Do you feel that? That’s the Dog Days of Summer. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, those are the days between July 3 and August 11 – the 40 days after the Summer Solstice – and are “traditionally the hottest and most humid weeks of the year.” This stretch is likely also one of the busiest travel times, as it encompasses the Independence Day weekend and allows families to take “one more weekend getaway” before school resumes. But how best to tackle the heat when you also have the family pet in tow? Let’s find out.
Virginia Tourism Corporation consulted with a Richmond-based veterinarian to compile a list of best practices for traveling with your dog. According to Dr. Mark Gottschalk:
People love to bring their dog along on vacation, and the travel industry has taken notice. It’s easier than ever to find pet-friendly places to stay. Here are a few of our favorites in the Shenandoah Valley.
Dogs are welcome in many places, but sometimes it’s not entirely obvious. Let us share a non-exhaustive list of great recommendations.
This list of recommendations will surely get you and your dog pointed in the right direction, but it’s far from complete. There are many more pet-friendly places to stay, eat, and experience in the Shenandoah Valley; we like BringFido.com to dive even deeper and refine your search. Wishing you fun and safe travels!
Header Image: Hazel Mountain Overlook, Shenandoah National Park. Photo by Samantha Brooke, IG account: @samanthabrookephoto; courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation.
