter, bicycle, or used as car seat. The design is compliant with highway and traffic codes worldwide, and as a result, offers you and your pet a safe travel experience. And safety isn’t the only thing it boasts – the POW is available in 11 different colors, so it can match the color of your scooter.

We're gagging over Cloverpet's pet backpacks with a small semi circular window -- fondly nicknamed bubble or astronaut backpacks.

We’re gagging over Cloverpet’s pet backpacks with a small semi circular window — fondly nicknamed bubble or astronaut backpacks. Perhaps you’ve even seen one in person? Offering unique style and comfort, your pet can observe the outside world through the little window, or the two mesh sides that give her space to breathe. Really, this is a mobile pet bed, in-cabin airplane carrier, and car seat all in one, and it looks truly amazing. Someone walked into the bakery I was writing at the other day with a bright green Cloverpet backpack, and I was delighted. The man’s cat was calm and unperturbed, even enjoying her walk (and small lunch break).

The Catysmile Backpack Cat Carrier is in the shape of a cute cat face that looks like it's wearing sunglasses.

The Catysmile Backpack Cat Carrier is smaller than Cloverpet’s backpack, but it makes a totally different style statement. The backpack is in the shape of a cute cat face that looks like it’s wearing sunglasses. It even has cat ears – seriously, it’s so adorbs, you may want to get one even if you don’t have a cat (or perhaps it’s cute enough to warrant adopting a kitty?!?). Essentially, your cat can watch the world through the two windows of the cat’s eyes, that combined with the mesh sides, also provide airflow. It’s honestly ideal for your cat. But even better? It’s made from vegan-friendly canvas and faux leather with durable hardware! We’re crazy about this cat (carrier), lady!

Win Ultimate Prizes on the Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip

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Catching up with GoPetFriendly and a couple of winners who look fetching with our Lucy Pet Product Gift Basket.

As the weather grows warmer, a pet parent’s thoughts automatically shift to vacation mode. Visions of road trips, glamping, camping, and summer retreats, dance through our heads.

But as the Editor of PetGuide.com, I can’t just up and leave my post – there’s pet news to be covered, damn it, and it’s not going to cover itself! That’s why I have to live vicariously through GoPetFriendly, as travel blogger Amy Burket and her furry crew (including her hubby) chase adventure on The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip. Their team is traveling across the U.S. in 2017, throwing pet-friendly events full of free food, fun, and freebies, for both humans and pets.

Catching up with GoPetFriendly and a couple of winners who look fetching with our Lucy Pet Product Gift Basket.When Amy Burket asked to partner up with them, we jumped on board – in spirit, of course. And if we couldn’t be there in person, at least we could be there in the form of kick ass prizes and swag! At each event, PetGuide.com gives away a Lucy Pet Products Surfin’ Jack Moisturizing Gift Pack.

Winners Canon and Winston made a clean getaway at a recent stop on the tour, and were kind enough to send pictures of their booty. (Sure, they look happy now, but will they be smiling when mom lathers them up?!?)

Be sure to catch up with GoPetFriendly at the next stop on their Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip and pick up a free swag bag! This summer, look out for them in:

  • Saturday, June 10: Mystic, CT
  • Saturday, June 17: Boston, MA
  • Saturday, June 24: Bar Harbor, ME
  • Saturday, July 22: Louisville, KY
  • Saturday, July 29: St. Louis, MO
  • Saturday, August 19: Duluth, MN
  • Saturday, August 26: La Crosse, WI

Smart Pet Travel Over the Holidays with PetSmart

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PetSmart has everything you need for a road trip with your pet or if you need a trusted sitter while you're away.

The holidays are all about spending time with your loved ones. And because your pets are a part of your family, you might not be thrilled with the idea of leaving them behind when you need to travel. But don’t worry; PetSmart has all of your holiday pet travel needs taken care of. The five travel products below will help make any road trip or flight a lot smoother for you and your furry travel buddy.

Kurgo Pet First Aid Kit

Accidents happen, and you can’t predict when your pet will get hurt or sick. Having a first aid kit for your furkid is a great way to give yourself additional peace of mind during hectic holiday travel. And just like any first aid kit designed for people, the Kurgo Pet First Aid Kit has everything that you’d need in a pinch.

This pet first aid kit will fit easily into your glove compartment or luggage, and it includes tools like sting relief pads, gauze pads, cotton swabs, and tweezers, as well as antiseptic towelettes, scissors, a first aid guide with instructions, and more.

 

 

Kurgo Collaps-A-Bowl Dog Bowl

Perfect for adventurous dogs while they’re on the go, the Kurgo Collaps-A-Bowl will help ensure your canine companion remains hydrated and ready for action as you make your way to your holiday destination.

The great thing about this bowl is the fact that it boasts an accordion-like design, so it will collapse to the point that it will be just one inch thick – perfect for tucking into a travel bag. Whether you store it in your car or in your carry-on bag, this bowl won’t get in the way.

 

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

Looking for a high quality soft-sided pet carrier? Then check out the stylish Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier. This carrier features both top and side entries to make it easier for your pet to enter and exit, along with three mesh ventilation panels and a comfy faux lambskin liner inside. The removable shoulder strap makes it easier to carry your pet across airports or to your car, and the locking zippers provide extra security, while the rear pocket lets you conveniently store must-haves within reach. Plus, if you’re headed out for a long car ride, the seat belt security strap will help keep your pet safe.

