Essentials for Traveling with Your Labradoodle

Your Labradoodle is a big part of your family. Whether it is just the two of you or your entire family going on a trip, your Labradoodle needs his or her own traveling essentials. Prepare ahead of time for the trip and make sure you bring along the important necessities that your dog requires to travel safe and happy. You will need the same essentials whether you are traveling by car or plane. However, airlines have a variety of regulations you will need to adhere to for safe airline travel.

• Kennel – If your dog already has a kennel just bring it along on the trip. If not, you will want to purchase a kennel that is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down in comfortably. The latch needs to work properly and you will want to bring along a soft cushion, blanket and toys. The kennel can be used during transport or at the hotel or destination as a safe place for your dog to rest.
• Food and Medication – Pack enough food to last at least two to three days past your return date. This allows room for emergency delays and prevents you having to rush out to the store for more dog food when you arrive home. You will also want to bring along food and water bowls. If your dog takes medication you will want to bring enough to last one week past your return home date. This will assure your dog will never run out during or after the trip.
• Collar, Leash and Identification Tags – Always keep a collar on your dog when traveling. You will also want to update the information on his or her identification tags to include your dog’s name, your telephone number and your home address. Bring a leash for your dog. Most camp sites, dog-friendly hotels and other destinations require you to keep your dog on a leash when in public areas.
• Health Records and Vet Information – You will want to carry a copy of your dog’s health records. You will also want to get the phone number of the local animal hospital or veterinarian office at the destination. This information will come in handy during emergency situations while traveling.
• First-Aid Kit – Accidents happen and you want to be prepared. Bring along a canine first-aid kit that includes tweezers and bandages for emergencies.

Traveling with your dog should be exciting and fun when you are prepared with the necessities. All dogs are different and while some Labradoodles may enjoy every minute of a car ride others may feel anxious or stressed. Always discuss your trip with the veterinarian and how much your dog can handle. Older dogs or those with health conditions may not be able to fly. The veterinarian may also recommend providing your dog with calming aids to assure the trip goes smoothly. You know your Labradoodle the best and you will want to plan ahead to assure you are prepared for anything during the trip.

Photo credit: Matt Reinbold/Flickr

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