14 Reasons You Should Leave Your Pets at Home on Your Next Vacation
Vacations are supposed to be a time for you to get away from the daily grind, relax and recharge, but as pet owners, we often find ourselves wrestling with the question: “Would you like to bring your furry friend?” The thought of having your pet by your side sounds cute, but that idea can come with a lot of challenges.
Traveling with pets isn’t as simple as tossing their favorite toy in the bag. There are reasons why leaving your pets at home might be the best decision for everyone involved, from pet-unfriendly destinations to their comfort and safety. So let’s look at why they might want to stay home.
Your Pet’s Routine Matters
Pets are creatures of habit. Unpredictable travel plans can lead to stress and anxiety for those traveling across oceans and disrupt their daily schedule. Dogs and cats in particular do well on routine. They like their meals, their walks, and their naps on a predictable schedule.
Travel Stress
The idea of taking your pet on a plane or a long car ride sounds fun, but it’s not always so. Motion sickness, new environments, and loud noise can be overwhelming. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says many pets are stressed when traveling and may pant or shake excessively.
Not All Destinations Are Pet Friendly
That’s why not all vacation spots accommodate your pets. You could end up in a logistical nightmare from hotels with strict no pet policies to attractions that don’t allow animals. It could mean your pet is spending most of their time in a hotel room or kennel, and that’s not fair to them or you.
Health and Safety
Your pet could be exposed to many health risks when traveling: unfamiliar parasites or illnesses. For example, in some areas, there are more tick-borne diseases that your pet is not protected against. Keeping them at home could protect them from these dangers.
Access To Veterinary Care
Finding a trusted veterinarian in an unfamiliar location would be tricky if something went wrong during your trip. Things get even more complicated if there is a language barrier or unfamiliar medical facilities.
No Pet-Friendly Activities
Perhaps you enjoy going to museums, theme parks, or fine dining restaurants on your vacation, but these aren’t exactly pet friendly places. You may have to leave your pet behind when you go exploring, and your pet could end up feeling left out—or worse—lonely.
Climate Change May Be Tough for Them
Would you take your thick-coated husky to a tropical beach for a summer getaway? Would your short-nosed pug manage the chilly mountain air? Your pet can be uncomfortable or endangered in extreme weather conditions.
Pricey Accommodations
There is often an additional pet fee or deposit at hotels or rentals that permit pets. It can also be a challenge to find a place that truly welcomes animals.
Less Attention
Throughout your vacation, you will be quite occupied sightseeing, relaxing, and participating in other activities. This can make your pet feel neglected if they’re used to being the center of your world at home.
Restrictive Transportation Rules
Rules vary by airlines and trains for pet travel. Some only let small animals in the cabin, while others demand that pets be in cargo, which can be an uncomfortable and stressful experience for them. It’s also a hassle because of strict documentation requirements.
Pets Left Alone in Hotels Can Be Problematic
Pet-friendly hotels usually have a policy of never leaving animals alone in a room. This could mean cutting your plans short or scrambling to find a pet sitter in a new city if you plan an outing where pets aren’t allowed.
Personalized Care or Boarding Facilities
At home, a reputable boarding facility or someone you trust to watch your pet should do the trick. Some pet sitters go the extra mile to provide personalized care so your furry friend knows he or she is loved.
Accidents Happen
Pets, even the most well behaved, can have accidents. Traveling with pets can sometimes lead to expensive damages, whether it’s scratching hotel furniture or an unexpected mess, and an awkward conversation with the hotel manager.
Familiar Surroundings Are Best
Your pet probably feels safest and happiest in their own space. They like the coziness of home, their favorite spot on the couch, and familiar scents. It’s hard to replicate that in a vacation environment.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
