Happy Summer Canine Traveling! It’s time for making Summer travel plans and I can’t wait to see how many of you choose to come to enjoy the beach, the hiking trails, the surfing and kayaking, the wineries visits, and lovely beach strolls in Pismo Beach!

I am so excited to share this news with you! According to the TripAdvisor® “annual traveling with pets” survey of more than 1,100 travelers and more than 700 pet owners worldwide, 53 percent of respondents with pets travel with their collared companions, with Americans being 56 percent more likely to travel with their pets.

In my hometown of Pismo Beach, we love putting out the welcome mat for all my doggy friends at our many dog-friendly hotels, vacation rentals and campsites. We cater to you with doggy-dedicated packages that include fresh cozy bedding, clean bowls, lots of special treats and plenty of dog friendly activities that include playing on the beach; visiting the local vineyards; leisurely walks and long nature hikes; dining out and much more.

My list of doggy-designated road trip supplies includes:

I.D. Collar: Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with identification tags and is micro-chipped

Leashes: 2 leashes; make sure the extra leash is not an extend-a-leash

Waste pick-up bags

Doggy towel, brush or grooming tool

Cleansing wipes

First-aid kit with necessary medications; have access to health records

Travel bedding

Favorite Toys

Regular dog food and treats for the duration of the trip

Water: bottled water and a bowl

IN-VEHICLE TETHER:  It is of upmost importance that you secure your pets while you drive.  Properly fit your dog with a pet-safety harness securely attached to the seatbelt or place your dog or cat inside a pet carrier that is fastened in place. A dog should never ride in the front passenger seat or in your lap, and also, don’t allow him to stick his head out the window. If your dog rides in your truck bed, California State law requires that your dog is properly tethered or in placed in a secure dog carrier. Remember, all pets become projectiles in sudden stops or accidents. According to DMV.org “Although you may have a pickup truck and are under the impression that a dog and truck bed go hand-in-hand, you are mistaken. Each year thousands of dogs are killed while in a truck bed, mostly from falling out or being bonked by road rubbish. Plus, the same issues with dogs and rolled-down windows come into play. The velocity of the air mass shooting into the pup's lungs is not healthy and can cause damage over time. So, keep them in the cab.”

Also, it’s a good idea to locate some dog-friendly restaurants both on your way and at your destination. Find dog-friendly restaurants and outdoor cafes preferably during early morning, late-morning or late afternoon when they are less crowded. If possible, play and exercise with your dog before dining so your dog feels calm and is less excitable at new places and new faces.

I will also remind you, NEVER LEAVE YOUR PETS UNATTENDED IN A HOT CAR.  According to California Penal Code (Cal. Penal Code § 597.7) it is illegal to “leave or confine an animal in any unattended motor vehicle under conditions that endanger the health or well-being of an animal due to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or death to the animal.”

 Lastly, have fun together and share your canine travel adventure photos in Pismo Beach with your pet-loving pals on our Facebook page!

Happy Tails to You,

Goldie of Pismo Beach

A Classic California Canine Vacation Destination