12 handy tips for traveling with your pup

While it’s great that so many Colorado destinations are catering to pups these days, there are still a few things to keep in mind while traveling with your fur-children.

Here are 12 expert tips to make your next dog-friendly vacation go as smoothly as possible.

Clean up

This one should go without saying, but remember to clean up after your pets when they do their business. Just because you’re on vacation does not mean you can get out of this chore. Most hotels will provide you with poop bags or have pet cleanup stations located on the property.

Ask for advice

If you’re visiting an area that you’re not familiar with, be sure to ask the front desk for advice on dog parks, dog-friendly trails and day care facilities. “We love to share where to take dogs for walks, where the best trails are in both winter and summer,” said Robert Purdy, general manager of Viceroy Snowmass.

Consider housekeeping

If you’re going to leave your dog in the room for the day, alert the housekeeping staff that he’ll be there or ask them to come at a later time, when you can take the dog for a walk. Depending on the hotel, the front desk may also be willing to hang out with your dog for a while so the housekeeping crew can spruce up your room.

Don’t hide your dog

Be sure to let the hotel know that you’re bringing a dog with you, says Chris Guse, general manager of Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver. That way, they won’t be surprised to find an animal in your room and they can offer you all the pet-friendly amenities they offer, he says. And if you forget something at home, don’t hesitate to ask the hotel staff for help.