How to prepare when your dog goes on holiday with you.

A weekly newsletter to help owners spend more time with their dogs and less looking for information on the Internet.??

Hello,?

Puppies, senior dogs, adolescent dogs – they need food, training, socialization, and you need to keep them healthy. Then there’s stuff like toys, beds, harnesses, doggie tech and insurance... it’s enough to make a dog want to go for a walk!? Don’t worry, this newsletter is All About Dogs.?

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Dogs have a short life. So, it makes sense that they should enjoy as many holidays with you as possible. You can’t always take your dog with you, but when you can,?careful preparation can help humans and dogs to have an enjoyable and relaxing time.?

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Before you leave.?

When you decide that doggie is going on holiday with you, it’s important to plan ahead. Get the relevant information about pet-friendly accommodation, travel rules (particularly?air travel), vaccinations needed, and?rules about dogs where you go.??

Visit your vet to ensure?the dog’s vaccinations are up to date. Get all the medicines the dog may need, and the contact information of vets where you go.?

A dog can easily get lost in an unfamiliar environment – his ID and microchip must be up-to-date. A wearable tracker may be a good idea – particularly if she’s an escape artist...?

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Dog-friendly accommodation??

What type of accommodation will you stay in and will your dog be welcome there? ?

If it’s a family gathering, will the hosts welcome your dog, and are there other dogs??

Many hotels are dog-friendly, but make sure about their rules, and the extra payment for the dog. ?

There wouldn’t be much camping this time of the year (assuming you’re in the northern hemisphere), but wherever you intend to go, make sure your dog will be welcome. Dogs usually aren’t allowed where there’s wildlife around.?

Secure your dog’s accommodation well in advance – even before your own! Ask about rules, some places don’t allow large breeds for instance. ?

Keep your normal routine with the dog as much as possible – feeding times, walks, and bringing his bed. ?

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Travel made easy.?

Travel can be nerve-wracking – particularly if it’s with a dog. But planning can help to?smooth it out. ?

If you’re going by car, plan your journey. Have regular stops where the dog can stretch his legs. If he’s inclined for motion sickness, don’t feed him more than an hour before you leave. ?

Don't allow her to be unrestrained in the car – it can be dangerous for you and the dog. Use safety restraints or a crate to protect her.?

Traveling by air has specific regulations that differ between airlines. Get all the relevant information from the airline – where he will travel?on the plane, health certificates needed, and any other issues. Remember, some airlines don’t allow certain dog breeds, and they also may limit the number of dogs on a flight.?

Tip: Airports can be very overcrowded during popular holidays. It's uncomfortable for humans and scary for dogs. Try to travel on the less busy days and avoid layovers if possible.

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Rules and regulations...?

When you take your dog on holiday with you it will unfortunately mean extra rules and regulations – wherever you travel or stay. Don't assume anything! And don’t trust websites – they're not always up to date.? If you travel to another state the rules concerning dogs may differ. Where will he be allowed? Is his breed allowed where you go? Should she always be on a leash and are there dog-friendly eateries and parks for exercise nearby. ?

You don’t want to arrive somewhere and find that your dog is not allowed...?

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What to pack.??

Make a list well in advance, to ensure you don’t miss important items at the last moment.?

• Food and water bowls (collapsible are wonderful for travel).?

• Food and water (it’s a good idea to take extra in case of delays).?

• His bed, a familiar blanket, and favorite toys.?

• A leash or harness and a warm jacket if you’re going to a cold climate. ?

• Medication she may need plus a first aid kit. ?

• Grooming essentials – including a towel.?

• A crate in which he can comfortably stand and turn around. ?

• For the nervous or motion sickness traveler, you will need the relevant medicine from your vet. ?

• All the health and vaccination certificates are needed for your travel and destination.?

• Pet insurance details – if you have insurance.?

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Taking your dog on holiday is special and helps to make the time spent together enjoyable and special. Transport and accommodation can be a challenge – but when you plan and gather all the necessary information you’re set for an easy and enjoyable journey.?

Do you take your dog on holiday? Let us know in the comments.