Tips On Traveling With Your Pets From The Sky Steward

The Sky Steward, Gailen David

By Gailen David

[Gailen David is known as the The Sky Steward. He has appeared on TV as a Travel Expert, is the Jetiquette® Guru, and a Contributing Blogger for Welcome to Miami and the Beaches magazine.]

Traveling with your pets can be a truly civilized experience. Here is some information to make your next trip with your furry family member easy and enjoyable:

Before Departure

Get your pet used to traveling by transporting them around town in their carrier.

· Buy a carrier that allows your pet to move around comfortably and that suits their personality
· Socialize your pet as much as possible since he/she will be exposed to many people, sounds and even other animals when traveling.

Tip: Put their favorite toys and chews in their carrier and allow them to spend time in it at home.

Pets In The Sky

Check with your airline for their policy regarding travel with your furry family members. Here are the general guidelines:

· There is often a 20-pound limit, which includes pet and carrier
· Pet carrier dimensions of 13-inches high X 9-inches wide are acceptable
· Airlines usually limit two pets in the first class cabin and five in coach, so book early
· There will be a $75-$100 charge each way

Tip: To keep your pet hydrated, use a medicine dropper to provide small amounts of water to pet during the trip.

Pets In Hotels

There are more pet friendly hotels than ever.  Visit www.skysteward.com for a pet-friendly hotel directory and always check each hotel's website for their specific pet policies.

· Many hotels will charge a non-refundable pet deposit
· Pets must not be left unattended in room
· Pet-sitting is offered by some hotels
· Pet amenities (beds, treats, toys, etc.) are offered upon request in selected hotels

Tip: Upon arriving in hotel room, immediately place pee-pee pad on bathroom floor and spend some time allowing your pet to get acquainted with this area for “potty emergencies.”

For more information, please visit www.skysteward.com.

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Village of Merrick Park Celebrates Man’s Best Friend at the 3rd Annual Doggy Days of Summer Event on July 31

Village of Merrick Park knows it’s a dog’s world out there, and what better way to enjoy summer, than with the 3rd Annual Doggy Days of Summer event!! The festivities take place on Sunday July 31 from 2pm-6pm at Village of Merrick Park’s “The Garden,” located at 358 San Lorenzo Avenue, Coral Gables. For more information please call 305-529-0200.

The event will take place on Sunday, July 31 with a “Pooch-A-Palooza” of doggy-centric action including a dog parade in The Garden at 3pm. Proud dog owners will be able to show off their beloved furry friends and three winners will be selected to receive various prizes based on the categories of Best Attire, Best Personality and Most Appropriate Name.

Dog owners will be able to participate in the parade with a $5 donation to the Humane Society of Greater Miami. Every dog signed up to participate in the parade will also receive a doggy bandana to wear. The event will also feature an Adopt-a-Thon, where guests will be able to meet, greet and adopt dogs brought in by the Humane Society of Greater Miami. Representatives from the Humane Society will be on hand to help facilitate adoptions. Guests who donate new items from the Humane Society of Greater Miami’s Wish List will receive a complimentary Village of Merrick Park parking voucher. Items from the wish list include doggy bowls, beds, leashes, durable toys, grooming supplies and more.

Additionally, dog owners are invited to have their pooches strike a pose for a take-home framed photo with any purchase of $25 or more within the center. Guests will enjoy special treats and in-store promotions from participating restaurants and shops. Patrons are encouraged to bring along their dogs and dine al fresco at one of Village of Merrick Park’s many dog-friendly restaurants.

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