Prepare your dog for walking in winter when visiting Regina, Saskatchewan hotels. 

Some forethought should always be undertaken when it comes to travelling with a pet. This is especially true when it comes to travelling with pets to the Prairies in winter. We want our furry buddies to be warm and comfortable, but still have access to the outdoors for exercise and to do their business. Here, one of the pet-friendliest Regina hotels, the Comfort Suites, offers 4 winter travel tips for you and your best four-legged friend(s).

1. Don’t Stray Far From the Pack

Winter can come early to the Prairies, so if you are planning a trip with your pet to or through Saskatchewan anytime between October and April, it’s important to find accommodation that is not too far off the beaten track. This is especially important in case of any road closures due to accidents or for snow clearing. Look for Regina pet-friendly hotels that are located near major highways or that have easy access to the Trans Canada. The same goes if you are flying, as travel delays in winter can be common. A pet-friendly hotel that is easily accessible to Regina International Airport will be your saving grace.

2. Keep Those Paws Warm and Dry

Not only should you bring extra winter woollies, a toque, gloves, windbreaker, waterproof warm boots and long underwear when making your way to hotels in Regina in winter, you should also consider what to pack for your pet.

Make sure to put some or all of these items in your pet’s suitcase:

• Enough food for at least a 2-5 days
• Collapsible food and water bowls
• A wide-mouthed bottle and drybag to carry water in sub-zero temperatures
• Collar with ID attached
• Leash and muzzle if necessary
• Vaccination records
• Medications
• A warm blanket
• High visibility, reflective dog vest, as winter often means less light during the day
• Vaseline or other moisture barrier balm to protect your dog’s paws, or if your pet can stand wearing booties, bring them
• Washcloth and large towel to wash and dry your dog after exercising

3. Walk Out to Winter

Whether human or canine, it’s always important to stretch out the limbs and get hearts pumping. A little less-than-zero weather is not an excuse to stay idle. Before even starting the car for a road trip, make sure to go for a long leisurely walk with your pet and stop along the way for a quick stretch and bathroom break. The same goes for when staying at pet-friendly hotels suggested by TripAdvisor. Regina hotels that are located near dog parks or that have areas nearby for your pet to be able to relieve itself are highly recommended. As a bonus, see if the hotel has a fitness room or swimming pool for you get a little extra exercise as well.

4. Lighten the Load

Winter weather can be murder on your clothes. If going for that dog walk has muddied up your best pair of jeans, or if your pet’s towel or blanket is looking a little worse for wear, it helps to find accommodation with laundry services.

Not only does it offer pet-friendly accommodations, but the Regina Comfort Suites’ laundry facilities also feature coin-operated machines. And just in case mucky paws attack your best suit, you can also acquire same-day dry cleaning services.

For more information, read our blog: Travelling with Pets: Top Travel Tips from our Regina Hotel.