10 Tips for the Pet Lover Traveling to Las Vegas

People love Las Vegas. The food, the gambling, the nightlife and the attractions make Las Vegas an extremely popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Some people just don't feel complete unless they bring along their closest companions and these companions are sometimes animals. I once drove from Montana to Las Vegas with two cats in a car with a dysfunctional air conditioner and I learned a great deal along the way. Here are 10 tips to ensure you and your pets have a great time while traveling to Las Vegas.

1. Keep them cool! Whether you plan to drive or fly, you will need to take the necessary precautions well ahead of time. If you are driving to Las Vegas, you will need to make sure your air conditioner works well and give your pets frequent stops to drink as well as take care of business somewhere other than in your vehicle. If you are flying, check with the airline to see if there will be any delays that might keep your animal stuck in their carrier for a long period of time. If so, buy a water dispenser that can attach to the carrier.

2. Know where to stay. The high end hotels will not allow pets so you will have to check around for alternative places to stay. Many motels on the strip such as the Travelodge will allow pets but you will have to pay an extra deposit depending on the size of your pet. Las Vegas caters to almost every person and that includes those with pets but you should book your room well in advance.

3. Board them. There are many facilities in Las Vegas that will take great care of your pets so you can enjoy the attractions and events that will not allow you to have a pet with you. They may offer day long or week long boarding options depending on your plans.

4. Don't forget their medications. Some pets require certain medicines that their veterinarian may prescribe. Make sure you don't get all the way to Las Vegas only to realize you have left your crazy dog's anti-psychotic pills on your kitchen counter.

5. Research activities you can do with your pets. Las Vegas often has dog shows, contests, or just fun events where people in the community bring their pets and have a great day. This isn't restricted to just Las Vegas locals and can be a lot of fun for you and your pet. It beats leaving them in the motel room alone while you see the sights too.

6. Make sure your pet is groomed for hot weather. An often overlooked issue is the fact that some dogs are bred to live in the snow. If you have a furry breed, make sure to get them a nice shave or trim before you head off to Las Vegas with them. Imagine wearing a fur coat in 100 degree weather. That's gotta be rough.

7. Plan your Las Vegas trip for the winter. The winter, though not technically the off season, is considerably cooler than mid-July. Your pets will thank you and you may be able to get cheaper rates on airfare and hotel reservations.

8. Bring toys. Most pets will feel more secure with some of their favorite toys or something to chew on. You don't want your dog chewing up anything in your motel room that you may be charged for.

9. Bring a friend. If you are vacationing in Las Vegas, you may find it more fun to bring someone with you. They can bring their pets also. This way, both you and your pet will have a familiar face around.

10. Don't bring your pets. Unless you are moving to Las Vegas, there really isn't much of a reason to bring your pets at all. Even if you are gone for one week, your pet will be happy to see you when you get home and won't hold a grudge. Have a family member, friend, or coworker watch them or stop by your house each day to look after them.