travel with your pet

Loving dogs of all breeds live happily with their human families. Unfortunately, Breed-specific legislation, or BSL, place restrictions on "controversial" dog breeds. These can include (but are not limited to) "pit bulls", rottweilers, doberman pinschers, or mixes of these breeds.

People who own such breeds - or are considering adopting one - should take the extra step of researching local pet laws prior to adopting a dog, moving to a new city, or even travelling with their pet.

Many families bring their pets with them on holidays, staying in "pet-friendly" hotels, motels, cottages, and resorts. Here's a quick list of questions to ask your lodging if you plan to bring your pet along. Remember to always mention your pets when making reservations!

- Pet surcharges: Are any "pet fees" applicable to your stay? Is the fee per pet? Is the fee "per day" or "per stay"?

- Types of pets allowed: this is particularly important if you plan to travel with something other than a dog (many places permit dogs, but may not even permit cats, let alone reptiles, birds, and other pets).

DON'T:

     - Travel with pets who don't enjoy the experience, who are not fully housetrained, or who have behaviour or health issues that are not conducive to travel.

     - Allow pets to run towards or jump up on other guests.

     - Allow dogs to bark or otherwise disturb other guests.

     - Permit pets to lie on furniture or beds unless you
        - have the host or manager's permission
        - bring y