As a pet owner, you may feel guilty leaving your pet dogs at home or with friends in order to go on vacation, so you decide to take them along. You are not alone. In fact, 25 million dog owners take their pups on vacation. Now, a great way to vacay with your dog is going on a cruise, since it’s relaxing and fun. If it’s your first time taking your dog on a cruise ship, it can be a bit overwhelming planning for the trip, from what items to bring to booking a cruise that welcomes pets. It doesn’t have to be, though. Here are the top things you should note when taking your pet dog on a cruise holiday.
Find A Pet-Friendly Cruise
Most cruise ships always accept service dogs, but many of them are not equipped to handle canine passengers. So you need to find a cruise ship that allows pets. There’s the Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, which allows pets on its transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton. There’s also The Mercury, which hosts the Canine Cruise along Chicago’s Riverwalk in Illinois. If you want to vacation out of the country, you can book a cruise on the Le Boat. It offers terrific dog-friendly cruises in France, England, Scotland, Italy, Canada, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. Keep in mind, though, that these are separate and localized outings, so you’ll need to choose one destination and prepare the necessary paperwork before you and your dog leave for your cruise vacation. After finding a cruise, it is best to contact them and book early, so that you’ll be able to prepare their requirements for bringing your pet.
Go For A Check-up
Pet healthcare is such a priority that the market is projected to reach $70.1 billion in 2026. As a responsible pet owner, you must ensure that your dog is always healthy, especially before leaving to go on a holiday. When going on a cruise with your dog, consulting the veterinarian should be the first step. This is because you need to ensure that your pet dog is healthy enough for travel and current on his or her vaccinations. Make sure to take the shot records or health certifications with you because most cruises require them. Also, share your vacation destination with your vet, so they can inform you on how to protect your pet from potential risks in that region and give you tips on what protective products to bring for your dog. Since most dogs get seasick, consider asking your vet about seasickness medication for your pet– it’s a must if you want to have an enjoyable time at sea with your fur baby.
Provide Proper Identification
One of the things most dog owners worry about when traveling is losing their pet. In the event that your dog gets away from you during the cruise, you can increase the chances of recovery by making sure that he or she can be identified. You can bring and use a sturdy leash and a collar with identification tags with the dog’s name, your name, and your contact number. You may also consider a permanent form of identification, such as a microchip for your pet dog.
Your vacation can be a lot more fun if you enjoy it with your beloved pet dog. Ensure a stress-free cruise with your dog by considering the tips above, and have a great time on the water with your canine companion.
Pack for Your Dog
Just like you, your dog will need some essentials for the trip. Make sure to pack enough food and treats for the entire duration of the cruise. Don’t forget to bring any necessary medications and your dog’s favorite toys or blankets to provide comfort and familiarity in the unfamiliar environment. It’s also a good idea to pack some cleaning supplies, just in case of accidents.
On-Board Accommodations for Dogs
As mentioned earlier, some cruise lines offer on-board accommodations for dogs. This may include designated dog walking areas, dog parks, and even special dog-friendly cabins. It’s important to research these options and book them in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly. When on board, make sure to follow all rules and regulations when it comes to your dog’s behavior and clean up after them.
Excursions and Ports of Call
When planning excursions and ports of call, it’s important to consider your dog’s needs. Some ports of call may not be dog-friendly or may require your dog to be in a carrier at all times. It’s important to research these options in advance and plan accordingly. If you plan to leave your dog in the cabin during an excursion, make sure to leave them with plenty of food, water, and toys to keep them occupied.
Conclusion
Cruising with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but it does require some extra planning and preparation. By choosing the right cruise line, preparing your dog for the journey, packing the necessary items, taking advantage of on-board accommodations, and planning excursions carefully, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip for both you and your dog.
