FoFor pet owners, cats and dogs are part of the family, which means when it’s time to leave town this summer, your four-legged friends can come along, too.
In fact, a survey conducted by Motel 6 found that of the 2,000 Americans with summer recreation plans, the vast majority of those traveling with pets this summer (90%) are bringing their dog, and more than a quarter (31%) are bringing their cat.
While traveling with pets can be challenging, Motel 6 and its pet manager, Garfield, fresh off his wild adventure in “The Garfield Movie,” offer these tips to make traveling easier, safer and more fun.
Prepare the essentials: Travel anxiety is also present in your four-legged friends. Make the experience as “family-friendly” as possible by packing your pet’s favorite toys and snacks. Don’t forget to bring plenty of food, such as lasagna, water, collapsible food and water bowls, and a favorite blanket or bed to give him a sense of familiarity.
Stops on the map: One in six Americans (16%) planning to travel this summer are driving to their destination because they plan to bring their pets. Travelers should plan for breaks, especially for meals, to account for traffic and construction. This can help them find places to use the bathroom and give their pets a chance to exercise. Even the laziest pets can benefit from the fresh air.
Find pet-friendly accommodation: When planning your getaway, look for pet-friendly accommodations with plenty of places to relax, like Motel 6, which offers travelers and their furry friends affordable accommodations, and pets always stay free. This takes the stress out of researching hotel pet policies and paying extra fees. Pet owners who travel can join the free My6 discount program to receive a minimum of 6% off every stay at properties nationwide and access hundreds of pet and travel perks.
Travel safely: If you plan on traveling with your pets, make sure they get the royal treatment by researching how to safely transport them during the trip. The Humane Society of the United States recommends that cats and dogs travel in their carriers or carriers anchored by a seat belt to prevent them from moving around in the car. It is important to never leave your pet alone in the car or place them in the front seat, as this could lead to injury. Always keep pets on a leash when they are outside, regardless of their training level, as new surroundings or unexpected noises can startle them.
Don’t forget to have fun: The top reasons travelers bring their four-legged friends on their trips are to spend quality time with them and the joy of seeing their pets happy (39%), to create new memories with their pets (34%), to see their pets’ reactions to new experiences (32%), and the added level of companionship that pets bring to travel (29%). Some ways to spend quality time with your pets include dining at pet-friendly restaurants (preferably ones that offer unlimited cheese), finding nearby green spaces or parks to play in, trying new experiences together, or going for walks. For those who prefer a more leisurely travel experience, be sure to add a quick nap with your pet to your itinerary.
As you look to plan your summer travel plans, visit Motel6.com to find affordable, pet-friendly accommodations.
