Summertime brings sunshine, longer days, and for many families, the perfect excuse to pack a bag and head out on vacation. But if you're a pet owner, travel planning often comes with one important question: What about the dog (or cat)?
Whether you’re planning to bring your pet along for the ride or looking for safe, reliable care while you’re away, there are a few key things to consider before you zip that suitcase shut. Traveling with pets can be a wonderful bonding experience—but it’s not always the right choice for every pet or every trip. Here’s what you need to know to make the best decision for your furry family member.
Should You Bring Your Pet?
The first thing to evaluate is whether your destination and travel method are truly pet-friendly. Not all pets are great travelers—and that’s okay! Some dogs thrive on new experiences and love tagging along, but others may get stressed out by long car rides, unfamiliar environments, or changes in routine.
Start by asking yourself a few questions:
- Will your pet enjoy and feel comfortable on this trip?
- Is your destination welcoming to pets (hotels, parks, restaurants)?
- How long will you be gone, and how often will your pet be left alone?
- Does your pet have any health conditions that might make travel harder?
If the answer to any of these questions gives you pause, it may be kinder—and safer—to explore alternative care options, like professional pet boarding.
Travel Tips for Bringing Pets
If your pet is coming with you, preparation is key. Just like people, pets need the right gear and support to travel comfortably. Before you leave, double-check that your pet is up to date on all vaccinations and preventative medications, especially flea, tick, and heartworm treatments. If you’re crossing state lines or flying, you may need proof of rabies vaccination and a health certificate from your veterinarian.
Here are some travel tips to help your trip go smoothly:
- Pack a pet travel bag with food, bowls, medications, leash, ID tags, waste bags, toys, and bedding.
- Use a secure carrier or harness to keep your pet safe in the car or airplane.
- Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours during road trips for potty breaks and a chance to stretch.
- Keep them cool and hydrated—never leave a pet unattended in a parked car, especially in summer heat.
- Stick to your routine as much as possible, especially feeding times and walks.
Flying with pets requires extra planning. Be sure to check airline policies early—some only allow pets in-cabin under certain size and carrier restrictions, and others may require pets to fly in cargo. Remember that air travel can be stressful for animals, and not every pet is a good candidate for it.
When Boarding is the Better Option
For many pets—and pet parents—boarding can be the most stress-free solution. When you choose a trusted facility like Fieldstone Animal Inn, your pet gets to enjoy their own vacation, full of enrichment, attention, and a comfortable environment tailored to their needs.
Boarding is especially helpful if:
- Your travel destination isn't pet-friendly
- Your pet gets anxious with travel or change
- You’ll be on the go all day without time for your pet
- You want peace of mind that your pet is safe, social, and well cared for
At Fieldstone Animal Inn, we treat every guest like family. Our lodging services go beyond just a place to sleep. With spacious play yards, cozy accommodations, and add-on enrichment activities like cuddle time, training, and puzzle games, your pet can stay active, mentally stimulated, and well-loved while you’re away.
Our staff is trained to recognize and respond to your pet’s unique needs. We maintain a clean, calm, and secure environment and offer 24/7 supervision to ensure your pet is happy and healthy during their stay.
Why Summer Planning Matters
Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for travel—and that means it’s also a peak season for pet boarding. Many facilities, especially those with high standards and a loyal customer base, fill up weeks (or even months) in advance. Waiting too long could mean your preferred dates are unavailable.
That’s why we encourage our clients to plan ahead and reserve your pet’s boarding stay early. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a two-week adventure, securing your pet’s spot ahead of time means one less thing to worry about.
We also offer meet-and-greet evaluations for first-time boarders, which help ensure your dog is a great fit for our environment and receives personalized care. These visits allow us to get to know your pet and help them feel comfortable before their official stay begins.
Give Your Pet a Vacation, Too
Your pet is part of the family—and they deserve to feel safe, relaxed, and cared for while you’re away. Whether that means coming along for the adventure or staying behind at a trusted boarding facility, the most important thing is making a plan that works for both of you.
If you’re still deciding what’s best for your pet, our team is happy to answer your questions and help you explore your options. At Fieldstone Animal Inn, we offer expert care, enrichment, and peace of mind—so you can travel with confidence.Heading out of town this summer?
Contact Fieldstone today to reserve your pet’s spot and let them enjoy a vacation of their own!
