What do you need to know about traveling with pets? Visit a Navy Lodge, Whether you purchased a military discount airline ticket for a relaxing vacation or relocation, your pets may be joining you. The more than 40 Navy Lodges worldwide provide accommodations for active-duty military personnel and their families. No taxpayer dollars are used to maintain these facilities, guests save 43 percent on average, and dogs and cats up to 50 pounds are now permitted at most facilities.
In the past, military personnel staying at a Navy Lodge had to board their pet while on vacation or during a permanent change of station move. Now that pets are permitted, vacations are more relaxing and the relocation proceeds more smoothly. The hotel provides bags that pet owners should use to clean up after their animals.
After purchasing discount airline tickets for the family, the focus should turn to the pets. Prior to traveling, a veterinarian should conduct a checkup and issue any necessary medications and vaccines. Travelers should carry a copy of the animal vaccination records and if traveling between states, a health certificate is recommended. During travel, pets should have plenty of food and water as well as their favorite toys.
The new Navy Lodge located in Norfolk, Virginia, features 292 rooms, making it the largest in the world. Initially opened in 1971 and containing 90 guest rooms, it has expanded and features oversized queen rooms and family suites, each with kitchenettes or full kitchens. Onsite are meeting rooms, a fitness center, a business center, and a gift shop.
With military discounts for airline tickets and accommodations at Navy Lodges, military personnel save a lot of money when traveling or relocating and can take their pets. Navy Lodge reservations are made as received, without consideration for rate, reservation time, or rank. Once a reservation is made, the individual cannot be bumped from the assigned room.