 

Petmate 2-Door Top Load Pet Kennel

If you and your pet prefer a hard-sided carrier, the Petmate 2-Door Top Load Pet Kennel is a great choice. Made of durable plastic, this carrier features a top entry and a side entry, and the doors close securely to keep your furbaby safe. There are also plenty of ventilation holes so you can see your pet and your companion can look out to see what’s going on. The handle makes it easy to carry this kennel, but once you arrive at your destination, it could also serve as a quiet space where your pet can relax and nap on a soft blanket until he gets used to his new surroundings.

 

 

Snoozer 4-in-1 Pet Roll Around

One of the cutest and most fun pet carriers is the Snoozer 4-in-1 Pet Roll Around. Designed for both dogs and cats, this carrier with wheels is approved for airline travel to help ensure your pet will remain secure and comfortable. Beyond that, however, you could also convert it into a car seat for your holiday road trip, or you could use it as a pet bed or a backpack.

 

 

And if you’re ordering all your travel items online, you get fast, free shipping on orders over $49 at PetSmart.com!

Traveling Without Your Pet?

Sometimes, much as you’d like to take your pet with you on your travels, it isn’t feasible to do so. If that’s the case this holiday season, rest assured that PetSmart’s PetsHotel has your back with around-the-clock care in an environment that will feel like an all-inclusive vacation for your pet.

PetHotel isn’t a kennel—it’s a comfortable pet hotel boarding facility that’s staffed with safety-certified associates, so you can have peace of mind that your furry family members will be in the best of hands while you’re away from home. Your pet could enjoy playtime, training sessions, spa services, and more, thanks to the various perks, amenities, and services that are offered. On top of that, this welcoming hotel for pets even features different accommodations, just like a human hotel. Choose from a standard guest room or a private suite for your dog, or book a kitty cottage for your feline.

Whether you decide to travel with your pet or let him enjoy his or her own little vacation, the PetSmart PetsHotel has you covered with everything that you need to ensure your pet’s safety and happiness. So here’s to a stress-free holiday season for both you and your best friend!

Family Flew Home To Chicago But Their Dog Gets Left Behind In Germany

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It seems that poor pooches just can’t get a break when it comes to flying with their families.

It seems that poor pooches just can’t get a break when it comes to flying with their families. First, a dog lost its life on a United Airlines flight, then the company managed to mistakenly send a family pet to Japan, and now this. The latest story of pet travel gone awry is about Joey, a 9-year-old beagle and Australian shepherd mix, who was held back in Germany without his owner’s knowledge.

Following the death of John MacEnulty’s mother, the family was moving back to their St. Louis home after a year they’ve spent in Germany. They’ve booked their flight through United Airlines, but since their PetSafe reservations program was suspended due to the many issues, they were advised by the company to use Gradlyn Petshipping instead. Although the family managed to book passage for their pets, both the cat and dog had to be transported on a separate plane that left 30 minutes later.

When the family landed in Chicago, they were notified that Joey was held back in Germany as he seemed anxious and scratched his nose. Yes, according to the Lufthansa officials, the fact that the dog had a nose scratch was enough to deem that it’s unsafe for him to travel. Of course, the MacEnulty’s were livid, as both of their pets were checked and vetted by a veterinarian before their trip, so claiming that their pooch was suddenly not fit to fly seemed like a stretch.

Molly, the family’s cat made it out safely to the United States, but the family is worried sick for Joey, who’s still at Frankfurt. Even if the airline does good on their promise and reunites Joey with his pawrents on Wednesday, it’s still a week of unnecessary stress, both for the dog and his owners. Hopefully, the pooch will be home on time, and this incident will be remembered as the last pet transportation flub United Airlines made.

Alaska Airlines Introduces Stricter Policies for Emotional Support Animals

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From ferrets to snakes- some emotional support animals will not be allowed on this airline's flights.

This was not a good year for pets on flights. From a string of tragic incidents to mixed up flights, airlines have been struggling to meet the standards when it comes to transporting animals. While pet airline travel is still an area that needs a lot of work and thought put into, it doesn’t mean that smuggling in your pet as a fake comfort animal on a regular flight is the solution to the problem. In fact, countless pet parents doing just that is what prompted most major airline companies to revisit their policies, latest of which was Alaska Airlines.

Beginning May 1, the Seattle based airline company will require passengers with emotional support animals to provide additional documentation. This will include “animal health and behavioral documents, as well as a signed document from a medical doctor or mental health professional, at least 48 hours in advance of departure”. And the stricter rules don’t end there: Alaska Airline announced which of the non-traditional therapy animals will be allowed on flights.

The list of animals that didn’t get the airline’s approval includes hedgehogs, ferrets, rodents, snakes, spiders, amphibians, goats, insects, and animals with tusks, horns or hooves. However, there’s an exception to the last group: trained miniature horses can be on this company’s flights.

Every day, around 150 emotional support and therapy animals use Alaska Airline’s services. To ensure both their safety and interest, as well as that of their other passengers, the company had to revise its rules. Up until now, the policies of most airlines were focused on traditional service animals, which allowed for irresponsible pet owners to find and exploit loopholes that allowed them to bring their pets to flights. Which often ended up in disaster: pets that are passed off as emotional support animals are not trained properly (sometimes not at all) and don’t know how to behave on flights. This often resulted in incidents with other passengers, real service animals, or sometimes even the staff on the plane.

