Taking your dog on holiday can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some steps to help you plan and prepare for a trip with your furry friend.
Choose a pet-friendly destination
Research and select a holiday destination that is dog-friendly. Look for accommodations, attractions, and activities that allow dogs.
Check travel requirements
Ensure you are aware of any travel requirements for dogs, such as vaccinations, health certificates, or microchipping. If you are traveling internationally, check the specific regulations of your destination.
Plan transportation
Decide on the mode of transportation based on the distance and convenience. If traveling by car, make sure your dog is comfortable and safe in a carrier or with a seatbelt harness.
Pack essentials
Pack your dog’s essentials such as food, treats, water, bowls, leash, collar with identification tags, bedding, toys, grooming supplies, any medications, and familiar items to help them feel secure and comfortable.
Food
Continuing your dog’s normal feeding routine and diet is super important. Not only will it help them feel more comfortable but it also helps avoid upset tummies which can turn a wonderful holiday upside down.
However, many pet owners feed diets that are not easy to travel with. These include raw food which needs to be kept frozen until the day of feeding, wet food in bulky tins or flimsy trays or heavy bags of dry food. COYA is an option for all adult dogs and puppies to enjoy during their holiday, helping to reduce stress and inconvenience for pet owners, as well as give dogs super tasty raw meals on the road. COYA is lightweight, packed full of raw goodness but is stored at room temperature meaning it’s ideal for travel.
Visit the Vet
It might be a good idea to schedule a visit to the Vet before the trip to ensure your dog is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. Ask the vet for any additional advice specific to your dog’s needs, especially if they are prone to car sickness or anxiety.
Research pet-friendly accommodations
Find accommodation options that are pet-friendly, such as hotels, vacation rentals, or campgrounds. Ensure they have the necessary facilities and policies to accommodate dogs. Think about things like secure gardens / outside space, a safe place for them to sleep and ideally somewhere for them to be rinsed down after a long day of fun on the beach or in the countryside.
Plan dog-friendly activities
Look for dog-friendly attractions, parks, beaches, or hiking trails at your destination. Research local regulations and lead requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Remember, some beaches are only dog friendly at certain times of year, often October – May, so double check this on the relevant council website to be sure.
Practice obedience and socialiSation
If your dog is not already well-trained, consider enrolling them in obedience classes or working on basic commands to ensure they are well-behaved during the trip. Socialise your dog with other dogs and people to make the experience more pleasant. Even for dogs who are well-trained already, new environments and experiences can be strange for them even if they are enjoyable! Remember to listen to your dog’s needs and notice any signs of anxiety when doing something or going somewhere that is new to them.
Consider your dog's comfort
Be mindful of your dog’s comfort and well-being throughout the trip. Provide them with breaks, access to water, and regular exercise. Be prepared for any weather conditions and make sure your dog has a safe and comfortable place to rest.
Be a responsible pet owner
Clean up after your dog and follow local rules and regulations regarding pets. Respect other people’s spaces and be considerate of those who may not be comfortable around dogs.
Remember, each dog is unique, so adapt your plans and preparations to suit your pet’s specific needs. Taking your dog on holiday requires extra planning, but with careful preparation, you can create wonderful memories together!
