Cat Cello with kitty!      

1. Plan ahead. You will need to take extra steps to include your pets on your holiday. Especially at the beach, as fleas can be a particular nuisance. Don't let that dissuade you from bringing your pet; but there are considerations. Be sure to take measures to protect your pets from fleas in advance of travel.
Consider in advance if your pet will be comfortable staying in a strange environment. We sometimes have to call pet owners back to a property due to barking that disturbs the neighbors. This could be right in the middle of enjoying your dinner. Many pets are are crate trained; and don't mind being left at the property for short periods of time, or we do advise owners to take their pets with them. Also, many of the beaches do not allow pets on them, or if they do, the hours are specific and limited; so research this in advance. If your pets are more comfortable kept in your car, (weather permitting), that might be the preferred arrangement so that you are not disturbed. Caution though- Never leave your pet in the car during the day, unless you have taken special precautions to make sure they are comfortable. The weather may be very cool one minute, and very warm the next along the coast. I either take my dog to a pet friendly outdoor dining establishment, or look for a parking garage where it is cool and comfortable.
Prep your pets for travel. Ease them into a longer journey by taking them along on shorter trips around town in the days prior. Maintain your pet's feeding and bathroom schedule as closely as possible. Make potty break stops roughly every three hours for water and exercise. If your pet has a favorite toy or treat, bring it along. The familiarity will make travel easier.

Pack a pet travel tote. It should include cleanup supplies, a travel bed, food and water, portable bowls, a pet first-aid kit and lots of toys to keep your pet busy and well behaved. Make a list of all of the extra pet gear and supplies you will need, and when you inquire about the vacation property, be sure to ask up front if it is pet friendly. Most properties will have an added cleaning fee and an additional refundable security deposit.
Be prepared. Your pet's tags should be up to date and include your cell phone number (remember, you're on the road). Prior to leaving, visit the veterinarian. If your pet usually gets carsick or stressed when traveling, the vet may be able to suggest medications or other treatments that could help.   

Airlines that do accept pets, have a limited number of pets per flight that they will accommodate; so be sure to check this before making your vacation home reservation.

2. Practice round. If your dog isn't accustomed to car or plane travel, introduce him to the pet carrier well before your departure date. Toss a favorite toy or familiar object into the carrier and take a spin within familiar territory. Be sure when purchasing the carrier that it is airline-compliant and very sturdy. I have found that plastic zippers were very easy for my dog to break, and went through a couple of travel carriers before finding the right one.
Tiki and Verushqa

3. Make plenty of stops to allow every member of your family the opportunity to stretch their legs and breathe fresh air, including your pet. Once you arrive at your destination, include your pet in hikes, walks on pet-friendly beaches or visits to local parks. We do have dog parks in Encinitas, Oceanside, Laguna Beach and the San Diego area. Only 10 minutes south of Encinitas, we have dog friendly beaches.

4. Make sure your pet has access to plenty of clean, fresh water throughout your travels. Pets become dehydrated very quickly when travelling. Proper hydration is key to your pet's health.

5. Have fun. Enjoy this extra-special time with your family and pet. Take the opportunity to get some special photos of your pets in your vacation photo album. If visiting pet parks or the beaches, be sure that your pet is socialized prior to letting them run at any off-leash parks or beaches.

6. Some pets are just much happier staying at home; so consider this when making your plans. For some vacation plans it may be very inconvenient to bring your pet.
If you are planning on spending many of your vacation days visiting attractions, it may be preferable to arrange for a pet sitter; or a great day to drop off at the  dog groomer. Your pet will appreciate the consideration. Leave plenty of his favorite treats, toys and his preferred food with all of the instructions for the sitter. Another alternative is to leave your pet at a Pet Motel for a day if you are going to be out for several hours; or have him picked up for a pet play date. All of these services can be found here in the area throughout San Diego and Orange County California.              
                         Coco and Siggy
Rest in Peace- our good friend Leroy

These are the pet friendly properties on my website: OH866 (Neptune), OV1564 (Neptune), OC135 (Phoebe), OH134 (5th St, ask, small dog only), all Encinitas
Oceanside1020, L1130 (North Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach) L32032 (Sunset Dr, Laguna Beach)

an Elijo Lagoon Trail
Encinitas, CA, US
San Elijo Lagoon Trail is an easy, 3 mile hike in the San Elijo Ecological Reserve that will take about 2 hours to complete with Fido. This trail runs close by the lagoon

Orpheus Dog Park
Encinitas, CA, US
This beautiful neighborhood park boasts gorgeous ocean views that your pet can enjoy off-leash with you at designated hours on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Cricket's Corner Dog Park
Encinitas, CA, US
This fenced, off-leash dog park includes a separate small dog area, water fountains, trees for shade, and benches, and can be booked for doggie special events on certain days.

Viewpoint Off Leash Dog Area
Encinitas, CA, US
Pets are welcome to run and play off-leash during designated hours at this lovely, well-shaded city park

Carlsbad Premium Outlets
Carlsbad, CA, US
Dogs are welcome to join you on-leash in the outdoor areas of this outlet mall packed with great stores for both men and women.

Closest Dog Beach – Del Mar
A nice, low key spot of sand to let your dog run off-leash Seasonal, September to June! Del Mar. Parking is also at a premium, and parking tickets flow freely in Del Mar. Camino del Mar at Via de la Valle, Del Mar.

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