Alaska Airline’s new policy regarding emotional support animals is supposed to put a stop to these issues. Hopefully, this means that airlines are taking the issues of pet ownership and real service animals seriously, and will work to improve the conditions of their airborne travels.


7 Pet-Friendly Hotel Etiquette Tips

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If you’re renting a hotel room, you’ll want to make sure that your pooch is a good guest with these pet-friendly etiquette tips.

There’s nothing better than taking a well-deserved vacation… except for taking one with your canine companion in tow. Unfortunately, not all hotels are accepting of pets but there are an increasingly large number of hotel chains and independent hotels that open their arms to patrons with pooches. Even if a hotel is pet-friendly, however, there are certain rules you’ll be expected to follow. Here are out top seven pet-friendly hotel etiquette tips.

Etiquette Tips for Pet-Friendly Hotels

You should never assume that a hotel will accept your pet, even if they advertise themselves as a pet-friendly hotel. Many hotels that accept pets require an additional deposit or they set aside specific rooms for pet owners. To make sure that you and your canine companion have a pleasant and hassle-free stay, follow these seven etiquette tips:

  1. Make sure your dog is housetrained. Unless your dog is fully housetrained you shouldn’t be taking him anywhere except for a walk or to the vet. Even if you clean up after him, an accident could leave stains or unpleasant odors for the next guest.

Related: Proper Canine Camping Etiquette For Well-Mannered Mutts

  1. Don’t bring any unwanted passengers. Before you take your dog to a hotel, make sure he is free from parasites like fleas and ticks – you don’t want to start an infestation or cause a problem for the next dog owner. You should also make sure he’s caught up on his shots so he doesn’t accidentally spread something to the next dog who stays in the room.
  2. Avoid leaving your dog alone. You may not be able to avoid leaving your dog alone for an hour or two at dinner time but try not to leave him alone all day. If your dog is uncomfortable in the room he may be prone to destructive behavior that could damage hotel property.
  3. Bring your own food and water bowls. Not only will bringing your dog’s own food and water bowls make him feel more at-home, but it is a lot more sanitary than using the hotel’s ice bucket. If you forget to bring your own, ask the hotel for special bowls to use.

Related: 6 Reasons You Need To Camp in Style With Your Pooch in an RV

  1. Try to keep your dog from barking. While you might be immune to your dog’s incessant barking, your fellow hotel guests aren’t and it is very rude to let your dog bark all night. If you have to leave your dog alone in the room, make sure he has toys to keep him occupied so he doesn’t bark out of boredom.
  2. Be honest about your dog’s size. Some hotels have size or breed restrictions for dogs. As silly as it may seem to you, they exist for a reason so don’t lie about your dog’s size and try to sneak him past the front desk. If you’re honest with the hotel manager and can convince him that your dog won’t be a problem, he may let you keep him anyway.
  3. Clean up after your dog. This should be a no-brainer for all dog owners but some people still fail to clean up after their pets. Whether your dog is doing his business in the outdoor greenspace or he makes a mess in the room, clean up after him – it’s your responsibility.

If you’re planning to take a trip with your dog, plan ahead to ensure that your pet-friendly accommodations will be ready and waiting for you. Be sure to confirm your trip a few days out as well, just to make sure that everything is in order.

Must-Have Products That Make It Easier to Travel with Your Cat

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Make life easier with must-have products that will ensure your kitty’s vacation goes smoothly.

Cats could be challenging when it comes to taking them on the road with you. Thankfully, there are some innovative pet products out there that could make traveling with your feline friend easier. Check out a few of our picks below, and consider using these the next time that you’re planning a trip with your pet.

Carriers and Kennels for Traveling in Comfort

When taking your kitty on a road trip, you want to be sure that she’ll feel secure in your car. But a small carrier during a long journey could get uncomfortable pretty quickly. That’s why there are products like Petego Pet Tube Kennel. This travel kennel, which comes in multiple sizes, is shaped like a tube, and you can open it to various lengths so that you can give your kitty the space that she needs to feel at ease. It’s also lightweight, and it folds flat for storage when not in use.

Another great option is the One for Pets Fabric Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel/Shelter, which could also be used once you settle into your hotel. It’s spacious yet lightweight, can easily be secured onto your car’s backseat, and folds flat when not in use. There are also several entrances, and you have the option of hanging a hammock inside so your cat has an extra comfortable spot to rest. Plus, you can choose between using it as two separate compartments or one large space.

Food and Water Bowls for Eating on the Go

Switching to food and water bowls that are made for travel is also recommended, as these are made of materials that won’t break or shatter if you accidentally drop the bowls, and they’re easy to clean. Check out the IDEGG Collapsible Silicone Pet Bowl, as an example. It’s collapsible for storage, and easily pops up when you need to use it. Plus, it’s made of food-grade silicone and it’s dishwasher safe.

If that doesn’t suit your fancy, other similar products are available, too, such as the Sabuy Collapsible Dog/Cat Travel Bowl. Simply pop the bowls open to the right depth for food and water for your kitty.

Don’t Forget the Litter Box!

Another must-have when traveling with your cat is a litter box, but you likely won’t be able to take the litter box that your kitty uses at home. Thankfully, you could choose from products like this Portable Cat Litter Carrier or the Pawaboo Foldable Cat Litter Box, as a couple of examples that boast some desirable features.

When searching for the right portable litter box, check that the size will be appropriate for your pet. It should also be made of durable, waterproof materials. And if it could fold up nicely into a neat little package that could be packed and stored with ease, that’s definitely a plus.

