But it wasn’t just the plane ride; every stage of the move was made more challenging with three creatures who weren’t interested in sitting still while we checked off our to-do list.

Whether your move is long-distance or just down the block, there’s a lot to accomplish. Here are a few things I learned from my experience – and a few I learned about afterwards – that will help you and your pups with the transition.

Leaving your old home

If you’re a renter, then your only concerns on moving out are cleaning up and minor repairs in order to get your deposit back. However, if you’re a homeowner looking to sell, dogs can complicate the process a bit.

Keeping your home clean for potential buyers and getting out of the way for viewings can be a challenge if you have dogs. But it’s a necessary part of the process if you want your home to sell.

• Amp up the walks
  There’s a lot going on, but it’s important not to neglect your dogs’ needs now. Exercise keeps their energy down, which means they’ll be less likely to engage in messy, destructive behaviors at home, and they’ll be more likely to cooperate if you have to leave the home fast for a showing or leave them in their crates.
• Have a game plan
  Have everything you need to get out of the house in one dedicated location, and know where you’ll head if someone calls for a last minute showing. Being prepared will make it less stressful for everyone.
• Schedule showings during your usual walk time
  It won’t always be possible, but let your realtor know that those are the best times for your family.
• Restrict your dog’s access
  If you’re like my family, your dog is welcome in every area of your home, but during this time, consider making certain areas off-limits to keep them cleaner. This can be done simply by shutting doors to certain rooms, or using a doggy gate.
• Never, ever leave your dogs loose during a showing
  Even the friendliest dog can frighten someone who isn’t comfortable with dogs, and you always run the risk of a visitor leaving a door or gate open and allowing your dog to escape. Instead, put your dogs in their crates if you can’t get them out of the house with you.

Finding your new home

If you’re looking to rent a new place, the first consideration, of course, is whether they accept dogs at all, so do your research first with an online tool like Rent.com’s pet-friendly search. Remember: a lot of places will require proof of vaccination before they’ll let your dog move in, so be sure you’re up to date and have the documentation.

If you’re buying a house, shopping for your new home is one of the most enjoyable parts of the moving process. But whether renting or buying, it’s important to take your dog into consideration while going through it.

• Find nearby dog-friendly locations
  Do you currently love taking your pup to the dog park or for a walk down to your local café, where the baristas leave him a bowl of water and a treat? Make sure you can maintain similar routines in your new location.
• Consider your dog’s new living quarters
  It’s likely you’ve ensured the new home has enough bedrooms for the human occupants, but what about your dog? Where will his dog bed live? His food and water?
• Look into backyard safety
  When moving with my pups, one of the things I was most excited about was giving them their first backyard, so that was on my list of must-haves: a safe, fenced-in area where they could roam. But you should also look at how visible your dogs are when outside. If they can be seen from a major roadway while behind your fence, it can put them at higher risk of being stolen.
• Check out other neighborhood animals
  When you’re seriously considering a home, take a walk with your dog around the block. Note the barking dogs in backyards, roaming cats, or other creatures, and consider how they may affect your daily routine.

Packing and unpacking

You’ve found your new dream home and are ready to leave the old one. Now it’s time for the dreaded process of putting everything you own in boxes. Here’s how to help your dog through it.

• Maintain your calm
  Recognize this may be anxiety-inducing for your dog, but it will be especially so if you are feeling stressed about it. You can also help reduce your dog’s fear about the major changes going on by maintaining his routine as much as possible.
• Pack your dog’s room last
  Whatever room is your pup’s favorite, save it for the end. That way, she’ll spend less time with the upheaval there stressing her out.
• Get your dogs out for moving day
  There are a lot of people coming and going during the actual moving out and in, and that means many opportunities for a stressed dog to escape. On my moving day, I took both dogs and the baby to a nearby dog-friendly restaurant to hang out until it was all over. Other ideas are to ask a friend or family member to have them over for the day or find out if your vet offers boarding. Not an option? When in doubt, a crate can help ensure they are safe.

Traveling to your new location

If your move is long distance, you’ll need to decide how to move your items as well as your family to your new location.

For my family, it was a no-brainer. There was no way that all five of us were up for a cross-country trip in a moving truck. We hired a moving company to take our stuff, and then we all boarded a plane. But for some families, driving with all your household items and household members can be a fun adventure.

