Of course you want to bring your pet on your adventures! Your little guy is practically part of the family. You can’t just leave him home or—gasp—with a sitter for a week. Before you pull out the travel carrier, there are a few things you should do:

1. Visit your vet to ensure your pet is healthy for travel. Most airlines require your dog to have up-to-date vaccinations.

2. Make a checklist of everything you’ll need on-hand: leash, ID tag, dishes, treats, brushes, medications, a first-aid kit, copies of his medical records, and a pet car seat if you’ll be driving. You may also want to bring food if you won’t have access to your usual brand at your destination.

3. If you’re flying, restrict food and water for 12 hours before the flight to avoid messes and vomiting in the carrier.

4. Give your pet a lot of exercise before you board the plane. You want to tire him out so he won’t get agitated being confined in a small place.

5. Line the crate with puppy pads to protect your pet from accidents he may have en route. If you’re traveling with a cat, you should get a travel sized littler box to attach to the side of the crate.

6. Never leave your pet alone in a car. In the summer, the car’s temperature can rise quickly and become fatal.  An unattended pet can also be fall victim to pet-napping.

Traveling with a pet requires just as much planning as traveling with a baby. You need to gather all your usual supplies and plan in advance for any care emergencies that should occur while you’re away. Do your homework and you’ll have a safe, fun trip with a happy pet onboard.

There are two ways to travel with your pet: squeeze him into your existing plans, or schedule a vacation that’s pet-friendly on every level. If you’re interested in doing the latter, you may want to plan your trip around one of these fun pet events.

Strut Your Mutt Dog Parade and Festival, Bethesda, MD: Come to see exhibitors, dog contests, training shows, a parade, live music, and more. The event takes place annually in May.

Dogtoberfest, Portland, Oregon: The event includes live music, free grooming, and a street fair. All donations support the DoveLewis Blood Bank—one of the largest volunteer-based blood banks in America. Takes place annually in September.

Annual Howlywood Paws of Fame Dog Walk, San Dimas, CA: This event—which occurs annually in May—includes games and activities for you and your dog, sponsor booths, pet information booths, live music, food and more.

Woofstock, Santa Maria, CA: This “groovy dog festival for peace-loving hounds” occurs annually around June in Woof Pac Park—voted one of the top dog parks in the nation by Dog Fancy Magazine. You’ll enjoy food, drinks, vendors, prizes, and contests, including the world-famous Mug vs. Mug (dog/human look-alike) contest.

Pet-a-palooza, Las Vegas, NV: This annual event draws quite a crowd—around 20,000 people and 4,000 dogs attended last year…and a few exotic animals, as well! Activities include an obstacle course, contests, performances, and more. Admission is $5; children under 3 enter for free.

Don’t worry if you can’t make one of these events. There are smaller parades, walks, and pet fundraisers happening all the time all over the country.

According to the Carmel website, there’s an entire social order of dogs and their owners that show up on the leash-free beach at designated times to chat and cavort.  The town caters to canines in every way possible.  Numerous hotels welcome dogs, including Cypress Inn, partially owned by animal-lover Doris Day. You can also stay at Happy Landing Inn, a quaint spot with antique-filled rooms; The Tradewinds at Carmel, a luxury boutique hotel; or one of several other dog-friendly inns.

Many shopkeepers welcome your dog into their stores, offering smiles and biscuits. The Carmel Plaza shopping center even has a “Fountain of Woof”—a dogs-only drinking fountain.  After taking your leashed dog on a two-hour walking tour through secret pathways, hidden courtyards, and lush gardens, you’ll probably work up an appetite. Carmel boasts more than a dozen outdoor restaurants that welcome dogs.

If you visit in July, you’ll enjoy the Carmel Bach Festival, a 60-year-old tradition of classical music and festivity. The event runs for three weeks, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to join in the fun. Carmel also has a couple theaters and a symphony—for humans only, unfortunately.

Carmel-by-the-sea is a beautiful location, perfect for some R&R with your furry friend.

The Bay Area is a huge draw for people and pets alike. For starters, there are over 20 off-leash dog parks, including the ever-popular Golden Gate Park, Delores Park in the Mission, and Alamo Square Park. Just like the different neighborhoods, each spot has its own unique feel.  Additionally, many shops and outdoor restaurants throughout the city welcome your leashed pet. From Baja Fresh Mexican Grill downtown to Café Trieste in North Beach, you have your choice of cuisines at dozens of establishments.

If you visit in the summer check out the San Francisco Giants Dog Days of Summer at AT&T Park. The 8-year old tradition which takes place in August starts with a dog parade on the field. After that, you’re welcome to sit in the bleachers with your four-legged sports fan.

As for hotels, once again—be prepared to make a tough choice! You have the historic Argonaut Hotel in popular tourist destination Fisherman’s Wharf. Then there’s the stylish Marriott in Union Square, and many budget-friendly options, including Best Western and Holiday Inn. During your stay, be sure to take a waterfront carriage ride and head over to wine country in Napa. After all, it’s not all about your dog.