Traveling with Cats Has Never Been Easier

Traveling with cats could be a bit nerve-wracking, but with the high quality products that are on the market today, you could make the entire process more fun and less stressful.

Stay Safe During National Pet Travel Safety Day

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A review of the things we can do to keep our pets the safest any time we travel with them.

The height of holiday travel has passed – airlines carried over 45 million passengers this season, and even more took to the roads at least 50 miles from home since December 16, 2016.

As pets are part of the family, many traveled with their families, and will continue to do so through this new year. January 2 is National Pet Travel Safety Day, and we want to share with you some tips for keeping your pet safe however and whenever he travels with you.

  • Traveling with your pet can be extremely stressful, as you are not only worried about yourself and your belongings, but your pets as well. Our pets are tuned into us, and are aware of our emotions, so be sure that when traveling, assure your pet that he’s safe and you’re in control. This will go a long way for his comfort level as you travel.

Related: Study Finds Most Pet Travel Seats Not Effective During Car Crashes

  • The most important thing that you can do when traveling with your pet is to ensure he is identified properly. ALWAYS make sure your pet has a collar and tag that has your name, phone number and secondary contact number. It’s a wise idea to be sure well beforehand that your pet is microchipped (always a good safety measure). Always be sure to take a couple of current pictures right before you head out just in case the worst happens and you are separated.
  • If you are traveling by car, remember that it’s not as easy as just popping your pooch in the car and hitting the road. An important part of every road trip is a carrier or crate. Your dog may not use a crate any other time, but in the car, even an abrupt stop at just 10 m.p.h can do significant damage to your dog or cat should he be thrown in the halt. Be sure the crate is big enough for your pet to turn, sit and lie in, and that the crate is secure and won’t slide as you accelerate/decelerate. If you don’t use a crate, do not let your pet ride with his head outside. One piece of debris in his eye and you could have some serious problems on vacation–and nobody wants that!
  • No matter the length of your trip, prepare as if it is a longer trip. In case there is some unforeseen circumstance that keeps the trip going longer, you’ll be glad you prepared with extra food and water. Even if you don’t travel across state lines, it’s a good idea to bring a copy of your pet’s shot records just in case you need to take an out-of-town trip to the vet.
  • Just as you might for your human family members, bring a travel-kit for your pet. Be sure to include the essentials of food and water, bowls and leash, but also bring waste bags and scooper for potty breaks on the road, as well as any medication, first-aid kits or grooming supplies your pet may need while gone. Sometimes dogs and cats may get car sick, so bring a few extra towels and wet wipe containers just in case, and don’t let your pet eat a big meal a few hours before you travel.
  • Find rest areas where you are able to take your pet. It’s never a good idea to leave your animal alone in a parked car, warm or cold, and again, you don’t want anything bad to happen on your trip.
  • If you are traveling by air, hopefully your pet is small enough to fit under the seat in a secure carrier with you. Otherwise, it’s not advised to travel by air with your pets as their accommodations not something your pet would be used to. If you have no choice but to travel by air with your pet, though, we suggest that you contact your vet beforehand to be sure that your pet is up to date on all shots and to get a health certificate from your vet. Most airlines require this to be dated no more than 10 days before departure, and helps make sure that your pet is up to the challenge of air travel. Though it might be tempting to give your pet a tranquilizer while traveling to help their anxiety, that could actually harm them in the long run, as their breathing can be affected, If you feel your pet will have any anxiety, be sure to ask your vet for some things to help relax your pet while in-flight.
  • If you are traveling outside of the country be sure to know what the animal regulations for the country to which you are flying are–it would be extremely traumatic to get to your destination only to find out your pet can’t enter the country for whatever reason. You may also need extra travel documents or accommodations, and knowing about these ahead of time is key.
  • If traveling by air, you must have a USDA-approved shipping crate. Make sure it is big enough for your pet to comfortably stand, sit, turn and lay and make sure it’s lined with something absorbable in case there is an accident in air. If you have a layover, airline personnel will often feed your pet as they check on them between flights–be sure there is a pouch of dried food visible outside the crate so they’ll be able to attempt to feed him while you’re separated. Another suggestion that will help with thirst is to freeze a small tray of water the night before. Put it inside the crate, frozen–it won’t spill during loading and by the time your pet is alone in the air, it’ll have melted and be available for drinking.

Related: How To Stop Car Sickness In Dogs And Have Fun Traveling Again!

  • When flying with your pet, tell as many airline employees as you that you are flying with your pet in the cargo hold. That way, more people are aware that your furry family member is flying with you and there will be plenty of people in the know should there be a delay or any issue that would warrant additional consideration. Be sure that your pet’s crate is marked ‘LIVE ANIMAL’, with a label that has your name, cell phone and destination phone on the crate as well. It’s a good idea to put a picture of your pet on the crate so that if your pet should get nervous and try to bolt, airline employees will know who they are looking for.

Traveling with your pet isn’t always the easiest thing to do, but if you plan well and are careful to put your pet’s safety at the top of your priority list, it can be done successfully and with lots of happy road trip memories to share when you return!

Take The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip with GoPetFriendly.com

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The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip Kicks Off this February, inspiring people to embrace road tripping with the best traveling companions ever--their pets!

This February, our pals at GoPetFriendly.com are taking a road trip–a special road trip!

