Pet Friendly Vacations

Where are the best places for pet friendly vacations? You want to take your dog with you on a well deserved holiday so you ask yourself that question. We have a few answers.

Make sure you know whether your dog will be accepted to your destination before you leave home. You don't want any surprises when you arrive.

Also, always carry proof of your pet's vaccinations. They will be asked for when you check into hotels, board your dog at kennels and, possibly, when touring the national parks.

We've come up with a number of popular destinations in different regions of the country for great pet friendly vacations. Take a look at the various sections to give you some ideas.

BEACHES

Huntington Beach - Pacific Coast Highway. This is a great beach for dogs. It is unfenced, has picnic tables on the dunes, waste disposal bags and trash cans and restrooms for humans.

Dogs are permitted to be off leash anywhere on the beach but with owner's supervision.

Redondo Beach - This popular area has trees, disposal bags, trash cans, phones, water and a separate fenced area for small dogs.

San Diego - Fiesta Island - Dogs are allowed anywhere outside the fenced areas.

Florida

Clearwater Beach - Miles of white sand for you and your dog to explore. Beautiful area. Dogs must be on a leash.

Sanibel Island - This is a lovely island off of the western coast of Florida. You and your dog can roam for miles. Dogs must be on a leash.

Take a look at this site we found for other great dog friendly beaches in Florida, www.best-florida-beaches.net.

If you are staying in a beach area, ask where pets are allowed. Chances are that as long as your dog is on a leash, they will be allowed on the beaches.

Also, always clean up after your pet, whether on hotel grounds or walking the beach. This will ensure that our four legged friends are always welcome.

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS

Walt Disney World - Florida

This is our favorite for pet friendly vacations. We've been there many times with our dogs and found this is the best place for not only humans, but canines for rest and relaxation.

There are at least four kennel facilities on property, two are for overnite/hotel guests. All kennels are air conditioned with indoor and outdoor runs. A nominal fee is charged.

Your dog will get spoiled by all the attention the dog loving attendants give your pet. They feed, water and give meds and lots of TLC to your four legged family member, but you have to walk them at least three times a day.

My husband and I found these dog walking breaks were great for us as well as our dogs, because after the touring of the parks, it was great to relax with our "kids".

When you make your reservations for one of the resort hotels, always let them know you are bringing your pet and arrange for accommodations at the overnite kennels. You don't want to get there and find there isn't any room available for your pet.

Disneyland Resort - California

We haven't been here yet with our kids, but from what I know of Disney, they are just as good with taking care of pets in California, as well as Florida.

These kennels are air conditioned and a small fee is charged. Attendants make sure pets have plenty of food, water and attention.

If you are looking for pet friendly vacations in other areas, you will find that most of the popular attractions all over the country, such as Sea World, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, have kennels on property.

Always call ahead to make reservations, find out what is included with the kennel fee and hours of operation.

NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND

The beauty of our parks and lands is without question. The majesty and history of our country's birth and expansion is available for all to see.

During your visit, think of the explorers who saw these wonders for the first time hundreds of years ago. Kind of puts things in perspective.

Pet friendly vacations at most national parks and public land allow dogs but they must be on a leash.

Some have restrictions as to where your pet can have access, such as parking lot area only or being prohibited in buildings.

Many parks do not allow dogs in eco-sensitive areas. Specific pet policies vary from park to park so the best way to find out where your pet is allowed, go to the national parks website at www.nps.gov to find out all the information you will need for your visit to the national park of your choice.

Hiking with your pet in the parks can be fun but you also need to be aware of the dangers to your dog.

These are wild areas and are inhabited by wild animals and other critters. Poisonous snakes, in particular, are a danger to you and your dog so always be on the alert.

If you will be near rivers, be careful swimming with your pet. Currents can change rapidly and carry both you and your dog into dangerous situations.

Always follow park rules and guidelines. Never leave your pet unattended or locked in a parked car, especially on hot days.