Traveling can be a fun adventure for both you and your puppy, but many new dog owners may find themselves concerned about the comfort of their pet during the journey. Oftentimes, it can be hard to decide on taking dogs on flights vs. road trips. Flying and driving with your dog both have some pros and cons. Read on to learn more.
Flying with your puppy
One of the biggest perks of flying with your puppy is that it’s a much shorter trip. Chances are that your puppy will not like being in their crate for an extended period of time, and if your flight is only a few hours, it will be a quicker and more painless venture than keeping your dog in a moving vehicle for much longer. Another pro of flying with your puppy is the cost. When taking a road trip, expenses like gas, food and hotels can add up quickly. It’s likely that driving with your dog could be just as expensive as flying, if not more so.
One of the negative aspects of taking a puppy on a flight rather than a road trip is that most airlines require that your dog stay in their crate under the seat in front of you the whole time. That can be difficult for your puppy if it’s a longer flight. Not to mention the fact that if your puppy has to go to the bathroom during the flight, they will typically have to go on a pad or towel in the crate. Along with that, puppies may get nervous on plane rides, which could be traumatic for them.
Driving with your puppy
Driving with your puppy can be less stressful for you and the puppy in certain ways compared to flying. For starters, having your pet right by your side can alleviate the anxiety of whether your pet is comfortable and happy. It also allows you and your puppy to bond more, and it can be an excellent opportunity to spend time together.
The main problem with going on the road with your puppy is that it’s a longer trip. Sometimes puppies can get impatient being stuck in the car for a long period of time, so make regular stops for bathroom breaks and exercise for your puppy. Another potential issue is finding a hotel or motel that allows pets. Many spots do not allow animals, so it may be a good idea to find an overnight rest stop ahead of time.
If you do decide to take your puppy on a road trip, make sure you stock up on necessities like food, medicine and a coat or jacket (if the climate is cold) to ensure your puppy is as comfortable as possible.
Get more puppy travel tips
Deciding whether to take dogs on flights vs. road trips presents a unique set of pros and cons, so it’s up to you to determine what’s best for you and your dog. Flying with your dog can be a hassle, but it will be a much quicker experience. On the other hand, driving with your dog can be a fun adventure, but it will be a longer journey. Taking puppies on flights or road trips might seem daunting, but as long as you are prepared, it doesn’t have to be a difficult or unpleasant experience. For more information about traveling with puppies, reach out to the experts at D&G Kennels today.