If you are a frequent traveler and animal owner, you are probably aware that there are pet friendly motels that you can bring your dog or cat to while you are on the road. If you hate leaving your pets at a boarding shelter while you are traveling, you would be wise to find pet hotels along your route so that your beloved family members can stay with you. Many dog friendly hotels allow canines up to a certain weight with no extra deposit. Some pet friendly motels do require a deposit, and larger pets and reptiles are not allowed.

Before you book your rooms, check that your pet friendly motels are accepting pets matching the weight of your animal. Some pet hotels will require that you keep the animal in a cage in your room, and most dog friendly hotels insist that your canine is kept on a leash at all times when it is outside of your room. There are many websites that are specialize in pet friendly hotel or condo rentals, with easy to use guides to help you to find the best lodging that is both convenient for you and comfortable for your animals.

If you plan to be away for long periods of time, you might reconsider bringing along your animal to pet friendly motels. Some animals do better at home with a sitter or in a boarding facility than traveling around to various pet hotels. When you reserve a room at dog friendly hotels, you will want to ask what the policies are regarding animals, and whether there is a deposit. Most overnight lodging establishments will always allow seeing-eye or service dogs no matter what their pet policies are. The more research that you do on the lodging options for your vacation or travel destination, the more comfortable your pet will be on the road. Also, if you are travelling by plane, don't forget to check with the airlines about their pet policies. Many airlines require larger dogs to be in a cage in the checked luggage section of the plane and also need to see proof of animal licenses, especially when travelling to a foreign country. Smaller dogs and cats can sometimes be carried on to the plane in a pet carrier if the carrier is small enough to fit under the plane's seat back.

When you are preparing to leave for your pet friendly hotel, be sure to pack along some portable pet bowls and enough food and water supply for your pet to last for the duration of your trip. You might also want to bring a small blanket or toy from home to remind your pet of the scents of their home. If you are driving to your destination, you might want to search for dog parks along your route or plan for stops to walk your dog for at least 30 minutes to release their energy. If you are travelling with a cat, consider bringing a portable litter box that your cat can use on the road or in your hotel room. Most importantly, be sure your pets are secure in your vehicle and won't pose a hazard to the driver.