Before you hit the road and head to the Smoky Mountains, read over our tips on how to prepare for your next stay in a pet-friendly cabin in Pigeon Forge. From what to expect to where to go, we want to make sure that all of our dog-loving guests are prepared for a fun and memorable vacation in the Smoky Mountains.
3 Things to Remember When Staying in a Pet-Friendly Cabin in Pigeon Forge
Expect the Unexpected
It is hard to plan out exactly what will happen on your vacation in Pigeon Forge. Minds change, rain happens, alarm clocks don’t go off, there is a lot that goes on between planning your travel itinerary and actually being able to enjoy your vacation. This is especially true for dog owners wanting to stay in a pet-friendly cabin in Pigeon Forge.
When you are traveling with your dog, you want try as best as you can to expect the unexpected. Although this may require a little extra prep work before you hit the road, it will save you a ton of headache in the long term.
A few examples we have about things pet owners can do to prepare themselves for their stay in a pet-friendly cabin in Pigeon Forge include:
- Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations, including rabies
- Microchip your pet or updating the information on his/her current collar tag
- Pack an extra leash
- Toss in a few extra toys or bones for your dog to enjoy during downtime
- Make a list of all local vet clinics near where you will be staying
- Take a picture of your pet that is current in case you two are separated
We don’t want to worry dog owners and make them think that something might happen during their pet-friendly vacation, but it is important to be aware of how to be prepared for anything.
(See Related: 9 Tips on Planning the Perfect Pet-Friendly Smoky Mountain Vacation)
Your Pet May Need Some Time to Adjust
You and your family aren’t the only ones who will be experiencing a new environment for a couple of days when you go on vacation. That is why we think it is important to remind pet owners to give their pet some time to adjust when you first arrive at your pet-friendly cabin in Pigeon Forge.
Another way to help your dog feel at home in the Smoky Mountains is to remember to bring their favorite blanket or soft bed to lay in when you are not around. Not only does this give your pooch a soft place to sleep off of the floor, but it also carries the same smells that will remind him/her of home.
The key to a successful family vacation in Pigeon Forge is to make sure that you entire family remains as relaxed as possible during your stay, including your dog.
Not All Pigeon Forge Attractions Are Pet-Friendly
Sadly enough, you cannot take your pet with you everywhere you go when you visit Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains. There are still quite a few attractions and restaurants that do not allow pets.
Now, that does not mean that you and your family cannot still enjoy these fun places to visit, but you do need to have a plan of what to do with your four-legged friend when you are area. At Great Outdoor Rentals, we suggest families consider bringing a collapsible crate to keep their dogs in while they are away from their cabin. Another option is to consider looking up reputable boarders in the area who don’t mind to watch your dog for an hour or two. This will allow you and your family to still explore all of your favorite things to do in the area without worrying about your pet acting out while you are away.
That being said, there are a few pet-friendly attractions in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains. A few of our favorite attractions are:
- Doggywood at Dollywood
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park (limited to picnic areas, along roads, and both the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail)
- Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge
- The Gatlinburg Sky Lift
- The Village Shops
For more tips on how to get the most out of your next vacation to Pigeon Forge, be sure to sign up for Great Outdoor Rentals’ Newsletter. That way you and your family can stay up-to-date on all the fun and exciting things going on in the Smoky Mountains directly from your inbox.