Travelling with Fido

Everyone loves to travel, including Fido. So as you pack up your family for your Holiday travels, here a a few tips for Fido:

1. DO remember his toys. Traveling is stressful for everyone and having Fido's favorite toy will help reduce his stress levels.
2. DO remember chew toys. When a dog gets anxious or bored it chews. A familiar chew toy or treat and Fido is more likely to ignore all the tempting new items in your room, like those antique chair legs. (Things that guest dogs have chewed at our Inn include chairs, antique dressers, wastebaskets, pillows, plants, curtains, towels, electric cords and phone books.)
3. DO remember his leash. Fido may be perfectly trained for you, but if you leave Fido unattended in your room and there is an emergency, your Innkeeper will need a leash to get Fido to safety.
4. DO bring copies of Fido's up-to-date vaccinations. Just as you get snippy and short-tempered when you are tired and stressed, Fido gets nippy and short-tempered too when he's tired, overexcited or insecure in new surroundings. You will probably never need them, but if a playful nip breaks the skin, those records could help keep Fido out of doggy jail.
5. DO spend time with Fido. If Fido's used to walking at a certain time then its better for everyone to keep that schedule. Regular walks and paying attention to the "Hey - I Gotta Go" dance will keep Fido content. Dogs react to different water and foods just like humans, and chances are Fido will be getting a few more table treats during the Holidays, which might just throw his whole system off.
6. DO inform the Innkeeper if Fido has an accident. Honesty is the best policy and an upfront "Gee, this happened in the room" is so much better than housekeeping walking into a mess. A wet spot on a carpet that sits will destroy the underlying wood and might result in the whole floor and carpet being destroyed. Likewise, doggy toothmarks on an 18th century cedar blanket chest can end up with you being charged the full value of the antique.

So, when you travel with Fido, bring his stuff, bring his treats, and give him the love and attention he wants. and he will repay you with more love and affection than you could ever imagine.

Have safe travels this Holiday Season!