By Jeff Cummins - First in a series of articles on Traveling with Pets. So you’ve decided it’s time to take a vacation. Your bags are packed, and you’ve got your itinerary mapped out, but there’s one important question you still have to answer: What are you going to do with your pet?

Well, of course you want to bring him or her along. It wouldn’t be a real vacation if you couldn’t share it with Fido your dog or even Sasha your cat.

But there are some things you should research in advance, including regulations, restrictions and helpful hints, all of which are out there, ready for the taking. All you really have to do is look for information. Now, GettingOutside.com makes this a little easier for you, in this continuing series on Traveling with Your Pet.

One of the most important places to start is just determining the right questions you should ask. Where can you find a reliable veterinarian on the road? What are the best methods to deal with any sudden illnesses your pet might develop on the road? What is the best method to deal with pet maintenance issues on the road? What should you do if your pet gets lost while you’re traveling?

The Basic, Common Sense Tips of Traveling with Pets

If you’re driving somewhere with your pet, the ASPCA warns that it’s vital to remember that your pet can easily suffer from dehydration. Pets should always have plenty of clean, fresh water available, as well as a nice, shady spot to rest and cool off. When you stop at a rest stop, remember never to leave your pet alone in a parked car – even with the windows cracked - which can easily generate so much heat that pets are placed in danger.

No pet owner wants to lose their pet while they’re on vacation, and pet security is a serious matter for all pet owners. Each pet should have an identifying tag or collar, including proper license and shot tags, that can help pet owners or authorities identify the animal if it gets lost or separated from its owner. The use of microchips to identify a pet is another option that some pet owners might want to consider.

No Room at the Inn for Spot?

Editor’s Note: Remember when you bring you animal out into the public domain, you are an ambassador for all pet owners. Good pet behavior starts with good owners. Many managers of outdoor lodging establishments have had bad experiences with pets and pet owners. Know your pet’s temperament. Can he be trusted around strange people and other animals? Be respectful of all you come in contact with, and be cautious.

For those who are using hotels, there are other factors that must be considered. If you’re staying at a lodge, B&B or other accommodation, there are thousands of resorts that are “pet-friendly,” and finding them is as simple as performing a standard search on GettingOutside.com or calling ahead.

Naturally, there are some basics to remember. Each pet should have its own portable pet carrier, and most places require a leash no longer than 6 feet long for dogs. Most pets benefit from certain comforts of home, so bringing along familiar items such as playthings or blankets will help to make your pet feel more at home.

Camping with Your Dog

For the avid camper, the good news is that some public campsites still welcome pets – to one degree or another. Pets are permitted in National Forest campgrounds, as long as they are on a leash.

There are only 29 states with campgrounds that permit pets, including Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin all have campgrounds that allow pets.

In Canada, pet-friendly campgrounds can be found in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and Prince Edward Island. Some campsites require pets to be on a leash, while others do not. It’s important to check with your campsite to determine its requirements before embarking on your trip.

Can Your Dog Swim?

Dog owners who love the beach will be pleased to learn that there are beaches that welcome dogs, though the regulations vary from location to location, so it’s important to contact the beach you want to visit before making the trip.

Regardless of where you’re going, the most important thing you can do for your pet is to ask as many questions as possible. Most answers are easily found, and you’ll be surprised at how many options are available for pet owners who want to bring their pets along on vacation.

We’ll provide more tips on traveling with your pet in future columns. For now, enjoy the trip, and remember to plan ahead!