A few things to consider for your pup when deciding between methods of transportation:

• Your car ride will take longer with a dog joining you
  Do you normally like to drive as many hours as possible before you stop? That’s not best for your dog, who should get out to stretch his legs and take a bathroom break every four to six hours. Naturally, this will add to your travel time. Also, make sure you plan where you will stay the night. It may not always be easy to arrange pet-friendly accommodations unless you do so in advance.
• Larger dogs cannot travel in-cabin
  If your dog is small enough to fit underneath a plane seat, she can likely travel with you on the plane, but larger dogs must go with the cargo. Hundreds of thousands of dogs travel safely in cargo, but there is a risk posed by greater temperature variations.
• Older dogs may not be up for a long trip
  Whether it is days on the road or hours unsupervised in cargo, senior dogs can be at greater risk of suffering health issues. Talk to your veterinarian about what travel method is safest. In some cases, you may have to make the tough choice of re-homing your dog with a friend or family member rather than putting him through the ordeal.
• Get a baggage cart for your plane ride
  I’ll be honest: I’m a penny pincher. Who needs a cart when suitcases have wheels? The answer: you do! You’ll appreciate having more hands available to meet your dog’s needs as you travel through the airport.

Settling in

Now is the time to set up or re-establish good habits! Focus on rules, boundaries, and limitations.

• Establish your new routine quickly
  It’s likely some things will change in the new home, but try to stay as close as possible to your previous routine. If you’ve switched time zones, jump right into the new schedule like it didn’t even happen. Still go for that 9 a.m. walk in your new location – even if it may feel like 11 a.m. to your dog.
• Update your dog tags
  You want your new contact information on your dog stat. Being in a new place can increase the chances that your dog bolts and gets lost.
• Find a veterinarian
  Ask for recommendations from neighbors and co-workers, and get your dog in for a check-up. Getting your dog in before an emergency situation arises can help him get to know the new vet in a relaxed way. Especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors, find out if there are any region-specific vaccines that your dog may now need.
• Don’t wash those dog blankets
  When moving, your gut instinct may be to get everything fresh and new – but stop at your dog’s items. Keep them smelling just like your pup. That familiar scent can help him feel more at home in a new location.

Have you ever moved with your dog, or pack? Share your experience with us in the comments.

The post Moving With Your Dog appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Let’s say your workplace has gone dog-friendly. Here are the questions to ask yourself before you let your best friend tag along.

Is My Dog Socialized Enough to Bring?

This is probably the single most important question. Does your dog get along well with other dogs and people, especially ones she hasn’t met before?

If the answer is yes, the next question is whether there are any kinds of people or dogs that he doesn’t get along with. Some dogs get along better with women than with men, for example, or may have a fear of all people in uniforms. They may love small dogs but fear big ones. And is your office kid-friendly? Then you need to be absolutely certain that your dog gets along with children, too.

Do Any of My Coworkers Have a Fear or Allergy?

If you share workspace with or are likely to encounter someone often during the day who is afraid of dogs or who has allergies, ask them first before you bring your dog in.

If they do, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can never bring your dog with you. Have them keep you posted ahead of time on days when they might not be in the office. And, while you can’t do anything about allergies, if you have a friendly and well-behaved dog, ask your frightened co-worker whether they’d be interested in using your dog to work on their phobia — a win-win situation.

Can I Trust My Co-workers With My Dog?

This is the flipside of whether it’s safe for your co-workers to have your dog around them. Is your dog safe around your co-workers?

This sounds sinister, as if someone is going to injure or kidnap your dog, but it can be a completely different kind of danger. Is your co-worker not going to respect your rules and create misbehaviors? Or can they not resist slipping him treats or sharing lunch when you’re not looking?

Remember: When that spicy curry sits wrong with Fido, you’re the one who’s going to have to clean it up. So make sure your co-workers know and will respect your rules.

Are My Office and Work Station Dog-Friendly Enough?

There are also practical considerations. If you work in a steel-mill anywhere besides the front office, you probably shouldn’t bring your dog to work. An open-plan office can also be an issue if your dog likes to wander. And speaking of wandering, how many doors are between you and outside, and do they tend to be left open?

A good rule is this: If I left my dog unleashed and walked away for five minutes, is there any chance she could run away and get outside by the time I come back?

Another thing to consider is traffic in your work area and how likely your dog is to react to it — excitedly and aggressively, or calmly?

Finally, are you able to leave your dog alone with no issues? Will he remain calm or start barking, whining, or otherwise making a fuss and being a distraction? If you can leave him alone, can you take steps to make sure he stays in your area, either with a door or barricade, or by securing him with a leash?

