More Americans than ever before are planning to vacation with their pets. In fact, 7 in every 10 people reported that they planned to travel with their pet last year. But traveling with your dog or cat is a bit more complicated than planning a vacation without them. From finding a hotel or vacation rental that allows pets to packing any gear they might need, pet owners have a lot to consider.
Thinking about traveling to Utah with your pet this year? Keep reading to learn a few essential tips for traveling with pets, and how to find pet-friendly Southern Utah vacation rentals.
Finding Pet-Friendly Southern Utah Vacation Rentals
One of the hardest things to do when planning a trip with your furry family member is find pet-friendly accommodations. Finding a hotel that allows pets is getting easier every year. In fact, it’s estimated that around 75 percent of hotels today allow pets. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that your search for a hotel or vacation rental that allows pets will be easy.
Often, the hotels that allow pets are larger chains, which may not be widely available in destinations like Southern Utah. Even then, chain hotels may leave the decision on whether or not to allow pets up to the individual locations, which can make it tough to get a clear answer on whether your beloved pet is allowed. While it’s normal for hotels to charge a pet fee to cover the additional cleaning needed, for some hotels, this fee is as much as a night at the hotel—or even more. And figuring out what this fee will be before you get to your destination is sometimes a challenge.
Finding pet-friendly Southern Utah vacation rentals can be even harder. Many vacation rentals on sites like Airbnb don’t allow pets or make it tough to figure out whether a rental does.
At Water Canyon Resort, we make it easy to travel with your dog. Our dog-friendly Southern Utah vacation rentals are easy to book, and we charge a flat rate of $50 per pet, per stay, so you’ll know exactly what to expect when you arrive.
Visiting National Parks With Pets
After booking a pet-friendly Utah resort, it’s time to start planning how you’ll spend your trip. If you’ve previously visited Southern Utah and had a chance to explore Zion National Park, you might be thinking about making a return visit. But before you do, it’s important to understand the restrictions in place for pets visiting national parks, including Zion.
Every national park has its own rules about where pets can and cannot go. In Zion National Park, pets are allowed into the park. However, they can’t ride the shuttle buses, enter public buildings, or hike on most trails. The only trail that they are allowed on is the Pa’rus Trail. Dogs must remain on a leash at all times, and pet owners are responsible for cleaning up any messes.
Dogs that are properly restrained are allowed along public roads and in parking spaces. So if you’re hoping to see Zion during your visit, your best option is to drive the Upper Canyon and stop off at some of the many stunning overlooks you’ll find there.
Looking for Pet-Friendly Destinations
Most national parks don’t allow pets on hiking trails. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy some hiking with your dog during your visit! Pets are allowed in most Utah state parks, including on hiking trails. Coral Pink Sand Dunes and Quail Creek State Park both welcome dogs on their trails. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash that’s 6-feet long or shorter, and clean up after your pet while on the trails.
Closer to your pet-friendly Utah resort, Water Canyon Trail is another trail that allows dogs. This 6.7-mile out-and-back trail is considered a moderate hike, and is popular, which means you might face crowds during busy times of the year. But in the early morning or evening, or during the shoulder seasons, this trail is often empty. And in some areas, well-behaved dogs are even permitted to be off-leash.
Packing for Your Pet
Just as it’s important to pack the right gear for your outdoor adventure, you’ll also want to make sure that you’re packing some key items for your pet.
If you plan to do any hiking during your trip, consider bringing a pet first aid kit along. Just like you, your dog will consume more water while hiking, especially on challenging trails or when the temperature climbs. Make sure to pack more water than you think they’ll need. For longer hikes, consider bringing treats or food along to help them stay energized.
It’s also important to bring the right gear for your Utah resort. To help your pet feel more relaxed, consider bringing comfort items, like their bed, blankets, or favorite toys. Pack food and water bowls to use in the room as well.
Important Things to Remember When Traveling With Pets
Bringing your pet along with you on vacation for the first time can be intimidating. A few important things to remember that can help your trip go more smoothly include:
- Bring printed copies of your dog’s vet records, just in case you have to visit a vet or animal hospital during your trip.
- If you’ll be flying with your pet for the first time or taking your first long road trip with your dog, talk to your vet ahead of time. If your dog is prone to getting anxious, they may be able to prescribe a medication to help them stay calm on your journey.
- Even if your pet is used to being left at home alone, your vacation rental is an unfamiliar spot for them. Avoid leaving your pet unattended at any time, to avoid damage to the room and unnecessary stress for your pet.
- Planning a long vacation with your dog for the first time? Consider making a shorter trial run first. Stay in a local hotel or plan a weekend getaway. This can help make the experience less scary for your pet and can let you know about any behaviors you might experience during a longer trip.
Planning Your Stay at Pet-Friendly Southern Utah Vacation Rentals
Don’t want to leave your furry friend at home during your next vacation? With pet-friendly Southern Utah vacation rentals and these tips, you don’t have to! From visiting state parks that allow dogs to packing the right gear, these tips can help ensure that both you and your pup enjoy a safe and fun getaway.
Summer is almost here, which means that spots are filling up fast at the best Southern Utah vacation rentals. Book your pet-friendly cabin today to start planning your own summer adventure!