Have you ever day dreamed about your holiday of a lifetime, heading abroad with your dog?
The idea of taking our dogs abroad can appear daunting, as we’re faced by red tape and expense. But it doesn’t have to be like this. It is possible to make your dog part of your trip of a lifetime – and as a result, make it even more special.
With pet passports looking set to be reintroduced, thanks to a recent mooted UK-EU trade deal, taking your dog on holiday to EU countries is set to become much easier. Here, we share some advice and inspiration so you can turn your dream holiday into a reality…
Travel checklist: taking your dog abroad
Research your destination: Your first port of call when planning your getaway is how you’re going to get there. Your job list will include:
- Check the regulations of entering the country
- Take your pet to the vet for any required vaccinations or checks
- Ensure you have the relevant paperwork
- Plan for your return and any paperwork or vet checks you will need
The current travel rules to the EU require pet owners to get an animal health certificate every time they take a trip. The reintroduction of pet passports will phase this out and pets will be valid to travel for longer, as long as they as they remain up to date with vaccinations. However, the timescale for the implementation of pet passports is yet to be announced.
The important part of the process is timings. Most countries will want to ensure your pet is vaccinated against rabies so as not to pose a risk to anyone. The rabies vaccination usually has to take place in a certain window of time before travel, within parameters to ensure the vaccination is recent enough. If your pet is having a rabies booster jab, the window for having this before travel may be shorter as long as your dog’s vaccination status has been maintained.
Currently, dogs are required to be treated by a vet for tapeworm before re-entering the UK, too. Many vets across the world will help people travel with their canine companions so it is not as daunting as it sounds, but it could be worth researching vets that offer this service in your destination.
Useful resource: Taking your pet abroad (gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad) and returning home (gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain/pet-passport)
By sea or air: If you’re planning on driving and taking your pet on the train or ferry to mainland Europe, you will still need ensure all you have the relevant paperwork as described above. Dogs are permitted to travel on LeShuttle in your car, but if you’re travelling by ferry you will need to check with the operator on its pet policy.
If you’re planning on flying to your dream destination, your task list will include:
- Check your airline offers pet travel
- Book a dog-friendly flight and check the requirements
- Ensure your pet has an approved travel carrier
- Make the journey as comfortable as possible by providing the necessary items
Many airlines will allow your dog to travel in the hold of the airplane. Your canine companion will need to travel in an approved carrier and if you’re nervous about your pet flying (who isn’t?), it can be really worthwhile getting your dog used to the carrier. You can set it up at home and get your pet used to relaxing inside. Dogs often enjoy a den, so you can cover the outside with a blanket and feed your dog tasty treats while they are inside. Provide cosy blankets and water. You could give them a chew toy to enjoy in there, too. This will help build positive associations with the carrier and you can build up to locking it shut for periods, such as during the night. For the journey itself, calming supplements and a pheromone diffuser can help your dog to relax.
Useful resource: A list of airlines and airports that accept dogs (gov.uk/government/publications/pet-travel-approved-airsea-rail-and-charter-routes-for-the-movement-of-pets/approved-air-routes-for-pet-travel)
A dog-friendly break: Now, the fun bit! Where will your trip of a lifetime take you? Your travel checklist tasks will include:
- Plan what accommodation you will stay in
- Research the area for dog friendly rules, events, and attractions
- Think about times when your dog might not be with you – what is the plan for these moments?
- Prepare for how you’ll get around
There are a host of possibilities for your getaway! You could hire a motorhome, stay on a campsite, book an Airbnb, or check into a pet-friendly hotel. While you’re there you may wish to hire a car, so remember to check the hire company permits pets and offers a way to safely contain your pet while you drive. The type of holiday you choose is of course up to you... adventure? Relaxation? Or a mix of both?
Useful resource: A brilliant tool for planning a trip is bringfido.co.uk the website has information on accommodation, restaurants, and activities in places across the world