Would My Daily Responsibilities Cause Problems?

Do you tend to spend most of your time in one or two places, or are you constantly on the move? If you have an office and stay mostly planted at your desk that’s much better than if you work in the mail room and are walking every floor every day, twice a day — unless, of course, you can walk your dog with you, but that depends on your dog.

Does your work day involve a lot of meetings? If so, would your dog be disruptive, or calm and not distracting?

Do you have to drive a lot as part of your work day? If so, what are your options? Can you leave your dog safely (and calmly) in your office or bring him along for the ride? Or would you need to arrange for a coworker to watch him for you?

Here’s a hint: If the answer to that last question is “Yes,” then you probably shouldn’t bring your dog to work, no matter how eager your coworker might be to babysit. Your dog, after all, is your responsibility.

Answering these questions honestly will give you a good idea in general of whether you should bring your dog to work with you, but there are two other questions to consider every day before you bring her along.

Do I Have Any Errands to Run Today?

This does require planning ahead, but if you have to stop somewhere on the way home, will it be safe to leave your dog in the car? If it’s the middle of summer and you’re off work well before sunset, then probably not. If you can’t do that errand at lunch or after you’ve brought your dog home, then she may need a day off.

Even if it would be safe to leave your dog in the car, can you? If you’re getting a new TV and the only place to put it is in the back seat — where your dog is — then he should not come with you in the first place.

Will People I Live With Be Home Late?

Finally, what’s going on at home? Maybe someone else in your household normally takes care of the dog during the day but they’re not going to be home — in which case you might have to bring your dog along. Or, conversely, maybe they have the day off and want to look after the dog, so you can leave her at home.

Maybe it’s date night after you’ve both been at work, in which case you might not want to leave your dog home alone all day and then all evening. This is a good day to bring your dog with you.

Obviously, living arrangements are highly variable and individual. The key point is to make sure you know what’s happening at home that day, and plan accordingly when it comes to the dog.

Bringing our dogs to work is probably one of the best perks of the modern-day office — but in order to make it as simple and stress-free as possible, it’s worth taking the time to answer these questions first.

Do you bring your dog to work? What issues have you had that we didn’t mention, and what was the general effect on office morale? Let us know in the comments!

The post How to Bring Your Dog to Work the Right Way appeared first on Cesar's Way.

But just like some humans love it, and some humans hate it, you should take your time and consider whether or not it truly is a good fit for your dog. And when camping with canines, you also need to make sure you take the time to prepare and pack properly to ensure your trip is fun and safe.

Should you take your dog camping?

It may sound like a good idea to you… but what would your dog say if you could ask her? Be honest with yourself about your dog’s temperament and habits before heading out.

• Does your dog become stressed-out easily?
• Does your dog have trouble responding to commands when there are distractions?
• Does your dog bark incessantly?
• Does your dog resist being tethered on a leash?
• Does your dog have medical issues that may need immediate attention?
• Does your dog frequently run away or wander?
• Does your dog display aggressive tendencies around other dogs or animals?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then your dog may be uncomfortable or unsafe on the trip.

Preparing to take your dog camping

Before you head out, there are a few things that you should do.

Get vaccines up to date
Visit or contact your veterinarian to ensure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations — or if any additional ones are recommended for the area you will be camping in.

Apply flea or tick medication
You’ll likely encounter these pests while camping with dogs, so take steps to protect your dog. Remember, they’re not just nuisances; they can also cause serious issues such as Lyme disease. Be sure to start treatments as long as possible before setting off on your trip.

Microchip your dog
Even if your dog is very obedient, there’s a chance that you may become separated, and collars can easily come off if they become tangled on a branch or other object. Take the extra step, and get him a microchip.

Make sure it’s dog-friendly
Not all campsites allow dogs, and even those that do often have specific rules. Save yourself a lot of disappointment and hassle by verifying in advance.

Start with a day trip
If it’s your first time out, keep it short, so you can learn how your dog will cope.

Let a friend or family member know you’re going
As well as where you’re going and when you expect to return. That way, if they don’t hear from you at that time, they can send help.

What to pack for your dog’s camping trip

Don’t forget to bring these important items along!

