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Is travel going to the dogs?

Some 74% of U.S. households include companion pets, U.S. Census Bureau statistics show. Dogs, cats, horses, turtles, rabbits, you name it: Pets are popular these days in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. As their popularity has increased, a trend has developed: More and more people are refusing to leave on trips without their pets, in particular their dogs.

In the past, dog owners found themselves limited to economy hotels and campgrounds. Today, however, pet-friendly lodgings with amenities for dogs and other four-legged mates are on the rise.

"Several hotel chains have become pet friendly with programs that [provide] special bedding, food, water bowls, and temporary ID tags for pets at check-in," says Mary Lou Gross of Stargazer Travel. "Other hotels offer doggie bedding, robes, and turndowns treats for pets' beds. And other hotels even offer doggie day care and sessions with a pet masseuse or therapist." Moreover, their social lives are being addressed with "Doggie Happy Hours," where a hotel invites furry guests and their owners to mix and mingle over drinks and hors d'oeuvres. While humans are sampling the latest cocktail, pets commiserate over gourmet biscuits and treats.

Americans' ever-growing obsession with their pets has translated into huge sums of money being spent each year on everything from designer accessories and beds to day care and massages. It only was a matter of time before the travel industry entered the growing market. There are a number of membership-only websites that provide access to pet travel resources, such as databases of animal hospitals and vets across the U.S. The sites also feature pet lodging directories that include options for every type of traveler, from campsites to bed & breakfasts.

For travelers looking to share their vacation activities with their pets, several companies offer "pet trips," where the animals are part of the experience. These include owner/pet activities as well as "human only" events (pet sitting provided, of course). Other organizations offer "adventure trips" for pets and owners. These include canoeing with camping accommodations and meals, and come complete with park permits and doggie life jackets.

Most pet travel companies reserve the right to dismiss unruly or aggressive participants. Owners can expect to fill out detailed questionnaires before their pets are accepted.

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