Winter travel season is here once again and if you’re a dog owner, that means deciding whether your four-legged family member will be joining you on the road or spending some quality time at a kennel. In either case, keep these tips in mind to ensure a safe, secure and stress-free trip for everyone.

• Let’s see some ID – Make sure the information on your dog’s ID tags is current and the tags are securely fastened to his collar. Also, carry a recent photo with contact information in case you get separated.

• Vacation vaccination – Schedule a visit to the vet if your dog isn’t completely up to date on all shots before you leave. Keep copies of vaccination documentation on hand and also bring along any medications your dog might need.

• Home sweet automobile – Bring a favorite blanket and pillow to create a familiar, comforting environment in the car. Try to stick to a regular feeding and sleeping schedule and never leave pets alone in a locked car for long periods of time, regardless of the weather.

• Watered down – Along with food, your dog will need plenty of bottled water for the road. Bring an extra water bowl and make frequent stops so your dog can drink. If you are travelling by plane, secure a frozen waterer to your pet’s crate. The water will melt during the trip and help keep your dog hydrated.

• Shake your booty – If you’re planning some backwoods winter adventures with your pooch, bring along a set of all-weather dog booties to protect your pet’s paws from raw, frozen terrain.

• No more salty paws – Walking on roads or sidewalks coated with de-icing salts can irritate a dog’s paw pads. Bring along some baby wipes to help keep paws clean and salt-free.

• Be prepared – Pack an extra leash, first aid kit, and cleaning supplies for unexpected emergencies.

• Sweater weather – If your dog is prone to the shivers, he or she might need a warm doggy sweater to keep the chills at bay.

• Looking inn-ward – If you need a dog-friendly place to stay, Motel 6, Howard Johnson, Red Roof Inns and La Quinta Inns welcome pets. More upscale hotel chains such as Starwood Resorts, Four Seasons and the Ritz-Carlton also accommodate guests travelling with pets. Call ahead to inquire about special services including pet menus and “doggie welcome bags.”

Kennel club
Let’s face it, not every trip is ideal for bringing your dog. So when Fido won’t be joining you on your trip, consider these tips for finding the perfect kennel for your pooch. 

Request a tour – Call the boarding facility and ask for a tour. If they decline your request, cross them off the list. Any place that’s not willing to show you where your pet will be sleeping is no place for your pet.

What to look for during the tour –

• Note if the place is clean and smells pleasant
• Watch how the staff interacts with the dogs
• Watch the behavior of the other dogs; do they seem happy and relaxed or anxious?
• Ask to see where your dog will sleep, play and be exercised
• Ask about security

More questions to ask

• How much time will my dog be spending outside his enclosure?
• How many times a day will my dog be fed?
• Can I bring my dog’s food; if not, what will you be feeding my dog?
• Is there someone here 24 hours a day?
• Describe your emergency procedures
• Can I bring my dog’s bed, favorite blanket and/or toys?
• What paperwork do you need before I drop my dog off?
• How far in advance do I need to make reservations for my dog’s stay?

Trial run – Once you’ve selected a boarding facility, consider dropping your dog off for day care or an overnight stay before your trip. This will help to get him acclimated to the place and also help him understand that you’ll be back to pick him up.

Whether you bring your dog with you or board him at a kennel, a little preparation can go a long way toward ensuring both of you have a great time during the winter holiday travel season.

For more information, visit aspca.org.