Covering 15,000 miles across 48 of the United States, and featuring 17 live events, the folks at GoPetFriendly.com is taking their Class A Motorhome on a 10-month tour, with the hopes of showing pet lovers everywhere how fabulous trips with pets can be. The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip, sponsored by a prestigious group that includes The Bark, SleepyPod, The Honest Kitchen, Red Roof Inns, Winnebago, Alcott, goDog and 2 Hounds Design, and OF COURSE, Petguide.com, promises to showcase the benefits of companion pet travel, safety, and fun when traveling with your pet. Oh, there will be giveaways and goodie bags to be had! Yay swag!

Related: Stay Safe During National Pet Travel Safety Day

Most importantly, the Ultimate Road Trip will also partner with various animal shelters across the country, with a focus of the trip to be raising awareness for shelter animals all over the U.S. who are looking for their fur-ever homes, as the inspiration behind the creation of GoPetFriendly.com was a sweet, stray pup who was adopted by RV-lovin’ blogger Amy Burkert, and her hubby, Rod.

The ultimate trip starts on February 11, 2017 in Carmel, California, and then heads East to Phoenix, Arizona, where you can meet up with the road trippers at a live event. Other live events will be held in places like Charleston, SC; Annapolis, MD; St. Louis, MO; San Antonio, TX; and Deluth, MN (you can find the complete list of stops and events on GoPetFriendly.com), and there are tons of other ways you can keep up with the travel log.

Related: Rescue Dog Travels the World In Pooch-Perfect Renovated Van

You can follow along with every step (both human and paw) on GoPetFriendly.com, as well as on social media, and join the fun wherever you are using the hashtag #pawesomememories. Plus, we’ll be sure to share some of the fun here as well throughout the year of travel.

We’re thrilled to partner with this ‘pawsome’ adventure, and look forward to ‘traveling’ with you and your pets!

Product Review: The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier

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We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Some women are shoe fanatics. Others prefer jewellery. Me? I go gaga for pet carriers.

Pet carriers are “officially” my thing. I am obsessed with them. I have a dog purse for every occasion, in a range of colors and fabrics. And when I saw The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier online, I knew that it would soon join my collection (*Insert evil laugh here).

What first grabbed my attention, of course, was that classic VW design. Those iconic RVs of the 1960s never go out of style, and this pet carrier is its own fashion statement. Plus, it’s officially licensed by Volkswagen – it’s the real deal, no knock-offs for this pet carrier aficionado!

Another key point is the length of the VW Campervan Pet Carrier. Forget built to scale – this carrier seems like it offers the same floor plan as the motorized version. Measuring in at 23.6” by 11.81” by 11.81, there’s plenty of room for pets, travel essentials, a kitchen sink, whatever. I’m not kidding – this carrier goes on forever. Oscar is thinking of renovating and renting out the basement apartment! Sure, there’s room enough for Zed, but Oscar still hasn’t made up his mind about the new guy.

A few other things the VW Campervan Pet Carrier features:

  • Mesh windows so pets can see what traffic is coming at them
  • Lightweight, strong, and long
  • Comfortable and convenient carry handle and strap
  • Folds flat for easy storage when not in use

I’m going to turn things over to my furry pals, Oscar and Zed, to give you the grand tour of the VW Campervan Pet Carrier.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Got my lifejacket on and I’m ready to hit the road! Let’s go before the new guy catches wind of our summer plans.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Crap. He found out. Who told? Zed, I hate to break it to you, but there’s not enough room for you in here.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Look! I’m an VW RV Camper!


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Oscar, I don’t know what you’re talking about, I fit in just fine.


We flashback to the ‘60s for our review of The Monster Factory’s VW Campervan Pet Carrier.

Peek-a-boo!


The Verdict

I love the VW Campervan Pet Carrier, and it’s coming with me whenever I’ve got to bring my dogs along with me for the ride.

It’s perfect for anyone who has small pets – cats or dogs – and can fit two small dogs comfortable.

You can’t have mine – go buy your own at The Monster Factory for $45.

Note: PetGuide.com was NOT compensated for this review. Our reviewer received a VW Campervan Pet Carrier to review. The opinions expressed in this post are the author’s. We provide unbiased feedback of the products and share products we think our readers would enjoy using and learning more about.

3 Adventurous Travel Carriers for Hip Pets

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Take a gander at the hip, new pet travel products that are going places in 2017.

Thanks to the way we view pet ownership now, it’s easier than ever to travel with your pet. If your pet matches specific size limits, you can take them with you on planes, trains, boats, and every other form of transport you can think of. More and more hotels now allow you to travel with your pets, and pet friendly B&Bs are a common occurrence. The question of “Can I travel with my pet” has been replaced by “How can I travel comfortably with my pet while making a fashion statement?” Your pet’s comfort and your sense style concerns have been heard – here are three cool pet carriers that are available for the 2017 travel season.

Urbanites will love the Pet on Wheels (POW), a dog carrier that lets your dog be a bark-seat driver!

Where else but Italy would you expect the first and only hard pet carrier designed for scooters to come from? Urbanites will love the Pet on Wheels (POW), a dog carrier that lets your dog be a bark-seat driver! The POW can be attached to the back of your motorcycle, scooter, bicycle, or used as car seat. The design is compliant with highway and traffic codes worldwide, and as a result, offers you and your pet a safe travel experience. And safety isn’t the only thing it boasts – the POW is available in 11 different colors, so it can match the color of your scooter.

