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The holiday season is typically the one time during the year when the entire family can get together, but sometimes we’re forced to leave everyone’s favorite family member at home when traveling: our furry friends. Maybe the hotel doesn’t accommodate pets, your pet gets a little antsy flying or can’t sit still on a road trip. But there are a quite a few ways to make traveling a little easier with them. Heidi Ganahal, the CEO and founder of Camp Bow Bow, and Heather Owen, the owner of Camp Bow Wow and Home Buddies Avondale gave AFM their top tips to make Fido and the family more comfortable this traveling season.

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1. Time to fly: If your pet is going to fly with you, it’s essential that you check carrier size restrictions beforehand. Keep in mind that small dogs can usually sit with you and larger dogs will fly in the cargo section in a crate.     

2. Carrier comfort: Let your pet sleep in the bed or crate they’ll be calling home for your travels at least a month before leaving. Traveling to an unknown destination is scary enough on its own.      

3. Buckle up: Your pet needs a seatbelt too if they’re not in a carrier. Dog seatbelts give them freedom to move around, but they’ll be safe in case there is a car accident.     

4. Feeding time: Pets can easily get carsick. Feed them no less than five or six hours before traveling to avoid cleaning up a mess.    

5. Hospitable hotel: Even though a hotel is “pet friendly,” this doesn’t mean pets can stay in the room alone. Consider a nearby Camp Bow Wow doggie day care facility to avoid this problem. 

6. Home sweet home: Bring their favorite things from home: dishes, blankets, toys or anything that can comfort them.   

7. Watch them via camera when away: Every room in Camp Bow Wow is monitored by a camera, so parents can be rest assured their animal is safe and sound. 

8. Find a trustworthy sitter: If you simply need someone to check in on your animal at home, Camp Bow Wow’s “Home Buddies” service is perfect to have a trustworthy sitter walk and play with them.