• Collar, ID tags, and a short leash for walking
• A stake and a longer leash for tethering
• A crate
• Food, water, and dishes
• Treats
• Poop bags
• Bedding
• Dog jacket and booties (if needed for the weather)
• Towel
• Dog brush and tick comb
• Safety light or illuminated leash/collar for night time
• Canine first aid kit (Here is checklist for your dog’s first aid kit) 
• Medications (if your dog is on any)
• Contact information for the nearest vet and emergency pet clinic

While you and your dog are camping

Once you reach the campgrounds, make sure you keep your dog’s needs in mind.

Provide access to clean water — at all times
Hydration is important, so make sure his bowl is full and within reach.

Supervise your dog
Going off-leash may be an option at some camping sites, but that doesn’t mean you should allow your dog free reign. Your dog can encounter any number of dangerous creatures or go chasing after prey if you don’t keep a watchful eye. Consider using a crate or tethering your dog when you are unable to pay as much attention.

Provide a warm place to sleep
The best place for your dog to sleep is in the tent with you. You’ll be aware if temperatures drop at night, and it will also keep her safe from nocturnal creatures, such as raccoons, skunks, and bears.

Watch for signs of heat stroke or over-exhaustion
All this outdoor exercise is great, but make sure it’s not too much for your dog. If he needs it, take a break.

If you must leave your dog, crate her
Leaving your dog on a leash can be dangerous if she encounters a wild animal or breaks free. Generally, a crate will keep her safer from the elements and critters if you must be away for a period of time.

Always pick up after your dog!
Leaving dog poop out — even in the wild — is disrespectful to other campers and also potentially harmful to the environment.

Check your dog for…
Ticks, scratches, cuts, burs, and thorns. Don’t forget to look at the bottom of his feet and inside his nose and ears.

The post Camping With Canines appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Five Places To Vacation with Your Dog

• Sonoma Valley, California

The trip starts on the scenic West Coast in Sonoma, California. Known for its expansive and beautiful vineyards, Sonoma is the ideal place for a relaxing vacation for you and your pooch. What you may not know is that Sonoma is also a very dog friendly city which means that the wineries aren’t strictly for humans. Over 50 wineries in Sonoma Valley delight in their dog friendly establishments. So when touring the serene wineries of Sonoma, feel free to bring your dog along as you sample the local harvests.

After a long day of tasting assorted wines, make your way to one of the restaurants in town where even the dogs have menus. Howards station Café and Glen Court Café both offer delectable doggy dining alongside their humans. But if feeding your pet tableside isn’t your concern, many other restaurants in the area offer dog-friendly patio seating and good food too.

Eventually, your dog is going to need some time outdoors so head over to one of the regional parks in the area for some doggy one-on-one time. Hike difficulties range from easy to advanced depending on the park so make sure to choose according to your dog and your experience level.

• Fort Collins, Colorado

Next on your U.S. road trip, make sure to stop in Fort Collins, Colorado for an experience of a different sort. While it may not strike you as the most popular Colorado destination for dog lovers, it may surprise you how much you can do with your dog in this humble town.

The typical attraction of Fort Collins is the numerous breweries that the city offers and dogs aren’t excluded from the fun. At most breweries in town, your dog is welcome to accompany you on the patio as you try out the assortment of craft beers. If the patio isn’t enough, New Belgium Brewery and Funkwerks Brewery actually allow dogs inside their tasting rooms for a more intimate experience.

When you’re ready to spend some time lakeside with your pup, take the short drive up to Horsetooth Reservoir for a good splash and a good time. You can expect a short hike down to get a spot on the water but once you’ve made it down, feel free to play a game of fetch in the water. It’s fun for your dog and great exercise too. But don’t forget to take a dip yourself; the water is just as refreshing as it looks.

And when you’re ready to settle down for the night, head to The Best Western University Inn for dog-friendly accommodations.

• Austin, Texas

When you’re ready to leave the mountain life behind, it’s time to take your dog on an urban adventure. In Austin, you and your dog can travel most anywhere together. Most retail establishments have adopted a dog-friendly attitude as long as the dogs are well-behaved and friendly. Most restaurants in Austin follow a similar mindset and allow for your furry friend to hang out on the patio as you take in the sights as well as the food of the thriving city.

When the cityscape begins to become overwhelming for either you or your dog, Austin also offers over 15 off leash dog parks to take your pooch to unwind and socialize. It is very important on a trip like this to observe your dog’s emotions and take care of their instinctual needs.

