Top Pet Travel Safety Tips: Keeping Your Furry Friend Protected

We know you LOVE your fur baby and so do we! We want to make sure they have an enjoyable time on vacation and to do so, safety is a #1 priority. If you're bringing your fur baby with you on your romantic mountain vacation at Meraki Escape, this is for you.

Here are 3 tips on keeping them safe during travel. Please review our pet policy before booking a reservation.

Getting There

Use a Pet Carrier or Crate if Necessary

A well-ventilated, appropriately sized carrier or crate is essential for pet travel safety. It should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Secure the carrier with a seatbelt in your car to prevent movement during sudden stops.

Bring Toys/Treats to Keep them Entertained

Travel with an assortment of entertainment such as tug and chew toys for dogs to help keep their mind busy and from feeling bored or isolated during the trip.   It's crucial for pets to have regular bathroom breaks and stretch their legs, just like humans.

We recommend stopping every two to four hours.  Keep your pet hydrated throughout the trip but avoid feeding them a large meal right before traveling to prevent motion sickness. Offer small amounts of water regularly to keep them comfortable.

Take Frequent Breaks

If you're traveling by car, plan to stop every 2-3 hours for bathroom breaks and exercise. Always use a leash when taking your pet out of the vehicle to prevent them from running off in unfamiliar surroundings. If you're traveling with a companion, have them take the dog out to go potty and stretch their legs while you grab some snacks.

In North Carolina, it is illegal to leave your pet in the car in conditions like extreme heat, cold or without proper ventilation.

Flew & Tick Prevention

Even if you won't be doing too much hiking, plan ahead to protect your dog against picking up some unwelcome visitors. Flea and tick protection is required to protect your pet, and our cabins.

There is no way to control what your dog might encounter while using the bathroom or going on hikes with you. Flea/tick protection helps assure your pet is healthy and safe, and that your pet doesn't bring any pests back to your home. Nature here may have more insects than your dog normally encounters, please protect your pets!

Packing For Your Dog

This is your pet's vacation too and its important to maker sure they have all they need! It can be overwhelming for some dogs to go to new places with unfamiliar scents. Be sure your packing list includes food, prescription medications, leashes, collars, paperwork, pet first aid kit and any other supplies to keep your pet happy while at the cabin.

We supply a dog crate but no bed so bring your dogs favorite bed so they feel familiar and safe while at the cabin. This also helps to give your furry friend something they recognize and familiar to put them at ease.

Make a Note of Nearby Pet Hospitals

24 Hour Animal Hospital and Veterinarian Service  

Should your dog experience an emergency while here, there is an excellent 24 hour Animal Hospital in Asheville (about an hour away).

MedVet Asheville

• 677 Brevard Rd, Asheville, NC 28806
• 828-665-4399

Local Animal Hospital

• 8am - 5:30pm
• During business hours, they welcome pet emergencies and encourage you to call or go right in.

Brevard Animal Hospital

• 1985 Asheville Highway, Brevard, NC 28712
• 828-883-8105

Pet Supply Store

If you've forgotten something for your dog, or need additional supplies or food, there is a great little pet supply store in downtown Brevard.
The Grateful Dog.  They carry the best in toys, treats, and nutrition for your beloved companions.  277 N. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712.

We Love Furry Friends at Meraki Escape

Our mountain cabin rentals have all of the essentials for you and your pooch too!

• Dog Crate (no bed)
• Pooch Bin with toys
• Bowls for food and water
• Muddy Paws Washing Bin
• Pet Drying Towel
• Ukiyo: FENCED yard
• Cynefin: Potty Area near the cabin
  

Meraki Escape is the perfect place for a zero-stress vacation getaway with your four-legged family members! There are endless opportunities for pet-friendly adventures in our back yard, the Land of Waterfalls, and Western North Carolina.  We look forward to welcome you and your partner and your 4-legged friend at our luxury cabins!