Picture this: you’ve booked the ideal vacation spot, mapped out the finest restaurants, and packed all your bags. Then all of a sudden, reality strikes–how can you leave your 70-pound Golden Retriever behind?
The good news is you don’t ever have to worry about leaving your furry friend behind! The demand for pet travel options has never been higher, with recent studies showing that 78% of American pet owners travel with their pets each year. With proper planning, your next adventure can be a tail-wagging success.
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Visit the Veterinarian
Before you start packing their favorite toys, schedule your dog’s annual checkup with the veterinarian at least two weeks before the trip. This visit ensures your dog is healthy, vaccinations are up to date, and most importantly that you obtain the proper health certificates needed to travel with your pet. It’s critical to research your destination’s requirements when booking the vacation, allowing ample time to receive all documentation.
Prepare your Dog for Travel
Due to their size, large dogs tend to experience more stress during travel. First, start by practicing long car rides in the weeks before departure. This will allow them to adapt to what being in the car for an extended time is like. To enhance their comfort, bring their favorite toys or special treats that create positive experiences as you practice these mock travel days. The goal is simple: transform your car from a stress zone to an adventure vehicle.
Pack the Essentials
Owners need to pack strategically to prevent any travel pitfalls for large dogs. Prepare a must-have checklist that includes:
- Leash, collar with ID tag, and waste bags
- Durable travel crate and collapsible food/water bowls
- Food for the entire trip (plus extra) and any medications
- First aid kit with emergency vet contacts
- Comfort items like toys to ease anxiety
- Optional: Pet travel insurance for added peace of mind
Road Trip Checklist
While you are driving with large dogs, it’s key to ensure their safety. Prepare to make stops every couple of hours to check up on your dog by letting them stretch, providing food and water, and allowing them to go to the bathroom. Be sure you own a travel crate that’s designed for your dog’s size that easily fits in your vehicle.
Air Travel Requirements
Flying with large dogs can be a hurdle that small dog owners don’t have to face. Large dogs are likely to be flying below deck in the cargo area, which can be stressful for both the owner and dog during the plane ride.
It’s smart to reach out to the airline in advance to understand their policies and avoid any miscommunication. Many airlines have breed restrictions, additional fees, airline-approved crates, health certificates, and sometimes can suspend pet cargo during dangerous weather periods.
Choosing Pet-Friendly Hotels
Not all “pet-friendly” hotels accommodate large dogs. While small dogs have the advantage of meeting most hotel pet policies, larger breeds often face weight or breed restrictions due to their size.
Calling ahead to confirm the hotel’s pet policy is essential before booking your stay. Be specific with your inquiries about amenities you want available to receive the experience you are looking for— be sure to inquire about ground-floor availability, as well as designated pet walking areas.
The Sonesta PAWS Program
Sonesta’s award-winning PAWS (Pets Are Welcome at Sonesta) program provides a genuine welcome for all well-mannered pets with no breed or weight restrictions. Sonesta hotels are ideal for large dogs because they will never be turned away at the door just for their size.
When you check in at the lobby, your dog gets a warm welcome with treats and access to pet-friendly rooms that are specifically designed for their comfort. PAWS allows up to two pets per room, which makes it perfect for multi-dog families. The program provides high-quality bedding and a variety of pet treats and amenities, subject to availability. We encourage our guests to contact the individual hotel or central reservations at 1.800.SONESTA (766.3782), prior to their arrival.
Handling Your Dog During Travel
Before those long rides, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise to make them feel more relaxed. Traveling to new destinations can cause large dogs to experience anxiety, which makes it more challenging for everyone around them.
During travel, stick to a routine that will feel familiar to them—maintain the same walking and feeding times as much as possible.
Plan Ahead
Research local leash laws and pets’ policies in public environments for your given destination. Some parks and beaches don’t allow dogs, while other areas welcome them with open arms. Forming a list of pet-friendly attractions before arriving at your destination can save time and frustration. Consider a shorter version of the same for any overnight stays enroute to your final destination.
Plan according to the weather conditions, large dogs are easily heat exhausted due to their size. They require plenty of water, rest, and may need protective clothing depending on the location and climate.
Ready for Your Next Trip?
Traveling with large dogs requires more preparation, but the memories you make are worth every moment of planning. Nothing beats the joy of experiencing new adventures with your dog alongside your family. With the right pet-friendly hotel, your dog can enjoy the perfect travel experience.
Next time you bring your best buddy to a Sonesta hotel, tag us in your photos on social for a chance to get featured. Sonesta hotel social media channels such as @SonestaHotels and @TheRoyalSonesta will be featuring our four-legged guests all month long in August in celebration of #NationalPetMonth.
Insider Tip for Sonesta Travel Pass Members
Unlike many hotel chains that charge daily pet fees, Sonesta’s pet fee is per stay (not per night), making longer vacations with your furry friend become even more rewarding. Learn more at https://travelpass.sonesta.com/
Disclaimer: The suggested itinerary and points of interest are provided for informational and planning purposes only. Guests are encouraged to independently verify opening hours, availability, travel times, and any potential changes prior to visiting. The inclusion of any businesses, attractions, or destinations does not imply affiliation with or endorsement by Sonesta or its affiliates. Sonesta makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and assumes no responsibility for any inconvenience or loss arising from the use of this information.