We're gagging over Cloverpet's pet backpacks with a small semi circular window -- fondly nicknamed bubble or astronaut backpacks.

We’re gagging over Cloverpet’s pet backpacks with a small semi circular window — fondly nicknamed bubble or astronaut backpacks. Perhaps you’ve even seen one in person? Offering unique style and comfort, your pet can observe the outside world through the little window, or the two mesh sides that give her space to breathe. Really, this is a mobile pet bed, in-cabin airplane carrier, and car seat all in one, and it looks truly amazing. Someone walked into the bakery I was writing at the other day with a bright green Cloverpet backpack, and I was delighted. The man’s cat was calm and unperturbed, even enjoying her walk (and small lunch break).

The Catysmile Backpack Cat Carrier is in the shape of a cute cat face that looks like it's wearing sunglasses.

The Catysmile Backpack Cat Carrier is smaller than Cloverpet’s backpack, but it makes a totally different style statement. The backpack is in the shape of a cute cat face that looks like it’s wearing sunglasses. It even has cat ears – seriously, it’s so adorbs, you may want to get one even if you don’t have a cat (or perhaps it’s cute enough to warrant adopting a kitty?!?). Essentially, your cat can watch the world through the two windows of the cat’s eyes, that combined with the mesh sides, also provide airflow. It’s honestly ideal for your cat. But even better? It’s made from vegan-friendly canvas and faux leather with durable hardware! We’re crazy about this cat (carrier), lady!

Win Ultimate Prizes on the Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip

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Catching up with GoPetFriendly and a couple of winners who look fetching with our Lucy Pet Product Gift Basket.

As the weather grows warmer, a pet parent’s thoughts automatically shift to vacation mode. Visions of road trips, glamping, camping, and summer retreats, dance through our heads.

But as the Editor of PetGuide.com, I can’t just up and leave my post – there’s pet news to be covered, damn it, and it’s not going to cover itself! That’s why I have to live vicariously through GoPetFriendly, as travel blogger Amy Burket and her furry crew (including her hubby) chase adventure on The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip. Their team is traveling across the U.S. in 2017, throwing pet-friendly events full of free food, fun, and freebies, for both humans and pets.

Catching up with GoPetFriendly and a couple of winners who look fetching with our Lucy Pet Product Gift Basket.When Amy Burket asked to partner up with them, we jumped on board – in spirit, of course. And if we couldn’t be there in person, at least we could be there in the form of kick ass prizes and swag! At each event, PetGuide.com gives away a Lucy Pet Products Surfin’ Jack Moisturizing Gift Pack.

Winners Canon and Winston made a clean getaway at a recent stop on the tour, and were kind enough to send pictures of their booty. (Sure, they look happy now, but will they be smiling when mom lathers them up?!?)

Be sure to catch up with GoPetFriendly at the next stop on their Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip and pick up a free swag bag! This summer, look out for them in:

  • Saturday, June 10: Mystic, CT
  • Saturday, June 17: Boston, MA
  • Saturday, June 24: Bar Harbor, ME
  • Saturday, July 22: Louisville, KY
  • Saturday, July 29: St. Louis, MO
  • Saturday, August 19: Duluth, MN
  • Saturday, August 26: La Crosse, WI

Smart Pet Travel Over the Holidays with PetSmart

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PetSmart has everything you need for a road trip with your pet or if you need a trusted sitter while you're away.

The holidays are all about spending time with your loved ones. And because your pets are a part of your family, you might not be thrilled with the idea of leaving them behind when you need to travel. But don’t worry; PetSmart has all of your holiday pet travel needs taken care of. The five travel products below will help make any road trip or flight a lot smoother for you and your furry travel buddy.

Kurgo Pet First Aid Kit

Accidents happen, and you can’t predict when your pet will get hurt or sick. Having a first aid kit for your furkid is a great way to give yourself additional peace of mind during hectic holiday travel. And just like any first aid kit designed for people, the Kurgo Pet First Aid Kit has everything that you’d need in a pinch.

This pet first aid kit will fit easily into your glove compartment or luggage, and it includes tools like sting relief pads, gauze pads, cotton swabs, and tweezers, as well as antiseptic towelettes, scissors, a first aid guide with instructions, and more.

 

 

Kurgo Collaps-A-Bowl Dog Bowl

Perfect for adventurous dogs while they’re on the go, the Kurgo Collaps-A-Bowl will help ensure your canine companion remains hydrated and ready for action as you make your way to your holiday destination.

The great thing about this bowl is the fact that it boasts an accordion-like design, so it will collapse to the point that it will be just one inch thick – perfect for tucking into a travel bag. Whether you store it in your car or in your carry-on bag, this bowl won’t get in the way.

 

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

Looking for a high quality soft-sided pet carrier? Then check out the stylish Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier. This carrier features both top and side entries to make it easier for your pet to enter and exit, along with three mesh ventilation panels and a comfy faux lambskin liner inside. The removable shoulder strap makes it easier to carry your pet across airports or to your car, and the locking zippers provide extra security, while the rear pocket lets you conveniently store must-haves within reach. Plus, if you’re headed out for a long car ride, the seat belt security strap will help keep your pet safe.

