Great big Canadian adventures with your four-footed friends
The look of dejection on your dog’s face as you drop them off at the kennel before setting out on a summer vacation is tough – but it’s probably easier than taking a pet with you, right?
Not if you prepare and do a little research. Travelling with a pet does have its own challenges, but here are some tips to make the most of your great big adventure together.
Purrfect Tip No. 1
You may dream of hiking the Rockies with your dog, but first ask the vet if your pet’s health, age and obedience are up to it. Some dogs find constant change stressful.
Purrfect Tip No. 2
Update vaccinations for heart worm, Lyme disease (depending on your destination), rabies, distemper and kennel cough. If your dog takes medications, pack more than you need. Also consider pet insurance to cover the unexpected. CAA Members get 13.5%* off new policies. Call 1-833-323-2456 or visit caaneo.ca/insurance/pet-insurance for a quote.
Purrfect Tip No. 3
Confirm your pet-friendly accommodation has what you need – and they know exactly who’s coming to visit. Some offer pet-sitting and enclosed runs, others allow pets if the rules are followed. Your CAA Travel Consultant can help plan a pet-friendly experience. Visit bookcaa.ca/agents or call 1-866-279-7790.
Purrfect Tip No. 4
How happy is your pet in the car? Take your furball out on a few excursions to make sure they enjoy the ride. Many pets experience car anxiety if their only regular trips are to the vet.
Purrfect Tip No. 5
Your pet should be crate-trained before you go. Get expert advice when buying a leak-proof, ventilated, and comfortable crate. (Some pets may prefer a specialized pet seatbelt.) Check out other ways to save on supplies at caaneo.ca/rewards/.
Purrfect Tip No. 6
Do not take pets into wilderness areas off leash – your recall skills may be great, but there are poisonous plants, predators and dangerous terrains to consider. Always carry water as natural streams can contain agricultural runoff and tummy-upsetting bugs. If you get a dog backpack to share the load, the contents should not be more than one-third of their body weight.
Travel across Canada with the help of CAA Travel
Explore somewhere new in Canada this season with your fluffy best friend. Go online to book a hotel or flight, or car rental (don’t forget Rental Vehicle Damage Insurance).
You can also go online for out-of-province travel insurance, as OHIP doesn't cover everything once you leave Ontario. CAA Members save up to 20% on CAA Travel Insurance!
Let us plan your next vacation, keep your family protected with travel, auto and pet insurance, and help you save with CAA Rewards.