Tail-Wagging Experiences: A Haven for Pet-Friendly Vacations
By Arthus • Posted May 2 • 2024.
One of the things I love and enjoy most in life are pets; I simply adore animals, I mean all of them, but for obvious reasons, those with whom it’s easier to share a home and life, like dogs and cats. Honestly, I'm more of a cat person, but I truly believe that dogs are angels sent from heaven to help us in so many ways, even though we often don't deserve them. On the other hand, I think cats are little adorable devils, perfect in their awareness of their beauty—they are real jerks, but incredibly loving, though you have to earn that affection. I love them.
What would life be without them, right? Many people consider pets as another member of the family, with different duties and responsibilities perhaps, but undoubtedly family members. Well, families go on vacation together, so pets should go with them or at least that's how it should be, because we know that not everyone shares this same sentiment, but how can we leave our pets at home if they are part of the family? They should go with us. Fortunately, this is possible in La Paz, Mexico, a city where pets are more than welcome.
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But let's not forget that not all pets want to travel; cats might get very stressed on the trip and other types of animals might not even be allowed on the plane. If your pet gets too stressed, it’s better that they stay at home or in a nearby pet hotel, where they can receive all the attention they need. Also remember that La Paz in the summer is very hot, so you need to be prepared to keep your pet hydrated and protected from the sun. Don't get me wrong, people in La Paz have all kinds of dogs. I've seen huskies here in the middle of summer who just stay hydrated and have no problems, but they always need to have some shade or a place to shelter from the sun and cool off. Don’t forget that.
I know that pet-friendly policies vary from hotel to hotel or from one Airbnb to another, but generally, it's very possible to find pet-friendly accommodations here in La Paz, especially pet-friendly Airbnbs. Believe me, in La Paz, there are many dogs. In fact, in the evenings, you can often see many dogs walking along the boardwalk, enjoying the cool evening with their humans, showing off their beauty and sniffing other butts—just typical dog business. You don’t only see them on the boardwalk; in restaurants and bars, it’s also common to see them alongside their owners, and many of these places courteously provide a water bowl for them to refresh themselves. Obviously, this varies from place to place, but generally, they will always be welcomed.
Of course, on the incredible beaches of La Paz, you'll have great moments with your pet, where believe me, they will have as much fun as a child—swimming, running, barking, and being very happy. Just respect the rules, take care of their needs, and everyone will be happy. It's quite normal to see little dogs on the beaches of La Paz; the locals love them and also bring them to cool off in the sea for a while.
So, it is possible to bring your pets to a pet-friendly vacation here in La Paz, but there are certain precautions you should take to ensure both you and they have an incredible time. Here are some insider tips that will help you:
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Respect the Policies:
Even though places are pet-friendly, it doesn't mean you can neglect your pet. Even in these places, there are policies that we must follow.
Water and Shade:This actually applies to both humans and pets. In La Paz, especially in summer, it's always necessary to stay hydrated and have some shade available if we're going to be in one outdoor spot for a long time. Plus, if humans wear a hat to protect themselves from the sun, it wouldn’t be a bad idea for pets either.
Protect Their Paws:Walking with your pet is always a pleasant experience, and doing so with the spectacular scenery of this city even more so, but remember their paws are delicate. Therefore, consider protective booties or carrying them, because the ground they walk on may be too hot for them.
Use Pet Sunscreen:If you use sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, do the same for your pet with the same goal in mind.
Be Careful with Salt Water:We know that pets, especially dogs, might eat or drink whatever they find, but drinking salt water is never a good idea. Always have fresh water available for them and don't let them drink salt water.
Always Use a Leash:This is common sense, but it doesn’t hurt to mention it.
These are just a few tips I can offer based on my firsthand experience with pets here in La Paz, but I know that each of our pets will have their own needs or special characteristics that require extra attention, something only the pet's family knows how to handle, believe me, I know.
I think I mentioned in another post an anecdote about my mother’s little Chihuahua. We were dining at a restaurant on the boardwalk, enjoying the cool evening and the spectacular scenery... suddenly, the little dog slipped out of her leash and darted off to pick a fight with a huge dog that was passing by. Typical Chihuahua behavior, I know. Fortunately, we were able to catch her before anything more ridiculous happened, but here the advice is to make sure your pet’s leash or harness is securely fastened to avoid these situations. In this case, something funny happened—the harness was the smallest we could find, but the Chihuahua is so tiny that it was still too big for her, and that's why she got loose.
Well, I think with this I can summarize that La Paz is a perfect place for a pet-friendly trip and to have an incredible pet-friendly vacation. It’s such a serene and peaceful city that your pet won’t get stressed about going out for a walk or a swim or having fun with their humans. Coming to La Paz is always a good idea. Coming with your pet is an even better idea.
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Tastes of La Paz.