High Seas Adventure with K-Dee

To many American's our pet is not just an animal; it is a member of our family. We do not want to go on vacation and leave our pet(s) at home or in a kennel, we want to take them with us! I have a miniature schnauzer named K-Dee who has been my travel companion for ten years. K-Dee and I have been across the United States and have had many adventures together. Our very first adventure began when K-Dee was a mere three months old.

I chose a miniature schnauzer for several reasons including; they are a non-shedding breed, they are small and therefore portable, and they have wonderful temperament and personality. My girl, K-Dee fit all of those requirements for me. Shortly after purchasing K-Dee, my current companion and I decided to take a vacation to the Florida Keys. We leased a houseboat for a week to enjoy life on the water. We also rented a speedboat to enable us to explore the different reefs and bay areas. Our destination was Marathon Key, half-way between Key Largo and Key West.

From Atlanta, Georgia the drive to Marathon takes nearly twelve hours. Driving that far with a small, young dog was the first adventure. Until that first vacation trip, I had never traveled with a pet and was ill prepared. I had not packed adequate supplies, did not have the proper transport for her in the vehicle, and had not anticipated the many stops she would need. I had made sure that she would be allowed in the houseboat, what rules applied at the marina, and where she could be walked to use the bathroom. I had also not anticipated what activities would be acceptable for her to do. We did not want to leave her crated for the entire day. Without giving it much thought, we daringly brought her with us on our first venture in the speedboat. She was in her element with the wind blowing in her face as we raced across the water to the first reef we had chosen for a snorkel adventure. After anchoring the boat, my companion and I donned our fins, mask and snorkel and into the water we jumped. Much to our dismay K-Dee, without hesitation, followed us into the water. At first, we were concerned that the saltwater might not be good for her and we put her back into the boat. Unfortunately, we had failed to bring a leash or tether to keep her in the boat and as soon as we went back into the water, so did she. Finally we gave up trying to keep her in the boat and let her swim with us. We explored the shallow reefs, spotting a nursery of conch’s, lobster, starfish and many varieties of fish as we swam. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a flash of bright silver, something that was larger than anything else on the reef. Turning to get a full view, I found myself face-to-face with a three foot long, very toothy, barracuda. I had never seen one of these before and needless to say, the amount of teeth showing made my breath catch in my throat especially when I realized that it was circling K-Dee like she was lunch. I don’t think that I have ever swum as fast as I did at that moment to grab my dog and haul her and myself back into the boat! That was the only time that K-Dee has been allowed to swim in the ocean.

Inevitably, as pet owners we will bring our loving companions with us when we travel. The movement towards pets being accepted in hotels, motels, inns, RV parks and campgrounds has steadily grown.  More places are accepting that pets are not just animals but an integral part of our families. If we are to travel responsibly with our pets, it is important to make sure they are acceptable at our destination, are healthy enough for travel, up-to-date on their vaccinations, have the correct accessories for travel, and have activities in which they can participate. It has been my experience that spending time and effort before I leave ensures K-Dee will be comfortable and happy during our travels and makes for a more relaxing and enjoyable vacation.

Before you leave for your trip, take your pet to the veterinarian and make sure they are up-to-date on all vaccinations and get the documentation for those vaccinations. Refill any medications that your pet needs before you go. Pack for your pet as you do for yourself but remember to pack their “suitcase” last so you have access to items you may need on the road such as food and water. Remember that your pet does not have the same ability that you have for going long stretches without a bathroom break and water. Plan to stop every three or four hours to let your pet have a drink of water, stretch its legs, and use the bathroom.

You don’t need to pack everything you own for your pet to ensure that they will be safe and happy. It is wise to give some thought to what items you will need and be sure that you have them with you. K-Dee and I have packing for her down to a science now. I have a small duffle bag that fits “our” needs perfectly. It stows behind the driver seat and is easy to access during our drive and at our destination. I plan to travel with my girl until she becomes too old to enjoy our adventures together.

Below are some items you might consider when traveling with your pet.
Travel Accessories:
•          Leash
•          Collar
•          Pet Seat (for smaller breeds)
•          Pet Travel Harness
•          Portable drinking bowl
•          Portable food bowl
•          Medications
•          Grooming Tools
•          Crate of appropriate size if staying in a hotel
•          Bedding for Crate
•          Treats

Useful websites:
(Travel Accessories)
www.thepamperedpetmart.com
www.ohmydogsupplies.com
www.pettravelstore.com
(Pet Friendly Activities)
www.wagworld.com
www.dogfriendly.com
www.petsonthego.com
(Pet Friendly Accommodations)
www.officialpethotels.com
www.petsarewelcome.come
www.bringfido.com