Top Travelling Tips for Taking Pets on Holiday

 

Pet owners frequently take dogs, cats and other pets along for the ride on holiday, so why not do as the locals do and join the trend? Many travel organisations and hotels in recognize the special bond that pets and owners share, and that acceptance, combined with some pre-trip planning ensures that your pet never has to miss out on a trip to the UK or other destination.

1.) Don’t wait until departure to introduce restraint systems or carrier cages. If your pet is not comfortable with the idea of a cage or harness, forcing them to be compliant with it at the last moment before a trip will only leave both of you stressed and unhappy. Introduce your pet to their carrier or leash system well before the trip, smiling and interacting with them as you do. This will keep the confinement methods from being scary and difficult to work with for your furred or feathered friend.

2.) Do the proper research before bringing your pet along on a trip. Talking with the airlines, if applicable, as well as the hotel you will be staying with will give you a good idea of what to expect when you travel and arrive with a pet. A travel agent or company will also be able to provide this information for you upon booking, so be sure to ask up front when organising your trip.

3.) If possible, check up on your pet frequently. In some cases, such as on the airplane, this may not be easy to do, but make sure they are your last concern before boarding and your first concern as you exit to minimize separation anxiety. In all interactions with your pet be sure to keep your tone neutral and upbeat or they will quickly begin to echo your anxiety.

4.) Bring plenty of food. A dehydrated, uncomfortable or hungry pet will be considerably more difficult to deal with than one that is well cared for. Pets should have access to plenty of fresh water during the journey, as well as food and bathroom breaks at regular intervals. If they cannot be walked or exercised for a period of time, keep washable bedding or waste pads in their confinement area to absorb any accidents.

5.) Take your pet for trials before longer trips. Just like introducing them to their carrier ahead of time, taking a series of small trips with your pet before a longer journey will get them used to the process. When movement, travel noise and the scents of a new place become routine rather than frightening, your pet will be far more manageable during long travel hours.

The next time you’d like to visit someplace new,

use these tips to bring your pet along with you.

They’re sure to love the experience as much as you!

Lastly, if you are looking for blogs that feature traveling with pets, here is our running list:

• TheRoadForks

This post was brought to you by Show and Stay, the London theatre break specialists.