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.
Reviewed April 2025