Create memories, not chaos, on your next pet-friendly vacation.
With the dog days of summer coming to an end, it’s time to start looking forward to fall road trips! Cooler weather and less congested roads create a more comfortable experience for our furry friends. We are pro-pet at Ocean Grove RV Resort and love to see our favorite guests arrive happy and excited for their stay. So we’ve put together some helpful tips that will prep you and your pup for a successful journey.
Tip 1: Research Your Destination’s Pet-Friendliness Before You Go
Not all travel destinations are created equal when it comes to pet-friendliness. St. Augustine tends to welcome canine companions with open arms. While most establishments are clear about their rules, doing a little research beforehand goes a long way to ensure the safety and well-being of all. Ocean Grove rolls out the red carpet for our Very Important Pups, but we do ask owners to become familiar with and abide by our Pet Policy. This helps ensure everyone can relax and focus on making memories, not mistakes.
Tip 2: Prepare Your Pup for Travel
Again, a little prep work goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free journey to your travel destination. Before you leave, schedule a vet visit to make sure your dog is healthy and current on vaccinations. Some destinations even require immunization documentation. Train your dog with short trips to acclimate them to long car rides and reduce their anxiety. Pad your travel time to include bathroom, water, and exercise breaks every two to three hours. Avoid feeding your dog a large meal before a car trip to reduce motion sickness. And ensure your dog’s safety in unfamiliar environments by securing accurate identification tags to their collars and harnesses. Despite our best intentions, emergencies do happen. Have a plan in place for unexpected illness or injury by researching nearby veterinarians and 24-hour pet clinics at your destination.
Tip 3: Pack Like a Pro
Traveling with your pet requires thoughtful packing. Essentials like food, water, bowls, toys, grooming supplies, and waste bags are mandatory, but here are a few items that you may not have considered:
- A first-aid kit specifically made for pets that includes tweezers, wound care, medications, and a rescue sling.
- Your dog’s favorite blanket from home will provide comfort in unfamiliar settings.
- A small container of paw balm or wax will protect their pads from sand, hot pavement, and gravel.
- An extra leash, collar, and harness could come in handy while exploring.
- In addition to a standard ID tag, add a special travel tag with information regarding where you’re staying while away from home.
Tip 4: Create Familiarity in New Surroundings
Once you arrive at your destination, there are a few things you can do to help your dog quickly settle in. Set up their bed, bring out their favorite toys, and give them time to sniff out their new digs. Try to stick to their normal exercise and feeding routine as much as possible. Once they’ve explored the great indoors, walk them around the property so they can begin to get to know their new surroundings. Ocean Grove has a convenient on-site dog run for quick romps and potty breaks. For bigger adventures, head to the beach just a short walk away and let the sniff safari begin!
Establishing a comfortable routine in new places includes observing the rules associated with pet etiquette. Ocean Grove provides a helpful Pet Policy that lets guests know where their dogs are allowed to go, how to respectfully interact with other guests, and where to dispose of their waste.
Tip 5: Enjoy Quality Time Together
Once everyone’s comfortable, it’s time to go out and have some fun as a family. St. Augustine offers a variety of dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and attractions, along with seven dog-friendly beaches located within minutes of Ocean Grove RV Resort. HERE are our top picks. Pack a portable water bowl and a few treats to keep your pup happy and energized for their adventures ahead.
Traveling with your pet deepens your bond and creates cherished memories. A little planning ahead pays off in a big way when you get to experience the world through your dog’s curious eyes. So pack your bags, buckle up your best friend, and enjoy your pet-friendly adventure.