• Chattanooga, Tennessee

If you’re looking for the next great adventure, hop on the highway off to Chattanooga for some outdoor fun. The best activity in this area is hiking the expansive gorges. North Chickamauga Creek Pocket Wilderness is a perfect all-day hike for you and your dog if you are willing to take on the whole ten miles. And when the heat becomes overwhelming, don’t be afraid to go for a quick dip in the creek that runs throughout the gorge.

Then take a sunset walk on the Walnut Street Bridge for a relaxing walk across the Tennessee River. The peaceful walk offers gorgeous views of Coolidge Park and downtown. After walking the expanse of the bridge, make your way with your pup to one of the many restaurants offering dog-friendly patios. You can have a good hearty meal, and you both can take it easy.

After your day of excitement, head on over to the Best Western Heritage in to get some sleep for the next leg of your journey together.

• Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The last stop on the road trip is Cape Cod. The beaches in the area are numerous and widespread but you must watch out for summer dog restrictions on some of the beaches. Because of a high influx of humans, admittance of four-legged friends on certain beaches is prohibited but there are still some gems that will allow your dog year round. Truro, Wellfleet, Orleans, and Eastham Beaches are those that are always accepting our pups. On these beaches, dogs are allowed anywhere there isn’t a designated swim beach for humans so stake out a nice sunny spot for you and your dog and feel free to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Watch out for signage regarding nesting shore birds, however, as summer is their breeding season.

If you’re interested in a nice walk or run with your pooch, feel free to hop on the Cape Cod Rail Trail for a historic walk on what was once a 22 mile railroad through many of the dog-friendly beach towns. Food and water are available on the trail so you and your dog can be fed and hydrated if you choose to travel to other beaches from there.

Just remember these dog-friendly experiences will remain that way as long as we and our pups remain good citizens. So, remember the basics:

• Clean up after your dog
• Observe all local leash laws
• Only bring your dog along if they are friendly and well-behaved

What are your favorite summer vacation destinations to bring your dog? Tell us about them in the comments!

The post 5 Best Places To Spend Your Summer Vacation With Your Dog appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Tips to Follow

Know before you go

Whether you plan to camp with your pup in an RV park, pitch a tent at your favorite lakeside campground or hike several miles to an idyllic destination, make certain you know the rules and regulations related to dogs, according to Jon Asher, a Santa Fe, New Mexico, resident who runs online canine outfitter company Wild Mountain Online.

“First, find out if dogs are allowed at the campground,” says Asher, who has camped countless times with his Labradors, ten-year-old Rio and four-year-old Lily, and plans to do another cross-country trip this summer. “If they are (allowed), ask about the rules, like where they’re allowed and where they’re not, what to do with their waste, and whether they have to be on leash.”

Unfortunately, quite a few national parks restrict access to dogs, says Westlake Village, California, author Ellen Eastwood, who wrote The Trail Hound’s Handbook: Your Family Guide to Hiking with Dogs. State parks and national forests, however, are a bit more lax, she says.

“Make sure you know where you’re going and if your dog is welcome,” she advises. “The national parks and places where there’s a protected balance of nature, like Yosemite and Yellowstone, are very explicit about where dogs are allowed and where they’re not, and their website is good about being thorough about each park. State parks and national forests are a lot more inviting for dog owners, but there are still regulations.”

Pest Prevention

Protect your pal from troublesome fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, heartworm and other outdoor pests by applying flea and tick preventives and giving her heartworm medication well in advance of your trip, Eastwood advises.

“Talk to your vet ahead of time about vaccinations against Lyme disease and heartworm,” in addition to making sure the pup is up to date on her rabies shots, she says. “Apply the flea and tick medication in advance so it has time to cover their whole body, and brush your dog after hikes, checking behind their ears, under the collar, armpits – anywhere a tick might hide.”

Don’t forget about larger pests. Always put away your dog’s food and water at night, in a secure container away from easy access, unless you want bears wandering around your campsite.

Train, Train, Train

Basic obedience — with recall (“Come”) being the most important command to master — is a concept your pup should understand well before you hit the trail, Asher says. Being in control of your pup will keep her safe, particularly if camping in an unfamiliar area or one with wildlife or other loose dogs.

“Obedience training is critical,” he says. “If they’re well-trained, they’ll be less likely to be obnoxious and do things like growling or barking at other campers, or even fighting with other dogs.”

The commands your dog should know include “Sit”, “Stay”, “Down”, “Come”, and “Leave It”, and your dog should be able to walk properly on a leash. Even if your pup has perfect manners, Eastwood advises keeping her on leash at all times.

