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Cool Lizard Gear
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SHOP OUR STORE for unique items to help you explore Arizona in style and comfort.
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Every one of our travel reviews contains information on the destination's appropriateness for pets. Are pets allowed? Are the trails safe for pets? Are there dog parks in the area? The symbol on the right is located at the top of every travel review page. Click the symbol to go directly to information on traveling with pets to that destination.
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Pet Travel Tips
Rule #1: Plan Ahead
Do your homework before starting out on your trip. Locate dog parks, vetrinarians, and pet-friendly hotels. It is unsafe to leave a pet unattended
in a vehicle, so plan meals on the road accordingly.
WATCH FOR THIS SYMBOL ON EVERY REVIEW PAGE: Know conditions before you go. We include
a section for pets on every review page.
Travel with Pets
Rule #2: Pack Appropriately For Your Pet
A favorite toy, blanket or bed can make travel less stressful for your pet. We have made packing easier for you by providing a FREE packing guide for pets.
Download FREE Pet Packing Guide
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FREE easy pattern for a portable pet bed. Turn an old pillow into a comfy pet bed. Envelope opening allows easy removal for washing. Click link to go to
CraftAndFabricLinks.com. Photo printed with permission.
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Easy Dog Bed Pattern
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Rule #3: Bring Water, Food & Leash
In Arizona, the fact that there is a dot on the map does not guarantee that a McDonald's or pet supply store is available. Bring plenty of water. If you are not sure what might be available in the next town, bring food as well.
Pets can become dehydrated very quickly. Be sure they are drinking plenty of fluids. Pets don't drink from bottles - remember to bring
a bowl. Keep a close eye on your pets for signs of exhaustion, hunger and dehydration.
ALWAYS have a leash with you. Leashes are required in many areas. Maricopa County (contains Phoenix), for example, requires a 6 foot leash in ALL county parks. The leash will protect your pet, other travelers and the environment.
Rule #4: Check Weather Conditions
If traveling to higher elevations, be prepared for quick changes in the weather. Thunderstorms roll in quickly in summer months and winter can bring snow and freezing temperatures.
HEAT WARNING: NEVER LEAVE PETS UNATTENDED IN A VEHICLE.
The desert area can become hot even in winter.
Rule #5: Wear Appropriate Clothing / Hat / Shoes
Since most pets won't wear sunglasses, visors or other protection can be purchased from pet stores.
Many stores sell caps for dogs. An umbrella can provide a shaded rest area for your pet.
Doggy boots are available for dogs who travel in snow. Hot pavement can burn paws. Foot protection might be required depending on weather conditions.
Rule #6: Exercise Your Pet
Help keep your pet healthy and less stressed by providing exercise. Stopping by pet-friendly rest areas or dog parks will
allow your pet to stretch his legs and get in some play time while on long drives.
Rule #7: Clean Up After Your Pet
ALWAYS carry a "poop scoop". Keep the environment clean for others.
Rule #8: Be Considerate Of Others
Keep your pet quiet so that others can enjoy the environment. Loud, late night barking can quickly ruin a fellow camper's experience. Follow leash laws and be respectful of others' pets.
Rule #9: Be Aware of the Environment
NEVER allow your dog or pet to stick his nose or paw into an area where they cannot be seen. That hole in the ground might look interesting, but it could very well
be the home of a stinging insect, venomous spider or snake. Keep your pet on the trail (and on a leash). I have never had a problem while on a trail, but I once disturbed an angry swarm of stinging ants when I stepped slightly off the trail to take a photo.
I had to do a quick "two step" back onto the trail. Be aware - be safe!
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Also see:
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Travel FREEBIES
FREE Color book and lizard stickers, FREE packing lists, resource links, FREE projects plus articles
on travel with children or pets and accessible travel. Enjoy our free Arizona slide show.
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