Summertime! Let’s go on holiday! Oh WAIT, what about my pet?

By planning ahead, staying informed about pet travel regulations and ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety during your journey, you can have an enjoyable summer trip with your dog or cat. Think about…

  • 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
  • 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
  • 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.

 

Summer is a fun season because it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy activities with our pets. It’s the perfect time for outdoor activities and adventures with our furry friends.

But with the warmer temperatures and exposure to the sun, we must take extra care so they aren’t overheating or becoming dehydrated.

Dogs are known to cool down differently than people do – dogs pant to keep cool and sweat through their paws, cats clean and lick themselves as a method to cool down with their saliva.

It’s very important to keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or vomiting. If you suspect your pet is overheating, move them to a cooler area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian. Be aware also that Flat Faced dogs and cats, like pugs, bulldogs or Persians and even rabbits are more susceptible to heat stroke, as they have more difficulties in cooling down.


We have some tips to help you be mindful of your pets’ needs, to make sure they stay safe and healthy during the summer months.

  • Provide enough water: fresh drinking water should always be available. Water can also be provided by way of ice cubes, be creative and make an ice-pop for your dog or cat as a fun treat or toy.
  • Provide access to cool places, shade and shelter. There are special cooling mats for pets, but simple cooling tricks such as popping a plastic water bottle in the freezer for them can also help.
  • It might seem like a good idea to be outside in the fresh air, but  in the hottest moments of the day, beaches or open parks are not always a good idea as there is no shade.
  • Avoid intensive exercise during the day. Dogs suffer faster from heat than people, so schedule exercises in the early morning or late evening. Dogs often do not know their own limits and will keep on playing fetch with a ball until they overheat.
  •  Brush your dog or cat regularly, but do not shave them! Their fur is a protection against the cold but also against the heat, as it works as an isolating layer.
  • Short-haired breeds can get sunburned, so use a pet-safe sunscreen. Not sure if your pet needs sunscreen? Ask your vet! Be extra careful if your cat has white ear tips as there is a link between sunburn and malignant tumours in cats. In these cats the use of sunscreen is a must.
  • Pay extra attention to their paws! A hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws, so it’s always better walk on the grass or in the shade.
  • Pay extra attention to hygiene. Warm weather makes Bacteria and Algae grow rapidly. So be careful with water in puddles or ponds. And don’t leave open pet food packs outside the refrigerator for too long. Always remember to thoroughly clean their food and water bowls daily..
  • In summer we also see more parasites like ticks and fleas: ask your veterinarian to advise you on the best protection products for your pets as they are the experts.
  • Lastly, but very importantly: NEVER leave pets alone in parked cars, even when you leave the window cracked open! The inside of a car can quickly reach dangerously high temperatures. If you see a pet in a closed vehicle, try to contact the owner of the car or the police to save the pet.

Just like us, staying hydrated is essential to keep your fur-baby’s health and well-being. It’s even more important during hot summer months.


Keep an eye on water levels

It can be hard to know exactly how much water your pet is drinking, paying attention to how much has gone each time you refill their bowls can help. It can harder for cat parents, so you will need to be extra vigilant to see if they’re drinking enough.

All pets need more water during the hotter months of the year. So remember to always bring water with you when you take your dog for a walk, leave an extra bowl in your rabbit’s hutch and if your cat likes to venture outside, make sure to leave a bowl in your garden or on your terrace.

It’s also important to be mindful of the activity levels or your four-legged friends. Really active pets will drink more water than calmer pets and may need more water available.

Keeping your pet hydrated in hot days

  • Have multiple water bowls of fresh water around the house to give your furry friend plenty opportunities to stay hydrated
  • Some animals, particularly cats, prefer to drink running water, so automatic water fountains can stimulate them drink a bit more.
  • Make them frozen treats! Ice cubes or frozen treats not only help keep them hydrated but also cool them down, great for really hot days.
  • Consider wet food or add a little bit of water to their dry food. Including water in their meals or treats will also increase their daily intake and help keep them hydrated throughout the day.
  • Giving you pet rabbits fresh vegetables that are rich in water also does the trick. But remember, only 15% of their daily food should be vegetables.

Watch out for these signs of dehydration

  • Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
  • Loss of energy
  • Excessive, ongoing panting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sunken, dry eyes
  • Dry, sticky gums
  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Urinating less frequently

If you have any concerns or worries always contact your vet for advice.

Caring for pets during the summer months requires special attention to ensure their wellbeing and comfort. Hot weather can bring challenges and risks for our furry friends. Here are some essential tips to help you care for your pets over the hot Summer months:


Hydration is Key:

Just like their owners, it is important to stay hydrated in the Summer heat.  Pets must have access to clean, fresh water at all times. One tip is to leave multiple bowls of water around your home.

Avoid Over-heating:

Some pets find it hard to regulate their body temperature and keep cool.  It’s important to keep them in calm and comfortable surroundings.  Also, limit your pets’ outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. If you have a dog, choose cooler times of the day such as early mornings or late evenings for walks.

