The European Market: 

The European Commission will allow pets to travel throughout the EU countries this summer (2005), although the new passport system is not completely in place. The exceptions will be Britain, Ireland, and Sweden. These countries have opted not to use the system, which covers dogs, cats, and ferrets, for five years. All pet owners who have the pet passports or a certificate stating the pet’s country origin can travel with their pets until October 1, although the monitoring system is not in place.  The passports are helpful in showing a pet’s medical history, which is important for the pet and countries involved.   

Pet Friendly Hotels: 

All Starwood Hotels and Resorts are pet friendly. The hotels under the Starwoods’ umbrella are Sheraton, Westin, Saint Regis, Four Points Sheraton, and The Luxury Collection.  Additionally, Loews Hotels are all pet friendly, as are Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. Various Marriott’s and Hiltons are pet friendly; so phone the one where you are seeking lodging to see what their policy is. Remember that some hotels are restrictive as to the size and weight of the pet.   

Other pet friendly establishments are Motel 6, Red Roof Inns, Drury Inns, E-Z 8 Motels, and Shilo Inns, plus some Ramada Inns and Best Western Motels. Always check with the lodging facilities as they may change their policies based on how well previous travelers and pet owners adhered to them. 

Dining Out with Your Pet: 

Many Starbucks have outdoor seating areas where you may sip coffee and munch on a pastry with your dog leashed at your side.  Check the area where you are visiting to see what the policy is when dining with a pet.  In the summertime it is easy to find outdoor eateries and sometimes they allow you to dine at an outside table with your pet.  Just check first with your place of lodging to see what the policy is for surrounding restaurants and coffee houses.  

Maintaining Sanitary Conditions with Your Pet: 

As you know there are laws in every state regarding cleaning up after your pet.  Please adhere to these laws and clean up after your pet.  These laws are to protect everyone by eliminating filth and unsanitary conditions that lend themselves to disease.  The more you abide by the rules the better it is for you and all pet owners.