(To read Part I of this Travel Tips series, click on this link; to read Part II, click here)

Okay – you and your fur buddy have arrived at your family vacation spot! Hurrah! Now is when the real fun (with pet in tow!) begins… as long as you keep these reminders in the back of your mind at all times.

1. You Must Take Your Pet Along Most of the Time

You didn’t take Fido on vacation to sit in your Canadian lodging place while you toured solo. This means that practically whatever you choose to do during your family vacation will need to be pet-friendly.

Now, obviously you can go out for dinner, lunch, touring alone. But only if you’ve spent a good amount of time entertaining your pet. Remember that this family vacation getaway should be as thrilling for your kitty or pooch as it is for you.

2. Not Everyone Loves Your Pet as Much as You Do

It’s a fact of life; you’re always going to love your pet more than people outside of your immediate family. That means when Spotty yelps in the middle of the night, others who are staying at your Florida lodging area are going to be less-than-thrilled.

Similarly, not every place that allows pets may want yours. Sure, you know your pot-bellied pig is potty trained, but the hotel manager may not want to take the chance. If you’re shown the front door, don’t be surprised. (This is where maximum planning beforehand is critical. It’s not enough to find out if a place allows pets; you also have to find out if there are any limitations on the types and numbers of pets. In other words, a phone call to the staff is pragmatic and may save you some headaches.)

3. Your Pet is Going to Need Reassurance

Even if your doggie adores traveling, he or she still knows that home is far, far away. That could make him or her very antsy, especially if you have to leave him or her behind in your condo in Illinois for a few hours.

Just as you would for a child, bring along familiar objects for your dog or cat – a fetch toy, a special pillow, a favored blankie. Those small reminders of home could be all your furry friend needs to relax and unwind while you’re out for breakfast or sight-seeing.

Our final Travel Tips for vacationing with pets is up next!