Provide Shade:

Ensure your pets have access to shaded areas both indoors and outdoors. You can use fans or air conditioning to create a comfortable environment. Cooling mats or damp towels can also help.

Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars:

Many holidaymakers drive long journeys for their Summer holidays.  However, at home or away, never leave a pet unattended in a parked car as it can be extremely dangerous in the Summer heat.

Avoid Hot Surfaces

Remember that pet’s paws can burn on hot surfaces. If you walk your dog in the cooler parts of the day, this may not be a problem. However, the grass in your garden can also heat up and burn your pet’s paws so take care.

Watch for Heatstroke:

If you suspect your pet has heatstroke, move them somewhere cool, provide water and consult your vet with any concerns.

Watch out for Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes:

Parasites are more prevalent during the summer months. Make sure your pets are protected with the appropriate flea and tick treatments. Small mammals such as Guinea Pigs can suffer from infestations in the heat, so do take care and consult your vet for any advice or treatment.

Plan your holiday pet care:

If you are planning a Summer holiday, make sure you have appropriate pet care sorted.  Make sure your sitter is briefed on your pet’s usual routine, pet food and vet’s contact details.

Research if travelling with your pet:

If you are travelling abroad, you need to do some research as requirements will depend on destination.  Always consult your vet and it is likely there will be paperwork and possibly quarantine requirements. Ensure that your insurance covers your pet’s holiday and locate the nearest veterinary practice. If you are staying closer to home, do your best to stick to your pet’s usual routine to make them feel as comfortable as possible.

Monitor your pet’s appetite:

Your pet’s appetite may be affected by the Summer heat and any changes to routine can make them anxious resulting in a reduced appetite. You can help your pet by ensuring it’s routine is as normal as possible and by providing a cool environment for feeding time. You may need to provide smaller and more frequent meals although take care it doesn’t spoil in the heat. Staying hydrated is always important too.

By following these tips, you can help your pets stay healthy, happy, and safe through the Summer season.


One of the best parts of the summer season is undoubtedly the holiday period that comes with it. However, holidays may be challenging for pet parents as there are a number of considerations to keep in mind. There is a certain amount of planning required whether you plan to travel with your pet or whether you plan to leave them in someone else’s care. If you belong to the party who enjoys travelling with your pets, read this blog for some tips and tricks on how to travel safely with your pet.

The rules for travelling with pets in the EU

Travelling within the EU and to the EU (i.e. 27 EU countries + Norway and Northern Ireland) with your pets is relatively easy, especially if you own a cat, dog or ferret. To travel to or within the EU, your pet needs to:

  • Have been micro-chipped or have a clearly readable tattoo if applied before 3 July 2011,
  • Have been vaccinated against rabies,
  • Have had treatment against the Echinococcus multilocularis, where your destination area is free from this tapeworm (Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway and Northern Ireland),
  • Have a valid European pet passport when travelling within the EU. This document contains a description and details of your pet, vaccination records and contact details of the owner and the vet who issued the document.
  • Have an EU animal health certificate when travelling to the EU if you do not reside in a Member State. This document contains specific information about your pet including identity, health, and rabies vaccination.

Travelling by car

There are several ways to ensure safe travel with your pet by car. While dogs may like to move about in the car, the safest way for them to travel by car is in a crate that has been fastened to the vehicle with a seat belt. Similarly, cats should also not be allowed to move freely around the car and, therefore, they should stay in a carrier while travelling. Furthermore, remember not to leave your pets alone in the car, especially during hot weather as high temperatures could be fatal for them.

Travelling by airplane

Travelling by airplane is a more challenging option for your furry friend. However, if transporting your pet by air is your only option, the safest way for your pet to travel would be in the cabin with you. If this option is not possible, here’s a few tips for having your pet travel in the cargo of the plane:

  • Use direct flights to avoid any mistakes or mix ups during airline transfer.
  • Ask the airline if you can watch your pet being loaded into the cargo hold and unloaded.
  • When you board the plane, notify the captain and at least one flight attendant that your pet is travelling in the cargo hold.
  • Don’t ever ship brachycephalic animals such as Pekingese dogs, bulldogs or Persian cats in the cargo holds.
  • Fit your pet with a collar that can’t get caught in carrier doors and affix a travel label to the carrier with your contact details.
  • Do not feed your pet for four to six hours before the trip.

Travelling by ship or train

Travelling by ship within or to the EU with your pet is relatively easy as there are many pet-friendly ferry companies around the continent. When boarding the ferry with your furry friend, make sure to arrive in advance in case authorities need to check the documents for your pet. Furthermore, if you are travelling with a dog, they may be required to stay in a ship kennel. For more info on pet-friendly ferry companies from the UK to the EU, click here, and for more info on those within the EU, click here.

Similarly, travelling by train with your pet in the EU is relatively easy. Generally, small pets are allowed to travel on European trains for free while bigger pets need to be muzzled and kept on a leash and can usually travel for a reduced rate. More information on specific EU countries and the UK can be found here and here.