Dog Packing Checklist for Travel to the Rockies

When travelling to the Canadian Rockies, the specific needs and requirements of your pet should always be at the forefront of your mind. Staying at a pet-friendly hotel like the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre will provide a safe, warm place for your dog, but you still need to pack a few dog travel essentials. This dog packing checklist can help.

Key Takeaways:

• Bring any necessary medication for your dog to avoid inconvenience. 
• Pack enough dog food, especially for picky eaters, if driving. 
• Remember the leash for both off-leash areas and public spaces. 
• Carry a recent photo of your pet and microchip details in case of separation. 
• Include clean-up bags for waste during the trip.
• Bring favorite toys for comfort and entertainment. 
• Book a pet-friendly hotel in advance, like the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre. 
• Plan activities with your dog in advance for a better experience. 
• Prepare your dog for travel with short car rides or crate time.

Why a Dog Packing Checklist?

Having your pet with you on a vacation to the Canadian Rockies can make every step of the experience feel a little more special, but not everyone knows how to travel with a dog. You’ll want them to feel comfortable and happy throughout the trip, and you won’t want to spend time shopping for items you forgot instead of enjoying your vacation. A dog packing checklist ensures you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your trip with you before you leave.

What Should I Pack When Travelling with My Dog?

Any Medication Your Dog Needs

If your dog has any medical requirements, making sure they come with you on your trip should be at the top of your dog packing checklist. While you may be able to pop in at a veterinarian and get replacements, this can be inconvenient and time-consuming. 

Instead, be sure you bring all the medication your dog regularly needs so that they stay happy and healthy.

Food

You’ll be able to buy dog food when you arrive, and that may be more convenient for anyone who is flying, but anyone who is taking a road trip to the Canadian Rockies should make sure they’ve packed plenty of food for their animals. 

This is particularly crucial for dogs who are picky eaters. You may not be able to find the specific brand of dog food they rely on, so it’s best to bring some along.

Your Dog’s Leash

Canmore has 5 terrific off-leash areas, from small community parks where your pet can socialize to expansive areas where dogs can exercise and explore. There are also family-friendly hikes and trails that will take you right to the highest alpine points. 

It’s important to remember, though, that dogs must be kept on their leash when they’re in any public space other than those that are specifically designated as off-leash.

Your pet will have endless opportunities to get the exercise it needs, but your leash should be at the top of your dog packing checklist so that you can properly explore everything the Canadian Rockies have to offer without worrying about breaking rules or run-ins with wildlife.

A Recent Photo of Your Dog 

This is purely precautionary, but make sure you bring a recent picture of your pet just in case you get separated—the ones on your smartphone will work. It’s best to prepare for a scenario in which you and your pet get separated so that you can identify them. 

The same goes for any other identifiers you use for your dog. Make sure you have your pet’s microchip number readily available, as well as the monitoring company's phone number.

Clean-Up Bags

You can definitely buy bags to clean up after your dog when you arrive in the Canadian Rockies, but make sure you include a few on your dog packing checklist for the journey to and from the mountains. 

Toys

Bringing your dog’s favourite toys along can make them feel comfortable and a little more at home when everything else feels new. Bringing toys along will also give your pet something to keep themselves entertained during the inevitable periods when you need a little break.

What to Do Before You Leave

There are a few things you can do before you depart on your trip that are separate from dog packing but will still ensure that you and your pet have an amazing vacation together in the Canadian Rockies. 

Book a Pet-Friendly Hotel

The Canadian Rockies are a pet-friendly destination, but it’s important that you book a hotel that allows dogs to stay with you in your room. We are truly a pet-friendly hotel and love it when guests bring their furry friends along for their stay, welcoming dogs of all sizes. 

There’s a $25 charge per pet, per day. On arrival, pet owners and their dogs will receive:

• A soft pet bed
• A pet bowl for food and water
• A locally-sourced pet treat 

Book Activities

Whether it’s some time at a Doggy Day-Care, meals at one of Canmore’s many pet-friendly restaurants, trips up the mountains or to one of the town’s 5 off-leash areas, there’s a lot to do with your dog. Get organized in advance so you can make the most of your time in the Canadian Rockies.

Get Your Pet Travel-Ready

This doesn’t need to be arduous, but if you’re going on a long road trip to Canmore or Banff, it can be helpful to take a few shorter drives with your pet so they get used to being in a car for extended periods. If you’re taking them on the plane and they’ll be spending hours in a crate, make sure it’s not the first time they’ve been in one for a while. 

Most dogs travel well, though, so make sure you check everything off your dog packing checklist and start getting excited.

Stay at a Pet-Friendly Hotel That Cares

Finding the right pet-friendly accommodations can make all the difference when you bring your dog on a trip. Staying at the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre will make your pet feel like a valued guest. Book your stay today!

FAQ

Is Canmore pet-friendly?

Canmore is absolutely pet-friendly. There are many restaurants where you can bring your dog on the patio, countless hikes and 5 off-leash areas. Pack the right dog travel essentials, and you’ll find that the Canadian Rockies are an amazing destination to take a trip with your pet.

How long is too long to drive with a dog?

This will likely depend on your dog itself. Some experts say 7 hours is the longest you should drive with your dog in the car, but even then, it is important to take regular breaks so they can get the exercise they need.

What are the best pet-friendly travel tips?

When traveling with pets, plan ahead by researching pet-friendly accommodations, packing essentials like food and a leash, and ensuring your pet is safe and comfortable during the journey. Don’t forget to consider their temperament and stay aware of local regulations at your destination.