Planning a local trip with your furry friend can be a pawsitive adventure for both you and your dog. With so many hotels and attractions now welcoming pets, it’s just one more reason to take them along for the family fun. Not to mention, it’s an ideal way to help pass the time of those dog days of summer.
Here are some key points to consider when organizing a trip with your pup:
- Be sure to choose pet-friendly accommodations for your hotel or vacation rentals, or if “ruffing” it at a campground. Check their pet policies, fees, and amenities they offer for pets.
- Destination selection. Make sure your destination offers activities suitable for dogs—parks, trails, or pet-friendly locations where they can enjoy the outdoors.
- Pack the essentials. Don’t forget their food, water, bowls, leash, collar with ID tags, waste bags, toys, and any medications they take.
- Health and safety. Ensure that your dog’s vaccinations and preventative treatments are up to date. Bring a copy of the dog’s medical records and contact information for local veterinarians in case of emergency.
- Buckle up. When traveling in the car, secure your dog with a harness, crate, or pet barrier approved for car travel. Don’t forget to take regular breaks for quick walks during the car ride.
- Plan dog-friendly activities such as exploring pet-friendly beaches, visiting dog parks, and dining at outdoor restaurants that welcome dogs.
Pet-Friendly Resorts Within Driving Distance
Costa d’Este—Vero Beach
Costa d’Este is a pet-friendly, oceanfront hotel in Vero Beach. Four-legged friends can dig into breakfast on the pet-friendly Bamboo Patio, then head out for a fun-filled day on the beach. If they’re in need of a break from the sand, simply head to the nearby open-air dog park on the beautiful Indian River.
Naples Bay Resort & Marina—Naples
Naples Bay Resort is pet-friendly, and with its own marina, it’s a great place to rent a boat and take your four-legged family member with you on a boat ride across Naples Bay to Keewaydin Island. This beautiful barrier island beach allows leashed dogs, and it’s the only dog-friendly beach in the greater Naples/Marco Island area.
Hawks Cay Resort—Duck Key
From the moment you and your pup arrive, you’ll be assigned a dedicated pup planner who will be there to assist you every step of the way. Whether you need travel information or recommendations for pet services, your pup planner will ensure that your vacation is seamless and stress-free. To make your dog’s stay even more enjoyable, they’ll provide a Vacay Pup amenity package at check-in. If you need any additional pet supplies during your stay, simply let your pup planner know, and they’ll arrange for them to be delivered to your room.