Whether you’re taking your dog on holiday or leaving them behind, we have some great advice for owners for a less stressful time. A change of location and a change of routine can be unsettling but we’ll help you make the most of it.
A dog friendly holiday
- Research your location, make sure your accommodation is pet friendly and if you have multiple dogs make sure they are happy to have more than one dog (some places aren’t)
- Are there plenty places nearby that are dog friendly? There may be beaches but many have restrictions for dogs visiting during the summer months.
- Does your dog travel ok? Make sure you speak to your vet about travel sickness before you go.
- It’s also a good idea to take regular breaks if your journey is long. Allow your dog to stretch their legs and have a toilet break. Try and travel at quieter times to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
- Does your accommodation have a secure garden with a high fence? Check the fences on arrival for any holes that could allow for an escapee.
- Bring some creature comforts. Although your dog will relish a new environment to explore make sure they have something with the smell of home such as their bed, blanket and some toys.
- Think about feeding. If your dog eats dry food, make sure you bring a good supply to last the holiday. If they have food that needs to be kept in a fridge or freezer, make sure there are the facilities that you need. Some dog friendly hotels will store frozen or chilled food for you.
- Make sure you take water with you on every walk to avoid heat stroke.
- Ensure that your dogs have an up to date ID tag preferably with your mobile number on, in case they get lost.
- Be aware of who is around you, dog thefts are on the rise so take note of anything suspicious towards your dog.
A break without your pet
If you’re planning a pet free holiday:
- Decide on the type of care you will provide for your dog. Will a family member take care of them, will you have a dog sitter or book them into kennels or a pet hotel? It’s good to get personal recommendations from friends or family who have used them before.
- Make sure you book well in advance as accommodation gets booked up quickly in peak times.
- Check what kind of activities your dog will be able to do? Will they be able to play with other dogs or will they spend most of their time inside – it’s best to check, do your research.
- If you put them into a kennel or pet hotel it’s a good idea for them to have a prior visit so that it’s not a completely new experience for them.
- If they are boarding, send them with some of their own items such as their bed and blanket so they have a smell of home.
- Check what the feeding arrangements are, do they provide food or can you take your own?
- For boarded pets are there specific check in and check out times?
- Make sure your dogs are up to date on their vaccinations, reputable places will demand that they are.
Have you seen the dog friendly accommodation at East Ruston Cottages, Norfolk? For every booking made with the code FOREVER HOUNDS we receive a £25 donation. Learn more…