By Train, Bus & Boat

If you'd like to travel by train or bus you may be disappointed the large commercial carriers do not generally permit pets of any kind except for assistance dogs. Some local train, bus, trolley and cable car companies offer scenic tours and allow well-behaved dogs on leash. Check out the local and commuter companies where you're traveling to see what their policies are. One company based in Ohio, Rovin with Rover or The Tour Company for Owners and Their Canine Companions specializes in dog friendly bus tours!

If you're taking a cruise, you may be in luck. The QE2 luxury cruise ship has some cruises that allow dogs in special lodging with free meals included. Be aware that your Lab will be restricted to the designated kennel/exercise areas and visitation hours are limited. Check with the cruise line that you are planning to use for their policies-smaller ships will usually not be able to accommodate your Lab. Local ferries, day trip boats and chartered boats may and Pets on the Go offers an extensive list of these. Be sure to find out how long the voyage takes including what stops may be along the way so you can plan your dogs bathroom breaks and as always, study their pet policies beforehand.

For recreational boating your Lab may be a great shipmate! After all, they were originally used as working partners with fishermen, helping to haul in nets and catch fish that fell off hooks. As with car travel, you must condition them gradually to the motion of a boat. Start with simply boarding and disembarking while the boat is docked to see how comfortable they are. Once your Lab has his sea legs take him on short trips before doing an all-day excursion. Consider the new noises they'll encounter such as the engine or fog horns or perhaps a sail whipping in the wind and introduce them carefully. Plan periodic on-land visits for potty breaks and provide access to shade in hot weather. Be sure to pack everything they'd normally need for a day away from home including a well-stocked first aid kit and plenty of fresh drinking water.

There are certainly hazards inherent to marine activities so think carefully how you'll handle them. Be sure your Lab is situated onboard where he feels secure (you may need to use a harness and seatbelt) and where he is not likely to get accidentally knocked overboard. Invest in a high quality life vest in a bright color that will make your dog more visible. When it comes time for a swim break, consider the possibility of floating or submerged debris that can snag on a dogs collar or life vest and potentially pull him under water. For this reason, your Lab may be safer naked in some creeks, rivers or ponds. An unseen branch underwater could also injure your Lab, especially if he's jumping off of the boat for his swim. Your dog will also need to be under excellent voice control to ensure that you can keep him safely out of the path of other boats or wave rider type vehicles. It is critical that you keep an eye on your Lab whenever he's in the water in order to monitor his activities and keep track of his location.

If you know of a Labrador with a great travel related story, have him or her contact us!