“I’ve tried letting my dog off-leash in the past, but there are just so many things that can go wrong,” she says. “If there’s a loose dog, for instance, I know my dog will sit and stay by my side instead of trying to jerk away and run off. It’s best to keep your dog in check,” she says. “That way, the situation stays a little calmer.”

Condition Your ‘Couch Puppy’

In addition to checking your dog’s basic obedience skills, also make certain she’s physically fit for your upcoming outdoor adventure, Eastwood advises, particularly if she spends most of her time lounging inside and playing on a manicured lawn.

“Some dogs might not be ready to hop up and take a five mile hike, so it makes sense to do a little conditioning,” she says. “Look at it as you would a person. Is your dog is young or old? Overweight? Does she have arthritis, or is she generally healthy? If you have a couch puppy, it would be a good idea to check with your veterinarian.”

Young dogs have seemingly boundless energy, but even they can injure themselves if they are not used to uneven terrain. Explains Eastwood, “They have growing bones and can possibly hurt themselves by being a little too active on the trail, stepping on rocks and things,” adding that it takes time to develop protective calluses on their paw pads. “Take it slow and condition your dog on nature paths before tackling elevation gains or hiking through rocky terrain.”

Use caution with older dogs, too. “Know what your dog is capable of,” she says. “Remember that with dogs, you don’t always know when they’re in distress. They have a very high threshold for discomfort. A walk could be getting to a dog’s joints, but she’s not going to tell you until the next day when she’s sore and doesn’t want to get up and go out.” Senior dogs will benefit from joint health supplements. Consult your vet.

Pack a Doggie Bag

When you pack your backpack, assemble a pack for your pooch, too. It should include essentials, like pre-measured food stored in plastic baggies or an airtight container, food and water bowls, a canine first aid kit, basic grooming tools, poop bags, an extra leash and collar with identification tags, and bedding.

“Put all the dog’s gear in a dog backpack,” Asher says. “Dogs love to have a job to do, so put your pooch to work carrying her own camping supplies – but make sure you get her used to wearing it before you go.”

The pack can also include extras, like dog-safe sunscreen, blinking LED collar lights, booties, a high-visibility jacket and a life vest for water adventures, he continues. “Always bring a favorite toy, like a Frisbee or other retrieving toy,” he adds. “Something familiar will help the dog feel more comfortable wherever you’re camping.”

Contented Canine

Most — if not all — types of dogs make excellent camping companions, but some breeds, such as snub-nosed brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs, will need extra attention, Eastwood says. “All dogs love to be outside, but there are things to think about… A dog with a shorter snout is not as well-equipped to cool herself, so she’s going to have more trouble (with) breathing and panting.”

Snub-nosed or not, when camping with your canine pal, make certain you provide plenty of clean water, particularly when you’re hiking or playing in the sun. “If you’re getting thirsty, your dog is probably already way past thirsty,” she says. “If you can imagine breathing through your own mouth through an entire hike, you’d get really parched. Same with dogs.”

Also provide a comfy bed or blanket inside your trailer or tent for cooling off and snoozing, Asher says. “Rio usually sleeps in the tent right by the door,” Asher says. “He likes to guard and protect us, so he hangs out in the vestibule and keeps watch. That’s his spot.”

With some planning and preparation, camping with your dog offers an easy opportunity to bond with your four-legged friend, enjoy the great outdoors and experience the beauty of Mother Nature together.

“Whatever you do, use common sense,” Eastwood says. “And have fun!”

What is your favorite dog-friendly camping spot? Share it with us in the comments.

The post 6 Tips To Enjoy The Great Outdoors With Your Dog appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Hey, being blind has to have a few advantages! The biggest is having Nash, my yellow Lab, go everywhere with me including planes, public transportation, hotels, even cruise ships. That’s right — he gets to go everywhere with me!

Automobile of America Association (AAA) and Best Western recently conducted a study about pet owners, their travel habits with their pets and favorite destinations.

Fully one-half of all pet owners would take their pets with them on all vacations and trips if they could. No surprise here, as we all know that pets need vacations too.

One-quarter of all pet owners admitted sneaking their pets in to a motel or hotel. Again, this number is not very surprising as how many people sneak a car in to a hotel or motel parking lot, and I hate to think of all the other things people are sneaking in.

