Bringing a dog along for a holiday stay? Make sure to plan

NEW YORK (AP) — Traveling with dogs can be stressful. Throw in holiday home stays at one of the most chaotic times of the year and double that stress for humans and animals alike — especially when hosts have pets of their own.

Large gatherings, unfamiliar smells and sounds, mixing older or sedate dogs with energetic pups, and introducing small children or cats to a dog with no prior exposure are among the issues that can spoil the experience or, worst case, cause physical harm.

But tensions can be dialed way down with a little preparation, said certified dog behaviorist Gabrielle Johnson of Richmond, Virginia. Knowing when to pull the plug and head for a pet-friendly hotel or boarder is also key.

“Certainly holidays can be a tricky time because everyone’s out of their routine, out of their schedule. We’re in tight spaces. Stress is high,” Johnson said.

Johnson warns that dogs that are typically fine at home may be pushed too far. Learning to read unusual body language is important.

“Things like yawning, licking their lips, turning away, looking away, freezing, getting tense,” they said. “We want to see soft, wiggly, loose, relaxed. If we see some of those (other) signs, it may be an indicator that it’s time to get our dog out of that situation.”

Taking a crate along is a great idea for already crate-trained dogs but don't try to force it for the first time, trainers said. Packing a bed and familiar blankets, toys, dishes, and food and treats are musts.

First-time introductions between dogs should be done on neutral ground, outdoors. The humans should plan ahead in case pets need to be separated, including considering baby gates, particularly when dogs are eating. Owners who suspect anxiety might be a problem could consider medication.

Nicole Ellis, a certified...