Cesar Millan is an internationally acclaimed dog rehabilitation expert, star of the hit TV show 'Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan' on NatGeo WILD and Best Western's travel with pets expert. He shared these tips with me for traveling with your pet this summer. And don't forget, Cesar is joining me soon on Mondays with Marlo! Ask him your questions in advance here.
Cesar Millan's Top 5 Tips for Traveling with Pets this Summer
1. Do your homework.
Don't just show up to the airport or a hotel with your pet and expect that they will be accepted. Always do your homework in advance; call the airlines and determine pet polices and stay at hotels like Best Western that have more than more 1,000 pet-friendly properties in North America and more than 1,600 pet-friendly properties worldwide.
2. Prepare your family and your pet.
Don't make it a last minute "pack-and-let's-go." Your dog will sense your anxiety and tension. Be ready days in advance, so that your dog has a normal experience before he has to get in the car or on the plane.
3. Take your dog's scent with you.
Honor and respect your dog through his nose. Bringing his dog bed or blanket or toy that smells like "home" will make him feel more calm and relaxed in his temporary home while you're traveling.
4. Claim your travel space.
When you arrive at the hotel, walk your dog around and get him familiar with the place. When you arrive at the room, enter first. Get the dog to stay where he is. Don't let him wander around or he'll assume control of the situation.
5. Respect your environment and surroundings.
Bring bags and pick up after your dog. Also, make sure your dog is treated and using flea prevention well before you arrive – you want to leave the place as you found it and that means flea-free! To minimize barking, take your dog for a long walk to ensure he is well exercised before introducing him to the hotel room or leaving him for long periods of time. And if you use a crate, be sure to acclimate him to it at home before your trip.
Best Western Pet Friendly Policies:
Best Western International is the world's largest collection of pet-friendly hotels with more 1,000 pet-friendly properties in North America and more than 1,600 pet-friendly properties worldwide.
Best Western has taken its offerings to the next level by not only welcoming pets in many of its hotels, but also by creating online search tools and special website features for animal-loving travelers, pet travel tips, important information on planning and packing, as well as activities for pets upon arrival, here.
For more information about Best Western's more than 1,600 pet-friendly hotels worldwide, click here.
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