According to the study, the favorite destinations of people traveling with their pets are:

• Visiting Families and Friends 78%
• Road Trips 50%
• Visiting the Beach 33%
• Camping 27%
• Visiting a City 23%
• Hiking 17%
• Other Activities 9%

Let’s take a closer look. Since pets are a part of our families, it makes sense that the most popular answer is taking your pet with you when visiting families and friends. And what’s better than your breathing in the country air on a long road trip?

But taking your pet to the beach is more of a surprise. What’s the point unless you have a pet fish that you can take in the water. We all know how frustrating getting sand out of every crack can be; think about that for your pet the next time you take him or her to the beach.

Being a city dweller who is scared to death of being out in the woods, I couldn’t imagine taking my dog camping, although most dogs love nature and are hunters and gatherers, so camping is probably the most at home they will feel outside of being at home.

Then we get to my favorite destination to take Nash, visiting a city. I would be completely lost every time I go to an unfamiliar city if I didn’t have Nash to guide me.

I’m inclined to think hiking was so low on the list because they used the word “pets” in the survey. Outside of dogs, what pet would you take hiking? I can’t see people taking their cats, fish, or any other pet with them on a nice hike.

According to the study these were the top reasons people take their pets on vacation:

• Don’t Want to Leave Their Pet with Someone Else 61%
• The Cost of Traveling with Their Pet Is Cheaper than a Kennel or Pet Sitter 51%
• Pets Are Good Cuddle Buddies on the Road 27%
• Pets Always Let You Choose the Destination 18%
• They Don’t Talk Back 15%
• They Don’t Hog the Remote 12%
• They Snore Less than a Significant Other 7%

We’ve all seen how people treat their own family and possessions; do you really want to trust someone like that with your pet? Boarding a pet or hiring a pet sitter can be quite costly. Just look at what baby sitters are getting these days — why should pet sitters be any less compensated?

If you haven’t had the chance to cuddle with your dog in a king sized hotel bed, I highly recommend it.

Unless you have a highly trained monkey who is also very communicative, then your pet better not be choosing your vacation destination.

The reason a lot of people think pets are better than children is that they don’t talk back, your pets will not sit in the back seat asking, “Are we there yet” or wanting to listen to Justin Bieber on the radio. So why not take your pet on vacation with you?

Then we come to least popular answer: That their pet doesn’t snore as much as their significant other. My guy Nash actually snores all the time, and if I had a significant other, I am sure I would have to answer that my dog snores more than them.

According to the study the biggest pet peeves reported by travelers are:

• Others not Cleaning Up after Their Pets 77%
• Dogs that Bark Constantly 57%
• Not Keeping a Dog on a Leash 49%
• Not Having an Obedient or Trained Pet 43%
• Aggressive Pets 41%
• Not Having a House Broken Pet 29%

One of the most common questions I get about my guide dog is: Do you really have to pick up after him? Yes, I do. So why should we expect anything less? It is common courtesy, avoids a health hazard, and is also the best way to know about the health of your pet. So bring those poop bags with you on vacation.

I think the reason so many people love my guide dog Nash is he’s really really cute, very friendly and helpful, and unbelievably quiet — he never barks. Is there anything worse than when you’re on vacation and there are screaming kids next door to you? It’s a safe bet that a barking dog would be a close second.

There are a lot of people out there who are afraid of dogs, for whatever reason. Maybe they were traumatized by one as a little kid, but I imagine that, for these people, the sight of a dog not on a leash can be pretty scary to them. So people, please keep your dogs on a leash when you are on vacation. Who knows if someone else’s dog is aggressive and your pup is out of reach?

Which brings us to the last point… It’s amazing to me how many similarities there are between pets and children. I think disobedient pets and kids fall into the same category, and that category is annoyance.

An aggressive pet is just another version of a disobedient/untrained pet. Let’s be honest, an aggressive pet is just a bully, and no one likes a bully — especially on a vacation.

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Many of these issues will greatly depend on which country you are going to, because they all have different requirements.

Some Things to Know Before You Go

Review the customs laws

It is essential that you know exactly what the requirements are in the specific country that you will be visiting because customs laws vary greatly by location. Unfortunately, some countries do not even allow any foreign dogs to enter. Some of the ones that do may require a quarantine process of up to several months.

The quarantine will force you to be separated from your dog for quite some time, so be prepared if the country has that requirement. It can also be a challenge to travel with more than one dog, so check to see if there is a limit to the number of pets you can bring with you. In general, most western countries will allow dogs, but you will have to provide proof that they have been given, and are current on, their rabies vaccination.

