Going on a well-deserved break with your beloved dog is an exciting prospect but there are a few things to consider so that your four legged friend shares in the fun and does not suffer from holiday blues. Read on to find out more on what to take on holiday for your dog.
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Should Your Dog Come On Holiday With You?
Paws for thought - Taking your furry friend away from their home comforts, a change in routine, a new environment and travelling can be quite stressful for them, so as a responsible owner you must ask yourself whether this is the best thing for them? Would it be better if they stayed in the care of family, friends or a boarding facility?
There are many places which offer a home from home experience, whereby your pet has all the comforts he needs and more! So you need not worry that they are missing out.
Research your holidaying destination; will you be permitted access to all the essential facilities? Is the local pub dog friendly? Are pets allowed throughout the accommodation? Are there any restrictions on the beaches?
What To Pack When Taking Your Dog On Holiday
Everything but the kitchen sink! Whatever the season you will need to make provision for all the extra luggage that your pet may need – portable water bowl, treats for good behaviour, favourite toys, bedding, towels, poo bags, enough food for the entire trip, grooming equipment, leashes - the list goes on!
A deep cleaning shampoo may prove to be an essential wash bag item if your four legged furry decides they are more salty sea dog than pristine pooch.
WILDWASH deodorising shampoo will enact a transformation - with the aid of Peppermint, Rosemary and Lemongrass your pet will be sweet smelling and thoroughly cleansed.
Holiday Packing List For Your Dog
Travel essentials:
- Crate or carrier (if needed for transport)
- Seat belt harness or pet seat belt for car travel
- Comfortable bedding
- Portable water and food bowls
- Dog food (enough for the duration of the trip)
- Treats
- Bottled water (especially if the local water quality is uncertain)
- Collar with ID tags
- Lead (plus a spare one!)
First aid items:
- Basic first aid kit for dogs (including bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and gauze)
- Tick remover tool
- Any necessary medication (with instructions)
- Emergency contact numbers for a local vet.
Grooming tools:
- Brush or comb suitable for your dog's coat type
- Nail clippers
- Dog shampoo
- Towel.
- Ear cleaner and cotton balls.
Above: Holiday essentials - Wildwash shampoo and bug repellent and our Essentials Grooming Set containing all the grooming equipment you need in a handy carry case
Comfort and safety:
- Favourite toys
- Blanket or familiar item from home
- Poop bags
- Dog-friendly sun cream
- Flea and tick prevention - see our favourite natural spray here.
Documentation:
- Vaccination records
- Microchip information
- Pet insurance details
- Any relevant travel permits or pet passports (for international travel)
Extras:
- Cooling mat or vest (for hot climates)
- Raincoat or jacket (for cold or wet climates)
- Portable playpen or gate (for securing your dog in unfamiliar environments)
Make sure to tailor this list to your dog's specific needs and the details of your holiday destination.
Keep Up With Their Grooming Routine
If you are partaking in walks in the wild then you will need to thoroughly check through the coat for any ticks or fleas that may have found a home in your doggie’s fur. Read more about checking for ticks here. These critters are very easy to pick up off the vegetation where there are wild animals roaming, such as deer, rabbits or foxes.
Keep up with their regular grooming and inspect the coat by carefully brushing through with a fine toothed flea comb and remove any ticks with a special removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers.
Dog First Aid
What if the worst happens and your pet becomes ill or has an accident? Make sure in the first instance that they are fit and healthy and you have adequate insurance. Get up to date with vaccinations, worming and flea treatment prior to travel. And take a basic first aid kit for any quick fixes that might be required.
Undertaking a dog first aid course is great way to be prepared should accidents happen anytime, not just whilst you're away. First aid training will set you up for dealing with minor injures to what you should when faced with more serious issues such as heatstroke.
Travelling Abroad With Your Dog: What You Need To Know
If you’re planning to take your dog on an overseas adventure, there are a few extra things to consider beyond your usual packing list. Different countries have their own rules and regulations for travelling with pets, so it’s important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth trip.
Here’s a checklist of additional items you’ll need for taking your dog on an international trip:
- An Animal Health Certificate
- Microchip (ensure your dog is chipped and the details are up to date)
- Rabies Vaccination and Proof (must be up to date, and given at least 21 days before travel)
- Tapeworm Treatment (required for entry into some countries, like Finland and Norway)
- Tick and Flea Prevention (especially for regions with exotic parasites)
- Comfortable Travel Crate (IATA-approved for air travel)
- Portable Water and Food Bowls
- Pet Insurance (make sure it covers international travel)
- Dog’s Usual Food (as it may not be available abroad)
- Medication (any necessary meds with instructions)
- Vaccination Records (to prove up-to-date shots)
- Emergency Contact Numbers for a Local Vet
- Cooling Mat (for warmer climates)
If you’re travelling outside the UK, your dog must be vaccinated against rabies. Most countries require that this is done at least 21 days before your departure, and you’ll need to carry proof of this vaccination when crossing borders. Always check the specific country’s rules as some may have additional requirements.
In some places, you’ll also need to watch out for exotic parasites, such as sandflies, heartworm, and ticks. Make sure your dog is up to date with flea and tick prevention and consider speaking to your vet about any extra treatments they might need based on your destination.
How To Get A Pet Passport - The Animal Health Certificate
Since Brexit, UK pet passports are no longer valid in the EU. If you’re travelling to the EU or Northern Ireland, your dog will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead, which must be issued by a vet no more than 10 days before travel. The certificate will confirm your dog’s microchip number, rabies vaccination, and health status.
Summary
Going on holiday with your dog can be so much fun, but a little planning goes a long way! Make sure they’re happy and comfortable by packing all their essentials – food, toys, bedding, and even a first aid kit, just in case.
If you’re heading abroad, don’t forget the rabies vaccination, pet passport or Animal Health Certificate, and any extra parasite treatments.
Check that your holiday spot is dog-friendly, and keep their ID tags up to date. With some preparation, you and your furry friend can enjoy an unforgettable getaway together!
