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When we traveled a lot we did everything humanly possible to make  the trip a good one, for humans and beagles alike.   But I wish we found this guide on http://about.dogs.com a long time ago.  It would have saved us a whole lot of trouble.  There are plenty of options to consider when you take your beagle with you especially in the traveling phase of your trip.

Things to consider before you go.

“Do you know how to travel with your dog? Traveling with your dog can be loads of fun if you make all the right arrangements. However, poor planning can really ruin the vacation for everyone. If you think it would be best for your dog to stay behind, then look for a pet sitter or find a kennel where you can board your dog. If you have decided that your furry companion should be part of your trip, let the planning begin. Start by keeping a collar with current identification on your dog at all times. A microchip may also be beneficial for extra security. Before you travel, your dog should have basic training so he will be well-behaved during the trip. Then, plan the transportation, accommodations and daily activities. Learning how to travel with your dog can make the experience less stressful and a lot of fun! “

In the past we just loaded up our beagles packed our bags threw planning to the wind and just headed for our destination.  We never considered leaving our dogs behind so the idea of a pet sitter wasn’t an option..   We were so lucky that Hunter and Bubbles didn’t get away from us because we didn’t have them chipped and one good scent and those little guys would have bounded off never to be seen again.. And as for the well trained part.   I guess this author hasn’t owned a beagle hehe. Well let’s just say  getting a beagle to do anything that wasn’t his idea in the first place can be a bit of a challenge.  Some call it stubborn, but we like to think of it more like independently minded .

Planes, trains and automobiles…. actually just planes and automobiles, no trains sorry

Air travel. 

The author pretty much cautions against it if it can be avoided and we tend to agree.  But if you have no other travel options she still offers these suggestions

“Air travel for dogs is not always a great idea. Though canines are not cargo to us pet parents, they are usually considered such by the airlines. The cargo hold does not make for a pleasant travel experience, even for relaxed dogs. This is not to say that flying is not an option, just that it is not ideal. Small dog owners are in luck, though. Some airlines will allow you to bring your pet in a carrier if it can fit under the seat in front of you. Learn the finer details of air travel with dogs so you can be fully informed before you book a flight. Pet-loving entrepreneurs have been developing pet-friendly airlines that may actually be affordable. One such company is Pet Airways, a pet-only (no human passengers) airline that allows pets to fly in the main cabin rather than cargo. However, these flights are only available in a limited number of cities. Until these types of airlines are more accessible, many of us will have to make do with the rules or scrape up the dough to charter a plane.”

By car.

We always chose this route partly because of the cost of plane tickets and transporting our beagles by air but also because…..

Happiness is a beagle sticking his noise out the window and inhaling all the goodness the open road has to offer!

If you haven’t taken your beagle out in the car much except for the occasional trip to the vet he might get anxious and make your trip less fun and more complicated.  So you better start taking him out to a lot more fun places like  dog parks, or woods or any place he can enjoy himself well before you leave.  We want him to see the car as a cool place to be and that car rides mean good things are down the road!

“Some dogs have anxiety over riding in cars. The more positive your dog’s automobile experiences are, the more likely he will enjoy the rides. If your dog only rides in the car for vet visits, and he dislikes the vet, his anxiety is understandable. Try taking him for short, frequent car rides that end up at the park, dog supply store (where he will get a toy or treat), or another pleasant place.

Sometimes no matter what precautions you take your baby will still feel scared and anxious in the car but you still have options though they might be  your first choice… more like a last resort.

“If your dog does not adjust to the car, then a road trip is not a good option. If you must bring your dog for a long car ride, ask your vet about possible anti-anxiety medications that can make the trip a bit easier on everyone.”

I’m not sure if the all these precautions are really necessary in fact they might be over kill but if you might want to look them over just for sake of being more safe than sorry.  Now I would make frequent stops to let our dogs go potty and get some sniffs in.  But plotting out all the nearby vet hospitals near each point along your route might be a bit much.

“Plot rest stops along the way while traveling with your dog, and plan to stop every 3-5 hours to allow your dog to relieve himself, drink water and stretch his legs (more or less depending on your dog’s needs). Make a list of several veterinary hospitals that are easily accessible from your route, preferably within one hour’s drive from any given point. Check that they will be open during your travel.”

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