Holiday traveling is stressful, whether it is by plane, train or automobile; the roads are busier, airports are more crowded and trains are packed like sardine cans. Adding your pet as a passenger doesn’t make things any easier but leaving them at home also requires careful consideration.
So here are a few guidelines to ensure your trip is as stress-free as possible for you and your faithful companion:
Leaving a Dog at Home
If your family decides the hustle and bustle of travelling will be too much for your pet then there other options that can give you peace of mind.
- Place Your Dog in a Kennel
Although this option can be expensive, kennels can provide excellent care and all the comforts of home a pet needs. They aren’t ideal for every pet so make sure to do your research. And if you are travelling at a peak time it is wise to book a kennel place early.Dogs Trust suggest:
- Asking friends and family, local vets and dog trainers for recommendations
- Visiting a few kennels unannounced and asking to be shown around. Confident owners will have no issue with this and will be pleased to show you around the entire establishment.
- Ask yourself a few questions…Are the kennels clean and dry? Do the dogs look clean and happy? Has the kennel asked for proof of vaccination? Is there an up-to-date licence from the local council?
- Consider hiring a Pet Sitter
Pet sitters can be a great, and often cheaper, alternative to kennel care. Most pet sitters will look after your pet in their home but some will arrange to do so at your house if your pet is more comfortable there. Just as with hiring a childcare, make sure to check for previous experience and references. Do they have pets of their own? Do you trust them in your home?
Travelling By Air
Guide dogs and other service animals can travel in the cabin of most flights so long as they meet the requirements of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) and have a car safety harness to secure them during take-off and landing.
What to Bring:
- Identification and travel documents for each animal
- A favourite toy may help keep your pet calm
- Bedding
- Lead and Harness
- Things your pet will need once you reach your destination
Visit Guide Dogs for more information.
Travelling By Car
Other than toy breeds, dogs should be confined to the rear compartment of a car, using a purpose built travelling cage. Cages can appear expensive, but used over a long period of time they do make good sense. By using one you can be happy in the knowledge that your dog is safe and secure.
Whilst travelling, be sure to take all the necessary precautions to prevent your dog from suffering heatstroke.
Pet Plan outline:
- Never leave your dog in a car in warm weather
- Avoid taking your dog on long journeys in hot weather
- If you have to travel with your dog, provide plenty of water and stop frequently for fresh air.
- Park in the shade to keep the car cool whilst you and your dog are not in it.
Whatever you decide to do this Christmas and beyond, always keep up to date with any changes and requirements by visiting the DEFRA website.
