5 Essential Tips for Travelling with Pets

Not only does it allow you to share experiences with your beloved companions, but it also eliminates the need for costly pet boarding or pet-sitting services. Additionally, having your pet by your side can provide comfort and companionship, especially in unfamiliar environments. Every country you visit will have different rules and regulations on what they require.  

You also need to be familiar with the UK’s rules on re-entry as you may have to visit a vet on holiday to make sure they’re cleared to travel again. While you’re on holiday, you may find the local area has different laws regarding your pet. While in the UK, you can take your staffy to the park for an off lead run, if you’re going to Germany they are required to be muzzled in public so you need to check out dog laws for each place you visit.  

One of the first steps in preparing for pet travel is ensuring that you have the necessary documentation. This may include a veterinary health certificate, microchip details, and proof of vaccinations. Each country has its own requirements, so it's essential to verify the specific requirements for your destination. Remember to consider your return home.  

The UK requires all dogs entering the UK to have been treated for tapeworm by a vet no less than 24 hours before and no more than five days prior to returning home. This can be a little tricky if there’s a language barrier but in most places where pet travel is popular, many vets in the area will be well versed in the process.  

A pet passport is a document that contains essential information about your pet, including their identification details, vaccinations, and health records. It serves as a form of identification for your pet when travelling internationally and is required by many countries. At the beginning of 2023, all pet passports issued in the UK became invalid following Brexit and we no longer use or issue them. Pet passports that were issued outside of the UK like in France or Northern Ireland remain valid.  

Pet passports were valid for as long as your pet remained vaccinated, however the new process requires an updated vet check and certificate every time you travel. 

This certificate verifies that your pet is in good health and has received all necessary vaccinations. Make sure to check the validity period of the certificate, as it may need to be issued within a certain timeframe of your travel date. You will normally have a ten-day grace period between receiving the check and travelling with your pet.  

Due to these changes, pet travel has become more expensive as they will need a check every time they travel. Certificates are only able to be granted by an Official Veterinarian. There are limited vets throughout the UK who can do this so you may not be able to use your regular vet and it will cost between £100 and £150.  

Once you've ensured that you have the necessary documentation, it's time to consider the logistics of travelling with your pet. You have the option to drive, go by boat or the quickest option is to fly to get to your destination safely. If it’s your first time flying with your pets, there are a few things you need to be aware of before you take off.  

Every airline has its own regulations however since COVID, no airline or airport in the UK has allowed dogs to travel in the cabin. Only service dogs are considered so if you’re taking your pooch abroad, they will have to travel as cargo. When your pet flies cargo, you will usually have to arrive earlier to check them in so it’s recommended to make sure they have a run and can go to the toilet before their flight as it can be quite a wait, especially if there are delays.  

If you’re travelling by flight and you want your pup to travel in the cabin with you, there are some ways to work around this. You can first travel to Ireland or a country in Europe like France and catch a flight from there to avoid them going in the hold. Airlines will usually have a limit on the weight of a dog you can take in the cabin which ranges from 8kg to 12kg which will include the carrier they travel in. All pets flying in the cabin must be contained in a carrier that can fit beneath the chair in front of you. If you have more than one pet carrier to bring, you will usually need to buy an extra seat but they still have to travel in their crate beneath the seat. 

While it may be tempting to let your pet sit on your lap during a flight, it's generally not allowed for safety reasons. Pets should be secured in an approved pet carrier or crate for the duration of the flight. Ultimately, it will depend on the individual crew you’re flying with as it’s often at their discretion that they allow pets to be removed from their carriers. Officially, it’s usually not allowed.  

Preparing your pet for travel is essential for their comfort and well being during the journey. A holiday should be a fun and relaxing experience so getting them there without causing too much stress is always the goal.  

Introducing your pet to the travelling gradually can help alleviate anxiety and stress. Take them on short car rides or practice crate training to acclimate them to the travel environment. Dogs can often become anxious when put in new situations so by making as much of the journey as you possibly can routine for them, it will become a lot easier. You might not be able to practice taking them on flights but you can get them used to spending periods confined in a crate through positive training so it’s one less thing to worry about.  