Give your dog a checkup

If your dog has not already received all of their vaccinations, now would be a good time to do so because some countries will ask for their shot records. A quick visit to your veterinarian for a checkup is also a good way to discuss your concerns and make sure that your dog is fit to travel. You may want to ask your veterinarian to write a note stating that your dog is in good health and has had all of the appropriate vaccinations.

Find pet friendly travel accommodations

Finding the proper travel accommodations for your dog can also be tricky. If you are visiting another country by car, then you can ask if the car rental company allows pets. If you are traveling by plane, then it will depend on the airline, when you are traveling, and which country you are going to.

Certain airlines do not accept pets at all, so your first objective is to find a pet friendly airline. Traveling with pet cargo in high temperatures can be risky, so some airlines will not accept them at all during the summer months. Also, check the requirements of the airport where you will arrive abroad, because some airports in other countries do not accept pets or they may require that you provide them with advance notice that you will be arriving with a pet.

Obtain pet friendly living accommodations

Once you have made it through customs, you will need to find living accommodations that accept pets. You will probably have your accommodations ready before you arrive, but make sure that you let the hotel, hostel, or apartment management know that you will have your dog with you.

Make sure your dog is comfortable

As you go on your journey, consider the mental and physical comfort of your dog. Do the best you can do to let your dog know that traveling will be safe, fun, and comfortable. Invest in a quality carrier for your dog, because they may be in there for a while. Keep your dog calm when dealing with customs officials so they will know that your pet can handle the transition.

Planning is key when it comes to traveling with your pet. Everything really depends on where you are going, so be sure to understand the customs laws before you arrive. Visit your veterinarian for a checkup and vaccinations, buy a nice carrier for your dog, and let them know what to expect before you leave. Have a safe and happy trip!

Have you ever traveled abroad with your dog? What was it like? Share your experience with us in the comments.

The post How To Travel Abroad With Your Dog appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Dog lovers have made their desire for dog-friendly vehicles known to car manufacturers. Vehicles designed with dogs in mind will have features that a typical car cannot match. These dog-friendly features can include a built-in kennel, spill-proof water bowl, stowable ramp, and even a cooling system designed with your dog in mind. This type of vehicle is certainly one way to go…

Unfortunately, buying a new dog-friendly vehicle is often costly. Here, we offer considerations so that you can find or create a vehicle that suits your dog’s unique needs.

Consider These Points

Dealing with Fur

While some car seat materials resist dog hair better than others, the best way to keep dog hair off of your seats is to groom your dog. Brush your dog’s coat well before you take her for a ride, and brush her hair very well if you are about to take her on a lengthy road trip. Use a vacuum or lint roller to remove dog hair that does find its way onto your seats. You may also buy a dog seat cover to help protect your seats.

Potty Problems

Your dog may forget his potty training on the open road, especially if he is not used to riding in a car. Dog seat covers can help protect your seats from an “accident,” and most are machine-washable. If he does go on the seat, then standard cleaning products can handle the mess, and you should try to always have some in your car. Walking your dog before a car trip (and frequently during longer road trips) is recommended as an extremely helpful preventative measure.

Keeping Dogs Calm and Safe

Although most dogs are calm during car rides, this may not be the case with yours. She may not stop barking, may attempt to jump into your lap while you’re driving, or move wildly around the car interior. You should attempt to correct this behavior through conditioning and training. The goal is to stay calm and assertive and to let your dog know that a car is a safe place where she can relax.

Carriers or crates can be potentially good ways to drive your dog around, but you have to make sure that you buy the correct size. Too small and your pooch will be incredibly uncomfortable as they try to squish in. Too big and they can be tossed around and banged against the sides of the carrier. Neither one sounds very pleasant. It’s wise to strap carriers down so that they don’t go flying whenever the car makes sudden movements. 

Avoid the Dog Clown Car

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and luckily so do vehicles. Make sure that your chosen vehicle is large enough to comfortably accommodate both your dog and a dog carrier. Don’t forget that often times you can manipulate the seats of your vehicle to create extra space.

Cars designed to be dog-friendly are excellent conveniences for dog lovers, but they are not the only path to a satisfying driving experience with your dog. Take steps that are within your budget to acquire a vehicle that suits your dog, or to modify a vehicle that you already own.

Safety first! Have your mastered the discipline of always crating your dog for car rides?

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