AD. Do you take your pet on holiday? More and more UK pet owners are choosing to bring their dogs and cats along with them, and it’s easy to see why. A quick weekend escape to the coast or a countryside retreat is all the better when having your furry companion by your side, helping to make the experience even more special. But while the idea of travelling with pets sounds idyllic, it does require a bit of careful planning to ensure you both stay safe, comfortable and stress-free. Here’s what you need to know to make travelling with your pet a success.
[Photo by Emerson Peters on Unsplash]
Choosing Pet-Friendly Destinations & Accommodation
Before you go anywhere, you’ll need to pick the perfect destination that will give a warm welcome not just to you and your family, but to your pet as well. Not everywhere will be suitable. It’s better to check well in advance and see what your options are, especially if you are heading outside of the UK. If you're heading abroad, research any entry requirements for pets well in advance by checking the taking your pet abroad page on the Gov.uk website.
Luckily, you don’t have to travel too far to find pet-friendly spots here in the UK. If you like the sound of scenic coastal paths in Cornwall or the stunning surrounds of the Lake District, many towns now have dog-friendly cafes, beaches with relaxed rules, and even attractions that allow pets to tag along. You want to find the perfect balance that gives you the option to visit places without having to leave your pet at your accommodation, otherwise the holiday won’t be anywhere near as enjoyable for them as it is for you!
Speaking of accommodation, options have expanded well beyond basic pet-friendly hotels. You’ll find beautiful cottages with enclosed gardens, glamping sites that welcome animals, and even luxury lodges offering pet hampers on arrival if you’re lucky. Websites like the National Trust can help you find some hidden gems across the UK, or if you’re using Airbnb or similar, always double-check the property’s pet policy before booking. Some may require additional fees or notice when bringing a furry family member.
Preparing Your Pet for the Journey
Like with any holiday, preparation is recommended as early as possible, and with a pet in tow, you’ll want to check they are fit to travel. It can be a stressful time for your dog or cat leaving the familiarity of home even just for a few days, so you’ll need to ensure it’s the right choice for them.
Whilst a dog will be used to going outside regularly for walks, your cat may not be so used to leaving home. In some cases, it may be best for your cat to stay behind in the care of other family or friends, so carefully consider this before taking them with you. As their health and wellbeing are so important. Visiting the vet before your holiday is one of the first things to do.
As per the RSPCA, visit your vet at least one month before travel for a check-up to make sure their vaccinations are up to date and they have any flea or worming treatments. With a trip abroad, you need to check if your destination requires an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This certificate can only be provided by your vet and no more than 10 days before you travel. As mentioned above, you can find out more about this on the Gov.uk website. A trip to a non-EU country will require an Export Health Certificate (EHC) instead.
Taking a holiday is also a good moment for you to review your current pet insurance. There is always the risk of something unexpected happening, and not all policies automatically cover travel-related incidents or treatment while away from home. Look for a suitable pet insurance policy for your cat or dog that covers the costs of any accidents or illnesses, as vet fees for these unexpected things can become expensive without insurance. Many providers such as Petgevity provide optional extras for travel and holiday cover, so check the small print and ensure you’re covered just in case. You’ll thank yourself later if for any reason your pet becomes ill or injured when away.
Packing for Your Pet – Essentials Checklist
You either love packing for your holiday or dread the thought of doing so, but either way, you need to ensure your pet has everything they need as well as your own holiday wardrobe and toiletries. Here’s a few essentials you won’t want to forget:
- Enough of their usual food for the full trip
- Food and water bowls
- Treats and any regular medication they need
- Lead, harness, and ID tag
- Poo bags (or litter and tray for cats)
- Grooming supplies (brush, wipes, etc.)
- Travel crate or pet seatbelt restraint for safe journeys
- Favourite bed, blanket, or cushion
- Toys or chews for comfort and mental stimulation
- Basic pet first aid kit
- Towel for muddy paws or wet fur
Remember that your pet will be in unfamiliar settings, including where they will sleep and rest, so anything that can help them feel more relaxed and settled will help them settle in.
[Photo by Anatolii Kozhukhar on Unsplash]
Tips for a Smooth Trip
In many cases you’ll be travelling by car to get to your destination, and hopefully your pet is used to this when either going to and from the vet or when going for walks. Whether you have a dog or cat, helping them feel secure and comfortable in the car will make the journey less stressful for them.
If they have a well-ventilated crate to travel in this can help, especially if they are used to sleeping in one at home. Take regular stops along the way, especially on a long journey, to check on them and help them stretch their legs, have toilet breaks and some water.
If you’re going to be taking the ferry or going by train such as through the Eurotunnel, check the operator’s pet policy in advance. Most ferries allow small pets if they’re well-behaved and kept on a lead or in a carrier, but for the Eurotunnel train, they will need to stay in the car throughout the journey. Check before booking so that you are well aware of the differences between different operators.
Settling in at Your Destination
Once you arrive for the start of your holiday, give your pet time to adjust to their new surroundings. It will feel a little bit like the first time you brought them home, so set up a quiet, comfortable space with familiar items like their bed, blanket, or toys to help them settle in. They may feel tired after a long journey, so give them space to take things at their own pace.
It’s a good idea to try and stick to their normal feeding and walking routines as closely as possible too. If you’re staying somewhere you’ve not been before, check that the outdoor areas are secure before letting them roam around, just in case it’s near to a road or other people and animals. Hopefully, you can relax and settle in on your first day without issue so that you and your pet can start to enjoy your time away.
Lastly, Enjoy Yourself!
No matter how far you travel, taking your pet with you can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. Cats and dogs are extended family members, so it is only right to let them enjoy a holiday too. The tips above should help you consider everything you need to do in advance and what to take with you, so all that’s left to do is plan in some fun activities together and relax. That way, the whole family can enjoy themselves and have a memorable trip you’ll want to do every year.