If your furry friend tends to experience motion sickness, you can seek guidance from your veterinarian regarding suitable medication options. Consulting your vet ensures that you can address your pet's specific needs, helping to alleviate discomfort and make the journey a more pleasant experience for them. Vets can recommend medications tailored to your pet's size, health condition, and travel duration, ensuring their well being throughout the trip.  

This proactive approach allows you to prepare adequately, especially if your pooch is likely to feel a little uneasy during the journey. If you’re taking a flight, you’re unable to sedate pets for the journey but you can provide them with anti-sickness medication to make it a little easier on them.  

Before going on holiday, take a moment to double check that your pet's identification tags are current and accurate, including updated contact information. This simple step is crucial for ensuring a swift reunion in the unfortunate event that your furry friend becomes separated from you during your travels. By confirming that their microchip and tags are up to date, you provide vital information to anyone who may find them, increasing the chances of a successful reunion. Now you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about them straying too far.  

When packing for your trip, don't forget to include essential items for your pet. You might be able to buy some items when you get to your destination to save a bit of space in your luggage but there are some essentials they will need to have with them that come from home. 

One of the most crucial items to pack for your pet is their food and any necessary medications. Maintaining their regular diet can help prevent digestive issues, while having their medications on hand ensures continuity of care, especially for pets with specific health needs. They’re both essentials that are often difficult to replicate on your trip as you can’t just pop to a vet and insist on getting more medication without having to pay for a consultation and most likely get in contact with your usual vet.  

Food is a little easier when it comes to finding it during your holiday but you should make sure the country you’re traveling to also sells the particular diet that your pet is on. Switching food too quickly can lead to a severe stomach upset so it’s often easier just to bring enough with you for your holiday. 

To keep your pet entertained and alleviate boredom during travel and downtime at your destination, don't forget to pack their favourite toys and treats. Familiar items from home can provide comfort and enjoyment for your pet in unfamiliar surroundings. If you’re going to be leaving your pet for any period of time, they will need lots of enrichment to keep them entertained.  

It’s important to find a balance between providing familiar things that might already smell like home to comfort them along with some new and interesting activities to help to keep them stimulated. They’re going to be in a new place where all the sights, smells and noises are entirely different so the more distractions you can offer, the more they are likely to relax when they get tired.  

Once you've arrived at your destination, your responsibility as a pet parent doesn't end. It's crucial to continue providing proper care for your pet to ensure they remain happy and healthy throughout your trip. This means monitoring their food and water intake, ensuring they get enough exercise, and attending to any medical needs that may arise. When you’re away from home, it’s even more important to make sure you’re keeping an eye on your furry friends and taking action if they don’t seem to be coping well.  

Pets thrive on routine, and maintaining their regular schedule can help them adjust more easily to a new environment. Whether it's sticking to their usual feeding times, taking them for their daily walks, or setting aside time for play and cuddles, consistency is key. By providing familiar routines and activities, you can help alleviate any stress or anxiety your pet may experience in unfamiliar surroundings, ensuring they feel safe and secure throughout your travels. If you want to add an extra layer of comfort, you can also look for some stress relieving products to help them settle in.  

Exploring your destination for pet friendly outdoor areas and activities is not only enjoyable but also essential for your pet's well being. Find your closest parks, beaches, and hiking trails where your furry friend can stretch their legs, socialise with other pets, and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. Remember to always follow local rules and regulations regarding pets in public spaces to ensure a positive experience for everyone. Before you even book your holiday, you should consider prioritising areas that are pet friendly and make accommodations for holidaymakers with waggy tails!  

Part of being a responsible pet parent is cleaning up after your furry friend wherever you go. Whether you're exploring a city street or hiking in the wilderness, always carry waste disposal bags and promptly pick up any messes your pet leaves behind. Not only is this considerate to other travellers and the environment, but it also helps maintain cleanliness and hygiene in public areas. By taking responsibility for your pet's waste, you demonstrate good pet ownership and contribute to a positive travel experience for everyone. 

With careful preparation and planning, travelling with pets can be safe, smooth and enjoyable for both you and your furry companions. Focus on their health, comfort and local regulations to ensure the most relaxing getaway together. For all of your holiday essentials, visit us in store and online.