With careful preparation, everyone can enjoy a dog friendly vacation. You can take you dog with you for a short overnight or as long as you like - just plan ahead. First, you will want to decide where you will go. Another important part of the planning process is to decide when to go on your trip. The next part of your trip planning will be choosing a place to stay. Many hotels and other pet friendly accommodations around the world welcome well behaved dogs - most without restrictionshttp://www.dogfriendly.com/server/travel/guides/us/us.shtml. The final decision for your vacation plan will be how you will travel to your destination. Many people do fly with their pets but often families drive to their destination with their dog happily in the car with them. Before you go you will want to pack Fido's bag and prepare his dog crate, if he has one. It is also important to identify emergency veterinary services in the area where you will be staying in case anything happenshttp://www.dogfriendly.com/server/travel/guides/us/us.shtml.

Don't forget to pack your own suitcases, and have a great trip!

Would your dog pick the same place you would to go on vacation? Maybe, maybe not. Luckily, there are thousands of resorts, hotels and vacation destinations in the US alone that can make you both happyhttp://www.beneful.com/wagworld/?DCMP=KNC-BEN-T13-Goog-WWSrch&HBX. Find a pet friendly destination that is also fun for you. Depending upon your interests, you may want to travel to the beach or perhaps to the mountains. Some choose the city, others go camping. The most important thing to remember is that - with some restrictions of course, you can bring your dog with you anywhere you would want to go on vacation.

Depending on your preferences and your free time you'll pick a month or a season to go to your vacation spot. Your pet may not be a cold weather dog, or perhaps a hot climate would be hazardous - consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pets safety in different climates, environments, or seasons.http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/taking-your-dog-on-vacation-in-comfort-and-style-1100285.html.

You can stay in a hotel, at a resort or rent a vacation home. Another option is to rent an RV and take a road trip. There are many pet friendly places to stay with your dog all over the country and the world. Most hotels either require a pet deposit or charge a small ($25.00) pet fee, which can vary. Some hotels do have restrictions on the size of the dog, so confirm individual pet policies upon booking your reservations. In addition, many cafes and restaurants allow you to bring your well behaved dog to your (outdoor) table to join you at mealtime.

While many dogs can and do fly, you will want to consider your pet's temperament, age and overall health when determining if this is the right choice for them. Dogs that are small enough to travel in a carrier that fits under the aircraft seat can ride in the cabin with you, with proper documentation and if you book ahead. If possible, do not fly your (larger) dog in the cargo area of the aircraft - as this is not a space designed for them and safety concerns exist. The ASPCA does not recommend that any pet fly in the lower, cargo area of an aircraft http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/air-travel-tips.html. Consult with your veterinarian with any questions. If your pet is better off in the car, then they will accompany you on a vacation that is closer to home or perhaps your vacation is a road trip itself.http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS121636+23-Jun-2009+PRN20090623.

Fido needs a suitcase too. Of course, if your dog is crate trained, traveling will be a breeze as his 'bedroom' is coming along on the trip. In fact many hotels prefer and some require dog crates. For car travel, a crate is a safe way to transport your pet as well. For airline travel, only FAA certified pet crates are allowed. You will also want to measure out, and place in a dry, air tight container, the proper amount of food for the duration of your vacation, unless you are sure that your dog's regular food wil be available for purchase at your destination. Be sure to carry water and a water bowl and take plenty of hydration and 'business' breaks during the trip to your destination. Other pet supplies you may wish to include in your dog's bag will be; leash(es), harness or extra collar, dog bed or blanket, chew toys or 'kong', healthy dog treats, dog bowls for food and water, a doggie first aid kit and any dog medicines that your pet may be currently taking or may need during the trip.

1. Ensure Your dog has proper ID tags, with local destination contacts. Proper identification, including microchipping can help authorities reunite you with your pet if you are separated.
2. Identify emergency veterinary services and other pet care providers near your destination
3. Carry updated vaccination records