3 Tips to Keep Your Holiday Pet-Friendly

Taking your pet along on holiday can make a trip feel even more special. These days, lots of people want to include their furry companions when they travel, but it does take a bit of extra thought to make sure the holiday works well for everyone involved.

Keeping things pet-friendly isn’t difficult, but a few sensible steps can really help you avoid stress and keep your pet comfortable.

Pick the Right Place to Stay and Travel

One of the most important things is to choose somewhere that welcomes pets and suits your animal’s needs. Not every hotel or rental will take pets, so it pays to do your homework before booking. Ideally, look for a place that has outside space or is close to parks, so your pet has room to stretch their legs.

If you’re planning to travel around during your holiday, you might want to consider booking or even planning your own pet-friendly tour. There are more and more companies offering tours made especially for people travelling with pets. These tours tend to be well thought out, with pet-friendly stops and advice on where you can safely go with your animal. It takes a lot of the guesswork out of planning and means you won’t have to scramble for last-minute pet-friendly places.

Also, keep in mind the local rules where you’re going. Some areas have restrictions on where pets can go, so it’s best to check ahead. Think about what your pet will be comfortable with too, for example, a lively city might be too much for some dogs, whereas countryside spots are often better for pets that like peace and quiet.

Don’t Forget to Pack for Your Pet

Packing for a pet is more than just throwing in some food and a leash. Try to bring anything that will help your pet feel at home, like their favourite blanket or toy. If they’re nervous in new places, these familiar things can really make a difference.

Make sure you have enough of any medications they take and carry their vaccination records with you, especially if you’re travelling abroad. It’s handy to have everything ready in case you need it.

If you’re travelling by car or plane, think about how to keep your pet safe during the journey. A good crate or a harness designed for travel can help. And don’t forget to plan for breaks on longer car trips so your pet can have a stretch and a drink.

Know Where to Find Vet Help if You Need It

Even if you’ve planned everything perfectly, it’s sensible to know where the nearest vet or animal clinic is at your destination. Before you set off, look up the contact details of a reliable vet and save them on your phone. Some places even have emergency clinics open 24 hours, which can be a huge relief if anything goes wrong.

If you’re travelling to another country, check the pet travel rules carefully. Some places need specific vaccinations or health certificates signed by your vet before your pet can enter. These rules can vary quite a bit, so it’s best to find out well in advance.

Hopefully, you won’t need to visit a vet during your holiday, but having a plan will make things easier if you do. Some pet-friendly tours or accommodations even offer help with veterinary services, so don’t be afraid to ask about that when booking.

Bringing your pet on holiday can be a great experience for everyone when you take a little time to prepare. Choosing the right places to stay, packing thoughtfully and knowing where to turn if you need help will make the whole trip smoother and more enjoyable for you and your furry friend.