DrKatrina.com

Nothing is more fun than a family holiday when the pets are invited too.  Careful preparation is the key to ensuring the whole family has a safe and enjoyable time. Here are some tips to help with your travels.

• A visit to the vet prior to departure is recommended to make sure your pet is up to date with worming. Vaccinations etc. Your vet may be able to give you something to help with car sickness if necessary.
• Always have an ID tag with a contact number of where you are staying. Your usual phone number is no good as you are not home and mobile reception is often poor when out of the city. For pet tags you can order on line and are posted within 24hours, visit www.pet-tags.com
• Be sure to check with your accommodation about their particular rules- some places do not allow pets indoors or to be left unsupervised. Make sure that the property is properly fenced.
• When travelling in a car be sure to have cats and small dogs confined in a crate and large dogs harnessed. This prevents them from becoming flying missiles, should you have an accident.
• Make sure you have regular toilet and water breaks. With cats, it is best to offer them a litter tray inside the car unless they are trained to a lead or harness. Cats are far more likely to bolt off in strange territory. 
• When you arrive at your destination keep your pet confined indoors. With dogs, be sure to keep them on a leash for the first couple of days whenever you are outdoors.
   

WHAT TO PACK

• Bedding, home comforts and favourite toys to help them relax
• Your pets usual food- you can never rely on being able to buy it at you holiday destination and you don’t want        unnecessary tummy upsets.      
• Flea and tick prevention- it is very important to know if you are travelling to a paralysis tick area and if so, use a preventative medication and check your pet for ticks thoroughly every day   
• Shampoo, portable water bowl (these are great!), towels and grooming equipment.

If you are flying with your pet, make sure you prebook him or her. You will need to buy or hire a crate and will need to check your petl in at least an hour before the scheduled departure time.

Don’t attempt to travel with your dog if he does not have basic obedience training- you don’t want your dog to damage property or upset neighbours by barking all night. You really need a well socialised dog that gets on with other animals or people otherwise you may end up with a holiday from hell!

Do your research BEFORE you go regarding local vets in the holiday area, dog friendly beaches and parks etc.

 I don’t recommend you ever let a cat outside in a new environment unless on a lead. Cats can frighten very easily and run off in a panic and get lost.