Holiday planning for pet parents

 Pre- trip preparation:

• When booking accommodation make sure you look for a pet-friendly hotel or rental house
• Make sure that vaccinations and parasite protection are up-to-date, and your pet has been microchipped and has their ID tag
• Take a first aid kit for emergencies and any other necessary medication and medical records

Travelling by car:

• Make sure your pet is comfortable and used to riding in the car
• Use a restraint or carrier to keep the pet safe while driving
• Never leave your pet alone in a parked car, even if it is not hot outside
• Take a break at least every four hours, just like we do dogs need to go to the bathroom
• Ensure you have enough water available during the journey
• Avoid overheating at all times

Traveling by plane:

• Check the airline’s pet travel policies to ensure they can actually fly with you, and if they can be in the cabin or have to be in the hold
• Also check for specific breeds allowed onboard, as Brachycephalic dogs and cats for instance are often not allowed on some airlines, due to the higher risk of respiratory distress during the flight

If you are unable to take your dog or cat with you when traveling, there are several options to ensure they are well cared for while you are away… 

• Professional pet sitters can look after your dogs or cats in your home so they feel at ease in their usual habitat
• There are also nice kennels or catteries that offer comfortable accommodation, a social environment and supervision by trained people. In this case it’s often advisable to organise a ‘trial’ stay for few days before the holiday, to make sure your pet will be happy there.
• Family and friends can also help out and sometimes your pet will be most comfortable with people they know.

Check out the FECAVA Summer advice here.