Pet’s are more than just an animal in your home, they are a fully fledged member of the family and it’s understandable that you’d want to take them on holiday with you. However, when you take your cat or dog on holiday you will need to spend some time preparing the correct documentation, ensuring you have their belongings, medication and a suitable carry case. It can seem like there’s a lot of work but we have covered it all in this complete guide on how to take your pet with you on holiday to make it easier.
What do I need to take my pet abroad?
Before you start packing your pup’s suitcase there are a few things you will need to get in order before you can take your pet on holiday such as:
- A permanent and up to date microchip.
- An up to date vaccination card, and a rabies vaccination card if required.
- Make sure they are comfortable travelling in their crate or carrier for long periods of time.
- A rabies vaccination at least 21 days before you plan to travel.
- A tapeworm treatment that must be given 1-5 days before leaving and returning to the UK.
- A pet passport that’s been issued by your vet, with all their essential medical information.
You will also need to ensure that you have stocked up on travel essentials for your pet as long journeys can be a stressful experience. A helpful tip is using a pheromone spray in your dog’s carrier a few hours before travelling, this can help calm them down and will settle them on a long trip. A comfort blanket, or a favourite toy or chew can work in the same way to keep them distracted and relaxed once on the move.
It would be beneficial to take your pet to a local vet before heading back to the UK, so they can be checked over and given the all clear for travel. If your pet is found to be unwell or not up to date when coming back into the UK, they could either be put into UK quarantine or quarantine of the country you’re trying to leave.
Pet Insurance
When travelling abroad with your pet, pet insurance is a must have. This can cover you for things such as vet fees if your pet gets sick or injured, repatriation if your pet should pass away, travel and accommodation if you have to cancel your holiday due to a pet’s illness or death.
Some key things to consider
Transport
Luckily these days most transport carriers will cater for your pet, be that train, plane or car. However you will need to ensure that you have the right seat belts to keep your pet safe throughout the travels.
Driving
When you are transporting your pet with a car, you need to make sure you have a safety harness or barricade generic neurontin across the backseat to keep your pet safe. Make sure also that their cage is large enough for them to stand, stretch out and walk around. Having protection from the sun during the warmer months is essential, do not forget this.
Flying
Before you book your pet on a flight it is important to double check with the airlines beforehand. You may have to pay excess baggage fees, so it’s best to make sure you have sorted this out prior to flying. If you do not have suitable crates and carriers for flights you can rent these from places such as Jet Pets which are designed for pet air travel.
Road trip essentials
If you are embarking on a road trip with your pet, it is important that you remember to pack all essential items such as a water bowl, dog food, treats and a harness and lead. Keep plenty of bottles water in your car just in case you can’t access tap water or it isn’t safe for your pet to drink.
Remember to account for toilet breaks throughout your road trip and allow for extra travel time. You can combine this with a fuel stop if there is a grassy area for your pet.
Accommodation
There are now more and more B&B’s, farm stays, hotels and holiday parks that will now happily accommodate you and your pet. Remember to double check the in-house rules prior to booking as they may have some specific requirements when it comes to the size and amount of animals you can bring. It may also state what items such as bedding, which might not be included.
Vets
Getting sick whilst on holiday can happen to any of us. So it’s a good idea to know where the closet vets are in the destination you are heading to. This is important, especially if you are camping or going somewhere very remote. If your pet takes medication, remember to have ordered and brought enough for your holiday. It would be important to take note of this also in case you need to take your pet to the vet, so you know what medication they are taking.
Dog sitter
You’re on holiday and may feel like having some time away from your pet. Just like children have babysitters, dogs have dog sitters and this is the best option for your pooch when on holiday. Your accommodation might offer their own sitter for your pet, however it’s best to research beforehand so you aren’t left disappointed.
Your pet will always be a huge part of your family life and your holiday mightn’t feel complete without them there. It is very possible to take your four legged friend on holiday with you, just remember to plan and prepare thoroughly for what is sure to be a very memorable holiday.
Written by Sarah McCann, Blog Editor at My Baggage and all-round dog enthusiast.