So, you have been sitting at your computer researching for your next family vacation and you hear some panting. You look over and there are two big brown eyes staring wistfully. You mull the dilemma. Should you bring Scotia, the long time loyal family pup along, or does he again get left behind?

There are some alternatives. While you and the rest of the family are having a good time frolicking in the surf, you could board or have a pet sitter look after him. If you do then do not be surprised upon your return if he holds a grudge. Being the diplomat you let the family decide. It is a resounding, “He goes.”

Before departing, there are some considerations, especially if this is his first extended holiday. The resort selection is a major consideration. Although, resort areas like Hilton Head Island with its dog parks and relaxed beach regulations are extremely pet friendly, there is not an abundance of pet friendly accommodations. To get the best options, you will need to plan early.

Just as you plan your trip, there are steps to prepare for Scotia’s journey.

Preparation

1. Get Scotia acclimated to car travel.

2. Get copies of medical records with an up to date rabies vaccine certificate. Check with your vet regarding heart worm, flea/tick, and Bortadella preventative. If your pup does not travel well, ask your vet about using Scullcap and Valerian tablets (a herbal combination to combat anxiety, excitability, jitters, and travel sickness) a much better choice than using tranquilizers.

3. Consider micro-chipping. This is a pet monitoring system. It is painless procedure where a readable chip containing the pup’s necessary information is inserted under the skin.

4. Get your vet’s contact information. You should also ask if he or she knows of any vets at your destination.

5. Create a pet identification tag. This should have your pets name, address, and phone number. A simple method we employ is to use a film canister attached to the collar. This way we can use the local resort address. We fold a dollar bill into it, to cover phone calls.

6. Build a pet first aid kit. This kit should have gauze rolls and pads, scissors, tweezers, cotton balls, adhesive tape, silver nitrate, and pet sunscreen.

7. Design a Missing Dog Poster. All you need for this is an 8x11 sheet with your pup’s photo. Leave room to write the facts. It is precautionary should anything happen.

8. Get an extra collar and lead. This can come in handy should you need to tether your pet.

9. Find an old sheet incase you need to cover furniture. If you use a crate, this can also be used to cover the crate incase your pup exhibits some travel anxiety

10. Beach towel for drying pup after his swims.

11. Gather the necessities