Unlocking New Markets: A Step-by-Step Guide to Expansion

Let’s face it, traveling solo is great, but traveling with your dog? That’s a whole new level of fun! For those of you who don’t know, I’m a proud dog mom to Francis, my curly ball of fluff who’s been with me through countless adventures. Whether it’s hiking through the mountains or exploring hidden city gems, Francis is always by my side, tail wagging and ready for the next adventure. Traveling with him has taught me so much about patience, planning, and, most importantly, how to enjoy the little things.

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Preparation is Everything

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Traveling with a dog requires a bit more planning, but it’s totally worth it! Before heading out on any trip, I make sure Francis has everything he needs. This includes packing his essentials:

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• A portable water bowl
• His favorite treats
• A comfy travel bed
• Extra leash and harness
• Poop bags (lots of them!)

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I also always check in advance to see if the places we’re visiting are dog-friendly. Whether it’s a hotel, café, or hiking trail, knowing where your dog is welcome makes the journey stress-free for both of you.

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Keep Them Comfortable

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One of the biggest challenges can be the actual journey — whether it’s a road trip or a flight. Francis isn’t the biggest fan of long car rides, but I’ve found a few tricks to keep him comfortable. First, I make sure he’s had a good walk before we set off to help burn off some of his energy. Then, I make plenty of pit stops to let him stretch his legs, and I keep his favorite blanket or toy in the car to give him a sense of home.

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If we’re flying, I opt for pet-friendly airlines that allow Francis to travel in the cabin with me. A little prep goes a long way in making sure your dog is happy and calm during transit!

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Of course, being a photographer, I can’t resist capturing the cutest shots of Francis during our travels.

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Stay in Dog-Friendly Accommodations

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Not all hotels and Airbnbs are dog-friendly, so I always make sure to double-check before booking. Over the years, I’ve found some fantastic dog-friendly stays, from cozy cabins in the woods to beachside bungalows where Francis could roam freely. Some places even offer special amenities for pets, like dog beds, toys, and treats — talk about living the good life!

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When staying in a new place, I give Francis time to get used to the new environment. I bring along familiar items, like his blanket and toys, so he feels right at home. After all, happy dog, happy trip!