SHOULD YOU TAKE YOUR PET ON HOLIDAY?
For more information about travelling abroad with a pet, visit: www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad
Take your pet if…
If you’re hoping to take your furry friend with you on your holiday, there are considerations to think about. Has your pet travelled before? Do you think they would be distressed during the journey? Do you think they would feel more distressed left at home or in boarding? If they would enjoy the adventure of travelling with you and be happier there than at home – take them on the trip!
Importantly, whether your pet can come with you on your holiday, will depend on where you are holidaying and how are you getting there. If you are heading off to a pet-friendly hotel on the coast travelling by car, it will be easier to take your pet with you than if you are jetting off to far-flung shores. There are lots of UK hotels, lodges, caravan parks and campsites that allow pets – do your research before you leave. Speak to your vet about safe products to use to spray in your car to help calm your pet down.
Don’t take your pet if…
If you sometimes struggle to even get your pets in a car to go to the vet, let alone preparing them for a journey that may take hours. If you have any concerns at all about your pet’s ability to travel or if they become anxious in new places, it may be best to leave them at home with a trusted pet-sitter or put them into boarding whilst you are away.
Ensure that your animal is happy and healthy to travel, it’s vital that your chosen destination is right. Perhaps you are planning on a schedule of days out at theme parks or attractions? Or, you want to lie on the sun-drenched beach?
If so, this itinerary may not make your pet happy – especially if they are likely to be left behind at your accommodation without you for most of the day. Remember that it may be stressful to be left in a place that they do not know when you are not there.