Vacationing With Your French Bulldog

Have you refrained from having a Frenchie because of the restraints that they impose on your time? Are vacations and outings now a thing of the past? Many French Bulldog  owners find that the excitement of planning their next family vacation is tampered by the thought of leaving their Frenchie behind in someone else's care or at a kennel. Owners don't have to let their French Bulldog miss out on the family vacation; they can be included in all of the fun. Frenchies love to be around the people that they love. One of the most endearing qualities of this noble breed is that they want and need to be around the people that they love as much and as often as possible. To include your beloved “bat” dog, the French bulldog, in family outings requires a little planning on your part.

Considerations for taking your Frenchie with you on your next vacation might include these points:

Transportation

French Bulldogs love to travel by car. Accommodating your French Bulldog via this method will not be difficult. Be sure to have water available and be sure and stop to let her stretch her legs and move around every few hours just like you would with other members of your family. If you are traveling by airplane with your French Bulldog, then you must plan and pay for your Frenchie's trip. An airplane crate is required and is the safest way for your French Bulldog fly. Learn, familiarize and understand what the customs and rules are for domestic and international flights if you're planning on leaving the United States. Each country has its own rules and regulations in these matters, consult your consulate or travel agency, they will be able to help you in this regard. If you are traveling by car and still have plans on leaving the States, familiarize what the laws are in Canada and Mexico for pet crossing. DO NOT FORGET TO BRING YOUR FRENCH BULLDOG VACCINATION RECORDS WITH YOU.

Lodging

Some hotels and inns welcome guests with French Bulldogs catering to their comfort by providing treats, toys and bowls. Inquire as to whether there is an additional fee if your Frenchie is staying in the room and whether and if there are any weight or size restrictions on the dogs allowed in the facility. Some campsites also allow your French Bulldog. Keep a close eye on your Frenchie for protection from wild animals and other dangers; Frenchies can't run very fast and are quickly winded. Rental homes or the homes of family and friends who willingly allow your French Bulldog may also be a good choice for your family vacation.

Activities

There are many activities you can all enjoy together with your Frenchie. Look for hiking trails, parks or recreation areas allowing your French Bulldog to tag along. If a boating expedition is on your agenda, pet stores carry French Bulldog size life vests or you can check at your local sporting goods store. Make sure that you get a good fit for your Frenchie.

Restaurants

While most restaurants do not allow your French Bulldog inside their establishments, that does not mean your Frenchie cannot accompany you to some restaurants. Some restaurants offering outdoor seating may allow your French Bulldog to dine with their people. If you're thinking about a particular establishment call and find out if they allow for this accommodation. Your travel agent might be able to help you in this regard.

If you elect to leave your French Bulldog at your vacation house or hotel while either dinning out or pursuing some indoor activities, then be sure that your Frenchie is comfortable in your absence. By providing your Frenchie with some treats and water along with some of her favorite toys from home and possibly a shirt of yours with your scent on it will help to make your Frenchie feel more secure in new surroundings.

With some proper planning, you can take your next vacation with your little “bat dog,” the French Bulldog, and return with an entire lifetime of fond, happy memories.