 

Petmate 2-Door Top Load Pet Kennel

If you and your pet prefer a hard-sided carrier, the Petmate 2-Door Top Load Pet Kennel is a great choice. Made of durable plastic, this carrier features a top entry and a side entry, and the doors close securely to keep your furbaby safe. There are also plenty of ventilation holes so you can see your pet and your companion can look out to see what’s going on. The handle makes it easy to carry this kennel, but once you arrive at your destination, it could also serve as a quiet space where your pet can relax and nap on a soft blanket until he gets used to his new surroundings.

 

 

Snoozer 4-in-1 Pet Roll Around

One of the cutest and most fun pet carriers is the Snoozer 4-in-1 Pet Roll Around. Designed for both dogs and cats, this carrier with wheels is approved for airline travel to help ensure your pet will remain secure and comfortable. Beyond that, however, you could also convert it into a car seat for your holiday road trip, or you could use it as a pet bed or a backpack.

 

 

And if you’re ordering all your travel items online, you get fast, free shipping on orders over $49 at PetSmart.com!

Traveling Without Your Pet?

Sometimes, much as you’d like to take your pet with you on your travels, it isn’t feasible to do so. If that’s the case this holiday season, rest assured that PetSmart’s PetsHotel has your back with around-the-clock care in an environment that will feel like an all-inclusive vacation for your pet.

PetHotel isn’t a kennel—it’s a comfortable pet hotel boarding facility that’s staffed with safety-certified associates, so you can have peace of mind that your furry family members will be in the best of hands while you’re away from home. Your pet could enjoy playtime, training sessions, spa services, and more, thanks to the various perks, amenities, and services that are offered. On top of that, this welcoming hotel for pets even features different accommodations, just like a human hotel. Choose from a standard guest room or a private suite for your dog, or book a kitty cottage for your feline.

Whether you decide to travel with your pet or let him enjoy his or her own little vacation, the PetSmart PetsHotel has you covered with everything that you need to ensure your pet’s safety and happiness. So here’s to a stress-free holiday season for both you and your best friend!

Family Flew Home To Chicago But Their Dog Gets Left Behind In Germany

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It seems that poor pooches just can’t get a break when it comes to flying with their families.

It seems that poor pooches just can’t get a break when it comes to flying with their families. First, a dog lost its life on a United Airlines flight, then the company managed to mistakenly send a family pet to Japan, and now this. The latest story of pet travel gone awry is about Joey, a 9-year-old beagle and Australian shepherd mix, who was held back in Germany without his owner’s knowledge.

Following the death of John MacEnulty’s mother, the family was moving back to their St. Louis home after a year they’ve spent in Germany. They’ve booked their flight through United Airlines, but since their PetSafe reservations program was suspended due to the many issues, they were advised by the company to use Gradlyn Petshipping instead. Although the family managed to book passage for their pets, both the cat and dog had to be transported on a separate plane that left 30 minutes later.

When the family landed in Chicago, they were notified that Joey was held back in Germany as he seemed anxious and scratched his nose. Yes, according to the Lufthansa officials, the fact that the dog had a nose scratch was enough to deem that it’s unsafe for him to travel. Of course, the MacEnulty’s were livid, as both of their pets were checked and vetted by a veterinarian before their trip, so claiming that their pooch was suddenly not fit to fly seemed like a stretch.

Molly, the family’s cat made it out safely to the United States, but the family is worried sick for Joey, who’s still at Frankfurt. Even if the airline does good on their promise and reunites Joey with his pawrents on Wednesday, it’s still a week of unnecessary stress, both for the dog and his owners. Hopefully, the pooch will be home on time, and this incident will be remembered as the last pet transportation flub United Airlines made.

Alaska Airlines Introduces Stricter Policies for Emotional Support Animals

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From ferrets to snakes- some emotional support animals will not be allowed on this airline's flights.

This was not a good year for pets on flights. From a string of tragic incidents to mixed up flights, airlines have been struggling to meet the standards when it comes to transporting animals. While pet airline travel is still an area that needs a lot of work and thought put into, it doesn’t mean that smuggling in your pet as a fake comfort animal on a regular flight is the solution to the problem. In fact, countless pet parents doing just that is what prompted most major airline companies to revisit their policies, latest of which was Alaska Airlines.

Beginning May 1, the Seattle based airline company will require passengers with emotional support animals to provide additional documentation. This will include “animal health and behavioral documents, as well as a signed document from a medical doctor or mental health professional, at least 48 hours in advance of departure”. And the stricter rules don’t end there: Alaska Airline announced which of the non-traditional therapy animals will be allowed on flights.

The list of animals that didn’t get the airline’s approval includes hedgehogs, ferrets, rodents, snakes, spiders, amphibians, goats, insects, and animals with tusks, horns or hooves. However, there’s an exception to the last group: trained miniature horses can be on this company’s flights.

Every day, around 150 emotional support and therapy animals use Alaska Airline’s services. To ensure both their safety and interest, as well as that of their other passengers, the company had to revise its rules. Up until now, the policies of most airlines were focused on traditional service animals, which allowed for irresponsible pet owners to find and exploit loopholes that allowed them to bring their pets to flights. Which often ended up in disaster: pets that are passed off as emotional support animals are not trained properly (sometimes not at all) and don’t know how to behave on flights. This often resulted in incidents with other passengers, real service animals, or sometimes even the staff on the plane.

Alaska Airline’s new policy regarding emotional support animals is supposed to put a stop to these issues. Hopefully, this means that airlines are taking the issues of pet ownership and real service animals seriously, and will work to improve the conditions of their airborne travels.

