Making Etiquette Easy: Do We Take the Dog on Holiday?

I don't know about you, but we have a dog. Since we have no children, our dog might as well be our child. He's pampered, knows it and completely deserves it. We rescued him from a shelter almost two years ago and it's been mutual love (and dog licks) ever since. During busy holiday travel times, the question always comes up between my husband and me, "do you think we can take Duke to so and so's house?"

Taking an animal with you to Grandma's (or Aunt Buffy's) house can be a little tricky. So here are some things to consider before deciding to bring along the "other" member of the family:

• Whatever you do, make sure you ask permission to bring your pet wherever you are going. If there's hesitation in the response, but you still want to bring your animal along, look into a kennel or pet resort in the area you are visiting. Call soon as they book-up fast.
• Even though you’ll only be with ‘family,’ you need to be cognizant of everyone’s needs. Not everyone loves your dog as much as you do, and just because no one has mentioned an allergy to dogs (or cats) doesn’t mean you shouldn’t inquire yourself. Pets are like people in many ways, and you wouldn’t show up to someone’s home with an ‘extra’ guest for any other occasion.
• If you do decide to bring your pet, make sure you’re well prepared. Carrying cases, leashes, plenty of food (asking to feed your pet from the table or pantry gets old fast), and bowls ensure that the host home doesn’t have to put their nice china out on the floor.
• Always keep plastic bags and clean-up materials handy. Even though ‘it just wipes right up,’ not everyone is comfortable with shedding hair or animals accidentally using the restroom in their home. Perhaps that’s why they don’t have one—or why they keep their pet outside. Be aware of the noise and smell of your animal, especially when inside a home.
• Lastly, if you do take your pet to someone's home for the holidays - or anytime - consider leaving a gift certificate or arranging for a cleaning service to come and clean their home after all the company is gone. Trust me, you - and Fido - will be welcomed back.

And if you decide to leave your pet at home, send them off for a ‘vacation’ too at your local groomer or pet resort!

Making Etiquette Easy,

Susan K. Medina