If you're planning a vacation to a winter wonderland, maybe you're considering bringing Fido along for the fun. After all, your dog is your best friend, so who better to join you on your winter excursions? Of course, although it's hard to believe, not everyone's a dog person. Therefore, before you plan your vacation, make sure you've made a list (and checked it twice) of dog-friendly winter destinations.
Or, better yet, just check out this list of some of the best places to travel with your dog in the winter.
10 Dog-Friendly Winter Destinations That Your Pup Will Love
Snow Mountain Ranch
Located near Rocky Mountain National Park and Grand Lake in Colorado, this 5,000 square foot ranch is one of the YMCAs of the Rockies, offering incredible sites, cozy accommodations, and fun winter activities. You can cross-country ski, sled, or just curl up by the fireplace in your cabin. The ranch offers several different types of rooms in which up to two pets can join you, including two to five-bedroom cabins or rooms in Indian Peaks Lodge. You can check out their guest guide for their pet policy.
Barkwells
With a name like Barkwells, how can you not be dog-friendly? Located in the western North Carolina Mountains, this 8-acre cabin resort features 8 cozy cabins complete with doggy doors, so your canine pal can come and go as he pleases. And, you don’t have to worry about your pup getting lost because each cabin includes its own private, fenced-in yard. Plus, the entire resort is fenced in, so your pup can run around to his heart’s delight, and you don’t have to worry.
St. Regis Aspen Resort
Have you ever heard of skijoring? It’s when a horse, or in this case a dog, pulls you along on your skis. Do you want to give this unique winter sport a try? You can do it at the elegant St. Regis in Aspen, where a professional dog trainer will teach you and your pup the ropes. The resort offers special packages and activities for its doggy guests, plus it also raises money to help support local shelters and rescues.
Heathman Hotel
If your winter travels take you to trendy Portland, Oregon, then make your reservations for this iconic and artistic hotel. Upon check-in, your canine pal will be treated like royalty with a special welcome package complete with a dog bowl and dog bed, and you’ll get a list of pet resources to enjoy throughout the area.
Tenaya Lodge
With absolutely breathtaking scenery that literally sparkles in the winter with frozen waterfalls and snow-dipped pine trees, this award-winning lodge in Yosemite National Park is not to be overlooked. Don't miss out on the generous Deluxe Pampered Pet Package available beginning January 1, 2021.
The Little Nell
If you want to treat your pup to a luxury stay in Aspen, then the Little Nell has you covered with its unique pup packages, incredible sights, and thoughtful touches. The staff is ready to welcome you and your furry friend with dog-centered perks, like a special pup menu, and a guide to all of the nearby dog-friendly trails. The resort even offers a puppy jet lag kit to help your pooch get acclimated to the altitude.
Nemacolin Woodlands
Located in Farmington, Pennsylvania, this luxury getaway offers a variety of lush accommodations for you and your canine companion. The resort features a world-class doggy daycare service, so you can partake in all of the activities, from cross-country skiing to art classes to relaxing in the spa, while your dog has the time of his life.
Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
This wilderness retreat nestled in the Adirondack Mountains welcomes dogs of all sizes to stay and play with their human companions. There is a special floor of the lodge reserved for guests with pets, and the lodge donates 10% of each stay to the local shelter or humane society.
But, what if your idea of a winter vacation involves no snow and ice? Sometimes, you might want to escape the icy chill of winter for a sunny stay complete with palm trees and beaches. If this sounds like the kind of trip you want to take, then check out these dog-friendly resorts.
Viceroy Santa Monica
Sometimes, winter isn’t all about skiing and dusting off your snowshoes. If you’d rather spend your winter in a warmer climate, then book your stay at the Viceroy. This extremely dog-friendly hotel offers special pet-sitting and dog-walking services, as well as a unique menu that’s perfect for a Fido foodie.
Margaritaville Beach House Key West
This dog-friendly Key West resort features plenty of island-fun for everyone. Whether you want an active holiday filled with jet skis and kayaks, or you simply want to relax poolside with a fruity cocktail, you can find it here in this posh resort. Check out their pet policy for more information.
Tips for Traveling with Your Dog in the Winter
If you’ll be traveling with your pets, it’s essential to make some extra preparations so both you and your canine companion can enjoy your time together.
Plan Ahead — If going on a road trip, schedule in extra travel time for necessary stops for things like potty breaks and letting your pooch run off some energy. If flying, ensure you’ve checked with the airline ahead of time for any particular guidelines and restrictions. Some airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin as long as the flight-approved pet carrier can fit under the seat in front of you. You will need to purchase a ticket for your furry friend, but it’s typically a set fee and not the same as a full-price ticket.
Pack What You Need — Pack your pup’s belongings, things like his favorite toy, leash and collar, food and treats, and any necessary medications. It’s worth asking the hotel or lodge ahead of time what they provide to their canine guests. Many dog-friendly resorts offer pet packages that include a dog bed, pet bowls, and even special toys, either for a small fee or even complimentary. If you’re traveling somewhere with chilly temperatures, pack adequate protection for your pup, like a doggy coat or boots, especially if your dog isn’t a fan of the cold. You also should bring proof of your dog’s recent vaccinations in case you need to show it to anyone during your travels.
Pre-Travel To-Dos — In addition to packing your dog’s suitcase, there are a few extra things you should do before leaving on a big trip. Ensure your pup is up to date on all of his shots and well-visits with his vet to verify that he’s healthy enough for travel. Also, make sure you take him for a walk before you get in the car or board the plane, so he can get in some last-minute exercise and use the bathroom. If your dog tends to get overly anxious or stressed when traveling, discuss options with your vet ahead of time, like a calming spray or supplement.
As long as you take the time to plan and prepare, bringing your best friend along with you on your winter vacation can be lots of fun. There are plenty of dog-friendly winter destinations that not only welcome your furry pal but are ready to cater to his every doggy desire. For more resources on how to spend the holidays with your pets or tips on how to take care of your faithful friends, check out the rest of our blog. Our goal at Neater Pets is to be your one-stop-shop for everything you need to know to raise healthy, happy pets.