Wyndham Wisdom

Dogs Allowed

Bonnie Murman-Freer is a self-described "mother of four": two kids, two dogs. She takes her family responsibilities seriously, making semi-regular cross-country jaunts from her home in Naperville, Illinois, with her sons and either Lucy or Bear, both golden retrievers. "Maybe I give my dogs a better life than most people do," Murman-Freer says, "but I don't think it's right to leave your dog behind when you travel." Freer is hardly alone: 29 million people took their furry sidekicks on a road trip over a recent three-year period, according to the Travel Industry Association of America.

Want to travel with your dog? Here's a checklist.

• Build a list of possible pet-friendly resorts using online resources such as dogfriendly.com, PetsWelcome.com and www.RCI.com.
• Don't assume. Some resorts might not advertise it, but do allow small pets (say, less than 25 lbs.).
• When you book, ask about weight restrictions, additional fees and the availability of "doggie day care."
• If you're going abroad, learn about your destination's regulations and bring required proof of vaccinations.
• When packing, remember your pet's special diet, medications, identifying documents and, of course, favorite toys.
• One last tip from Murman-Freer: "Put the car window down so their fur ruffles in the breeze and they can smell smells they've never smelled before."

Published: Endless Vacation July/August 2008 Issue