When you and the family make plans to get out of dodge, there’s a lot to get ready and plan for in order for your vacation to go off without a hitch. Chances are, making arrangements for your furry family members are on the list of things to figure out. Optimally, your dog or cat joins you on your travels, but bringing pets along for the ride takes time and planning ahead. If you are getting ready for your spring or summer vacation, take a few minutes to check out our tips for trips to Mt. Rainier with pets. Then grab Fido and the kids, and get ready to go, go, go!

Time for an Exam

When was the last time you took your four-legged friend in to see the doc? If it’s been a while, now is the time to schedule a visit. In general, it’s good to know your pet is up for travels. However, if you are planning on putting them on a plane, it’s a non-negotiable task. Make sure all vaccinations are current and you will need a health certificate from your vet.

Buy a Crate

A crate is one of the safest options for a pet on the go whether in the car or on the road. The crate should be big enough for your pet to stand up, lie down, and turn around in comfortably. Make sure it is lined with comfortable bedding and don’t forget to let them bring a favorite toy.

Update the Jewelry

Make sure your favorite furball’s best piece of jewelry is up to date. We are talking about their ID tag. Have you moved since the last time you bought them a tag? You will want to be easily contacted should you become separated from your best friend.

Buckle Up

If you aren’t comfortable keeping your pet crated during a car ride then you will need to buy them a harness that can be attached to a seatbelt. It will protect them should you get into a fender bender or hit big bumps. And even though it looks super fun, don’t let your pet stick their head outside the window while it’s in motion. It just takes one big bump to leave them with an aching head or neck.

Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations

This can be super challenging. It’s not easy to find places that accept pets and when you do, often times they don’t seem super pet-friendly. It can be hard to find a place to let them run or go to the bathroom, and you have to bring all of their supplies from home to make sure their needs are met.

If you are visiting Mt. Rainier, you are in luck. Three Bears Lodge has four pet-friendly cabins. And when we say “pet-friendly” we mean it. Each of these cabins has a spacious yard for dogs to roam, some of them are even fenced. In addition, we supply our guests with a doggie basket, which includes dog tags with the cabin address and phone number, dog towels, a sticky roller for hair removal, dog treats, and plastic baggies. We also provide a washable dog bed and food & water bowls. A large dog crate is provided for your convenience as well. Planning is easy when you stay with us.

Things To Consider When Bringing Your Pet to Mt. Rainier While at Mt. Rainier National Park, there are a few rules you must follow with your pet.

• Pet’s must be on leash at all times
• Owners are responsible for picking up their pets waste
• Pets aren’t allowed on trails, in the wilderness, or inside buildings. The one exception to this rule is on The Pacific Crest Trail

While you can’t take your dog on the trails inside Mt. Rainier National Park, there are several stunning hiking options that give you incredible views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams and other peaks in the Ashford area right outside of the park. Check out the Mt. Tahoma Trails featured in our Hike the Huts article. You can also use Washington Trails Association Hike Finder for more options, and there are plenty of small trails around the Three Bears Cabins pet-friendly cabins your family to explore.