Summer Holiday Pet Checklist: Travel Essentials & Kennel Tips

Published on: Aug 23, 2017

Here’s my summer holiday check list for travelling with your pets. 

• Suncream – pet specific cream is recommended in fair or thin haired dogs to protect skin in exposed areas (tips of ears, nose etc) from strong UV light on sunny days 
• Microchip records up to date – in case the worst happens, and your dog gets lost in unfamiliar surroundings – if the contact details associated with the microchip aren’t current then they won’t be able to be recognised or traced at the local practice 
• Leads – keep dogs under close control on seaside walks to prevent a risk of accidents such as falling from cliffs, and remember to use them when walking in fields with livestock 
• Swimming – tides and under currents can be surprisingly strong around the British coast, so be aware when exercising your dog on the beach, and if they get into danger contact the coastguard rather than getting into danger yourself 
• Emergency – we are always able to be contacted for advice but it is a good idea to have a list of a few local, RCVS accredited veterinary practices at hand in case of emergency treatment being required 
• Medication – if your pet is on long term medication, make sure you pack enough that is required for your trip 
• Travel sickness – long journeys can cause nausea – this may be shown as restlessness, drooling, or vomiting. Breaking up the journey into shorter sections can help, or travel sickness medications are available from your practice – please ring for advice as your pet may require a check-up before any tablets are dispensed 
• Parasite prevention – certain areas such as grassland and woodland may be more likely to play host to parasites such as ticks, so make sure your treatment is up to date and that tick hooks are packed in case of any unwanted hitchhikers! 
• Passport – for travel abroad, both a pet passport and up to date rabies vaccination are required. Please check all requirements for travelling further afield than the UK are addressed and in good time so that there will be no issues when leaving the country 

If you can’t take your pet’s with you, here’s what you need to remember. 

• Vaccinations – please ensure your pets’ vaccinations are up to date well in advance of any kennelling so action can be taken to ensure full protection. Depending on the kennel, a kennel cough vaccination may be required, which may not have been given routinely before. Vaccination record books are usually required so don’t forget to bring them to the practice! 
• Anxiety – a change of environment can make for an anxious time. Anti-anxiety management is important, starting several days prior to you going away. This can be in the form of pheromone collars or calming supplements, so please call us for any advice 
• Food – if your pet is on a certain type of diet or suffers from any sensitivities, please make sure the kennels are aware to prevent any onset of vomiting or diarrhoea 
• Medication – if on long term medication, please ensure that sufficient medication is provided to the kennels and that they are comfortable in administering it, and are well aware of the condition your animal has, and signs to look out for if any problems are encountered 
• Contact details – it’s a good idea to inform kennels or pet sitters of your vet’s details in case a visit to the practice is required, and that a plan is in place with regards to payment if any treatment is required 

Whatever you get up to this summer, have a great one. 

Vet Greg