When life’s stresses are mounting and there’s so much on your mind you can’t focus on anything, it’s time for a vacation. Traveling is a great way to unwind and relieve your mental load in order to return with a fresh perspective. However, some people are reluctant to plan a long trip and leave their companions behind. But the good news is, you don’t have to! Traveling with your dog is not only fun, it also comes with stress-relieving perks of its own.
Everyone knows that time away from work is the best way to reduce workplace stress. When you travel rather than sticking around for a stay-cation, the mental health benefits are even more far-reaching. According to a study from Cornell University, travelers grow happier just planning their vacation, a perk that treating yourself to shopping trip or new gadget at home can’t compete with. And once you depart, your mind is whisked away from all its sources of stress and into a happier state.
So where do dogs fit in? For one, being around your dog is stress-relieving in itself. According to the American Psychological Association, pet owners tend to be happier and healthier than their pet-less counterparts. Pets provide important social support that complements, not replaces, relationships with friends and family. That means your dog is good to have on any vacation, whether you’re traveling alone or with a group. A pet’s presence provides company and security as you explore a new place, gives you an excuse to check out local parks and walking trails, and can even be a great means of connecting with strangers. Your dog’s bathroom and exercise needs also force you maintain a healthy routine on vacation, enabling you to make the most of your time off rather than sleeping until noon each day.
However, traveling with dogs isn’t without its challenges. You’ll have to find a pet-friendly hotel, stick to dining options with outdoor seating, and make flight arrangements for your dog. All of that is easy enough when you pick a pet-friendly destination. Here’s what you need to consider for every kind of vacation destination:
The City
If you want to spend your trip exploring a city’s sights with your dog, skip NYC and Los Angeles and instead head to a city like Phoenix, AZ, Tampa, FL, or Austin, TX, for a bevy of dog-friendly amenities. These dog-friendly destinations boast plenty of local parks and businesses that will welcome you and your dog. Plus, these smaller cities tend to have more green spaces so you can escape from the crowds when you need a break.
The Beach
Nothing is better than lounging by the ocean when you’re stressed. In fact, scientists have evidence that spending time near water makes people happier than any other locale. A trip to the ocean is the perfect opportunity to clear your mind and renew your focus, and with so many pristine beaches along the Florida panhandle and Alabama’s Gulf Shores, there’s no reason not to take advantage of the seaside’s healing nature. Plus, taking your dog to the beach is easy when you book a pet-friendly hotel and pinpoint which beaches permit dogs.
The Mountains
A trip to the mountains is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and reconnect with your creative side. Whether booking a hotel or going primitive with a tent and a campfire, simply being amongst the greenery will help you relax and let go of your worries. There are countless opportunities for you and your dog on a mountain vacation, from exploring hiking trails to resting up in a pet-friendly resort.
Vacation is an essential part of anyone’s work-life balance, and it’s an experience best appreciated in the company of loved ones — including your dog. Instead of worrying about booking a pet sitter before your next trip, plan a vacation that both you and your dog can enjoy.
Written by and rights granted by: Aurora James from www.dogetiquette.info