Pet parents of the world are gearing up to hit the open road with their dogs, cats, and other furry friends this summer. Where are they going? Are they staying at high-end boutique pet friendly hotels, or do they prefer a laid back, sand in the paws type vacation? How much do they plan to spend on their pet's travel adventure? Is it possible that they are planning their family vacation around their four legged friend? Well, we asked these and other questions in a recent survey and the results are in.
Find out what pet parents are up to this summer and what they do with their pets when traveling. Some things may surprise you!
• Getting There. As much as pet parents absolutely adore their pets, only 26% will be using a pet seat belt, car seat, or vehicle pet barrier of some type to properly secure their pet. Twelve percent allow Fido to travel on their laps while driving. And a whopping 73% allow their dogs to stick their heads out the car window when traveling. Yikes! Not very safe pet travel habits.
• Dogs. This one shouldn't surprise you. Overwhelmingly, people are vacationing with their dogs. Ninety-three percent of pet travelers plan to travel with their pooch this summer. Sorry, Fluffy!
• Fido First. When pet parents were asked if they are planning their trip around their dogs needs and enjoyment, an astounding 67% said YES! This just goes to show you the changing role that our animals play in our lives. They are not only family members, but apparently members with some serious clout!
• Surfs Up. No, it's not grandma's house in Florida or a fancy resort in New York. The top type of summer pet travel is a beach vacation. Pet parents are packing up Fido and heading to beach towns. Since Fido comes first, it only makes sense to set the GPS to the nearest beach destination. What dog doesn't enjoy romping in the surf and sand?
• Pampering. When selecting pet friendly accommodations for summer travel, over half of pet parents will compare the pet amenities. The more welcome baskets, dog treats, dog beds, and doggie doors - the better!
• One Week. We're not talking about a quick weekend getaway! Almost half of the respondents plan on vacationing with their dog for a whole week.
• Mucho Dinero. Pet parents plan on coughing up some serious bucks on their pet's summer travel adventure. Between pre-travel pet gear, pet friendly accommodations, and special treats, 62% of pet parent respondents estimate they'll spend between $200-$300 on their dogs.
Pets are such special family members. It's nice to see how their humans are going above and beyond to include them and ensure they are happy in their summer travels.
Safe travels, no heads out the window, and please buckle up those pets!