In recent years, awareness of anxiety issues in our beloved pets has grown. While anxiety has long been recognized as a treatable mental health condition in humans, it took a bit longer for it to be recognized as such in pets, rather than just regarded as a behavioral issue.
Now, pet parents can work on being conscious of their pets’ fears and boundaries, whether their pet is a rescue animal and has specific fears related to their past, or they were born with a genetic predisposition to anxiety. Traveling can be a big stressor for many canines, but some hotels are working on making vacation just as fun for doggie guests as they are for humans.
Relaxing in Style
Whatever the occasion or the location, there are hotels everywhere looking to make your stay comfortable for your pup.
Kona Kai Resort & Spa, located in Santa Fe, California, has just recently opened a doggie massage parlor for canine guests. Some may brush aside the notion of a dog needing a massage alongside their pet parent, but Tammy Beachy, canine masseuse, wants to make it clear that this is a profession, not all fun and games. “You have to give 50 dogs massages, explain who you worked with, where, and exactly what the experience was like,” Beachy said of her training.
Not a fan of the beach? Hotel Providence in Rhode Island offers incredible doggy amenities. This hotel offers a doggie lounge as well as special treats at check-in. The Oxford Hotel in Bend, Oregon offers special dog snacks and even a dog bed. They even offer dog walking services if you find yourself out of the hotel.
Reducing Travel Anxiety in Dogs
You know your pup better than anyone. You might come to the conclusion that their travel anxiety outweighs the benefit of taking them with you. However, you may believe your dog will enjoy the adventure nonetheless. In this case, there are some tips you might try for traveling with a nervous dog.
Work on some basic training & acclimation first. If your canine doesn’t frequently ride in the car, make sure they don’t suffer from motion sickness before settling them in for a long drive or flight. To avoid anxiety about changes in routine, consider asking the veterinarian who knows your dog best for tips. There are supplements, soothing toys, or medication that might help.