7 Pet-Friendly Hotel Etiquette Tips

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If you’re renting a hotel room, you’ll want to make sure that your pooch is a good guest with these pet-friendly etiquette tips.

There’s nothing better than taking a well-deserved vacation… except for taking one with your canine companion in tow. Unfortunately, not all hotels are accepting of pets but there are an increasingly large number of hotel chains and independent hotels that open their arms to patrons with pooches. Even if a hotel is pet-friendly, however, there are certain rules you’ll be expected to follow. Here are out top seven pet-friendly hotel etiquette tips.

Etiquette Tips for Pet-Friendly Hotels

You should never assume that a hotel will accept your pet, even if they advertise themselves as a pet-friendly hotel. Many hotels that accept pets require an additional deposit or they set aside specific rooms for pet owners. To make sure that you and your canine companion have a pleasant and hassle-free stay, follow these seven etiquette tips:

  1. Make sure your dog is housetrained. Unless your dog is fully housetrained you shouldn’t be taking him anywhere except for a walk or to the vet. Even if you clean up after him, an accident could leave stains or unpleasant odors for the next guest.

Related: Proper Canine Camping Etiquette For Well-Mannered Mutts

  1. Don’t bring any unwanted passengers. Before you take your dog to a hotel, make sure he is free from parasites like fleas and ticks – you don’t want to start an infestation or cause a problem for the next dog owner. You should also make sure he’s caught up on his shots so he doesn’t accidentally spread something to the next dog who stays in the room.
  2. Avoid leaving your dog alone. You may not be able to avoid leaving your dog alone for an hour or two at dinner time but try not to leave him alone all day. If your dog is uncomfortable in the room he may be prone to destructive behavior that could damage hotel property.
  3. Bring your own food and water bowls. Not only will bringing your dog’s own food and water bowls make him feel more at-home, but it is a lot more sanitary than using the hotel’s ice bucket. If you forget to bring your own, ask the hotel for special bowls to use.

Related: 6 Reasons You Need To Camp in Style With Your Pooch in an RV

  1. Try to keep your dog from barking. While you might be immune to your dog’s incessant barking, your fellow hotel guests aren’t and it is very rude to let your dog bark all night. If you have to leave your dog alone in the room, make sure he has toys to keep him occupied so he doesn’t bark out of boredom.
  2. Be honest about your dog’s size. Some hotels have size or breed restrictions for dogs. As silly as it may seem to you, they exist for a reason so don’t lie about your dog’s size and try to sneak him past the front desk. If you’re honest with the hotel manager and can convince him that your dog won’t be a problem, he may let you keep him anyway.
  3. Clean up after your dog. This should be a no-brainer for all dog owners but some people still fail to clean up after their pets. Whether your dog is doing his business in the outdoor greenspace or he makes a mess in the room, clean up after him – it’s your responsibility.

If you’re planning to take a trip with your dog, plan ahead to ensure that your pet-friendly accommodations will be ready and waiting for you. Be sure to confirm your trip a few days out as well, just to make sure that everything is in order.

Must-Have Products That Make It Easier to Travel with Your Cat

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Make life easier with must-have products that will ensure your kitty’s vacation goes smoothly.

Cats could be challenging when it comes to taking them on the road with you. Thankfully, there are some innovative pet products out there that could make traveling with your feline friend easier. Check out a few of our picks below, and consider using these the next time that you’re planning a trip with your pet.

Carriers and Kennels for Traveling in Comfort

When taking your kitty on a road trip, you want to be sure that she’ll feel secure in your car. But a small carrier during a long journey could get uncomfortable pretty quickly. That’s why there are products like Petego Pet Tube Kennel. This travel kennel, which comes in multiple sizes, is shaped like a tube, and you can open it to various lengths so that you can give your kitty the space that she needs to feel at ease. It’s also lightweight, and it folds flat for storage when not in use.

Another great option is the One for Pets Fabric Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel/Shelter, which could also be used once you settle into your hotel. It’s spacious yet lightweight, can easily be secured onto your car’s backseat, and folds flat when not in use. There are also several entrances, and you have the option of hanging a hammock inside so your cat has an extra comfortable spot to rest. Plus, you can choose between using it as two separate compartments or one large space.

Food and Water Bowls for Eating on the Go

Switching to food and water bowls that are made for travel is also recommended, as these are made of materials that won’t break or shatter if you accidentally drop the bowls, and they’re easy to clean. Check out the IDEGG Collapsible Silicone Pet Bowl, as an example. It’s collapsible for storage, and easily pops up when you need to use it. Plus, it’s made of food-grade silicone and it’s dishwasher safe.

If that doesn’t suit your fancy, other similar products are available, too, such as the Sabuy Collapsible Dog/Cat Travel Bowl. Simply pop the bowls open to the right depth for food and water for your kitty.

Don’t Forget the Litter Box!

Another must-have when traveling with your cat is a litter box, but you likely won’t be able to take the litter box that your kitty uses at home. Thankfully, you could choose from products like this Portable Cat Litter Carrier or the Pawaboo Foldable Cat Litter Box, as a couple of examples that boast some desirable features.

When searching for the right portable litter box, check that the size will be appropriate for your pet. It should also be made of durable, waterproof materials. And if it could fold up nicely into a neat little package that could be packed and stored with ease, that’s definitely a plus.

Traveling with Cats Has Never Been Easier

Traveling with cats could be a bit nerve-wracking, but with the high quality products that are on the market today, you could make the entire process more fun and less stressful.

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