Five Tips to have a dog friendly vacation at a hotel

Whether your plans include a beach resort, downtown hotel, or a mountain lake retreat here are 5 tips to keep you and your dog happy at dog friendly hotels.

1. After checking in, take your dog for a short walk around the grounds, going back to your room several times. Your dog will leave a scent trail and feel more comfortable in the strange surroundings. Go down the hall, up the stairs, out the front entrance of the hotel and down to the pool. Your dog is curious about its environment just like you are.

2. Whenever you take your dog outside your room carry a small spray bottle of cleaner, a few paper towels and of course plastic bags for cleanup. You can pack this in a fanny pack to be less conspicuous. Always take it with you, if you don't, you can be sure that's the one time your puppy pal will go potty.

3. Never leave your dog in the hotel room alone, even if it's crated, or otherwise restrained. The dog may not be able to destroy anything in the room if it's confined but it can bark and howl. And that's exactly what the dog will do when separated from its family. Most dog friendly hotels insist that dogs are not left in the room alone. Don't be tempted to run out even for five minutes.

4. Even if your dog is well trained to walk with you off leash, keep him/her on the leash at all times. Most cities have leash laws. And just as importantly it's common courtesy to the other guests. It's hard to believe but not everyone loves dogs. Small children can be easily frightened by dogs, even if your dog has the sweetest nature, the child doesn't know that.

5. Pack an extra leash. If it's time for a potty break that's not the time to go frantically looking for Rover's leash.

There are many great dog friendly hotels. You and your dog can have a fun vacation.

If you plan on traveling with your dog this summer find out more great tips at The Dog Lover's Guide to Traveling Dee is the proud companion to Rose, a four year old Irish Setter and Kate a two year old English Springer Spaniel.