taking small dog on vacation to CA but barking ruins, suggestions please (hotel, home)

[sengle1013]

hi all, i have a small dog that we like to take on vacation with us. when we're around, not a peep out of her. in fact, she stayed in her little pet bag/carrier on our trip to ft lauderdale from phx, 5.5 hours, not a peep out of her. when we go out or go to work (at home) we crate her and she makes not a peep and goes to sleep. however, when we crate her outside of our house, and leave, she howls and barks like crazy, it makes it really difficult to take her without actually taking her everywhere we go. disneyland is a no brainer because for $20 we can board her there during the day, at night is no problem because we're all together again. does anyone have any suggestions about controlling this seperation anxiety/crying barking? it only happens outside of our house.. i know i know, well board her at home! sure, could do that, but why not find a solution. anyway, i just have a feeling i am not alone in this and others might share what has worked for them. taking suggestions and thanks,

ps, another option is finding boarding in CA on the non disneyland days, we're staying in anaheim/la-ish area and appreciate suggestions. thx!

[observer53]

Taking the poor thing on vacation and then boarding her there doesn't seem like a good option for her or for you. I don't know how long you're planning on being gone, and I know you like having her with you, but I would leave her at home with a friend who can come and stay at your house, or have her stay at the friend's home. I would think she would be happier either way, and you can enjoy the places you'd like to go on your vacation that won't accommodate the dog, without worrying about how she's doing at the kennel or back at the hotel room. There is a medication that is supposed to help some (sort of doggie Prozac) but for real separation anxiety, I'm not sure it would be enough.

[Charles22]

Get one of those bark collars that shock the dog. After a few shocks they figure out pretty fast to be quiet.

[observer53]

Originally Posted by Charles22

Get one of those bark collars that shock the dog. After a few shocks they figure out pretty fast to be quiet.

She does not bark when they are there, only while they are gone. I don't think this is such a good idea for this type of situation.

[impala666]

Originally Posted by observer53

She does not bark when they are there, only while they are gone. I don't think this is such a good idea for this type of situation.

So it won`t get a shock.
Seems like a plan.
Some don't shock just vibrate.

[nmnita]

Originally Posted by observer53

She does not bark when they are there, only while they are gone. I don't think this is such a good idea for this type of situation.

I think taking her on vacation is a great idea if you can find a place to board her when you will be sight seeing. We love to travel with our little guy and he loves it as well. Luckily he isn't much of a barker, only when he sees the squirrels or deer in our yard.

Nita

[AlwaysSmiling]

I have a HUGE dog that does the same thing. Just recently started putting him on ace promezine. Excellent little tablet that calms him, and makes him a little sleepy. The anxiety is way worse for the dogs, so please put him on something - so said my vet.

[coyoteskye]

http://www.city-data.com/forum/dogs/
dog forum.

[sengle1013]

Originally Posted by coyoteskye

http://www.city-data.com/forum/dogs/
dog forum.

wow, thanks for all the responses everyone, oh, the trip is 3 days

[BayAreaHillbilly]

If it's a driving vacation and not a hot time of the year, bring the crate in the car / SUV / truck. A dog in a parking lot won't bother too many people with its barking. Obviously, provide bedding, food, water and a couple of toys. Also, do not expect the dog to hold for more than 6 or 7 hours (ideally less) - be kind.