Everything you need to know before taking your dog on holiday!

Kiwi enjoying her holiday to the beach!

Going on holiday with your dog sounds like a lot of fun, and it absolutely can be. Exploring new places together and making new memories is one of the best parts of having a dog.

But without a bit of planning, what should be a relaxing break can quickly become stressful for both you and your dog. Here is everything you need to know to help you both have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Choosing your destination The first decision is where you're going. Will you stay in the UK or head abroad?

If you're thinking about travelling overseas, there are a few extra things to consider. Your dog will need the correct travel documents and a rabies vaccination, which can be expensive. These can be arranged through your vet or a dedicated pet travel company but always make sure you're using a legitimate service.

You'll also need to think about how you'll get there. If you plan to fly, the UK does not allow dogs to enter the country with you in the cabin, meaning they have to travel in the hold. This can be a noisy and stressful experience for most dogs.

Also, consider how long the flight will be, as your dog won't have any opportunities for toilet breaks.

Driving could be a better alternative, but make sure you allow plenty of time for regular stops so your dog can stretch their legs, have a drink and go to the toilet.

Planning your journey

Even if you're staying in the UK, it's worth planning your journey carefully.

Travelling by car during school holidays often mean busy roads, so leaving a little earlier or later can help you avoid the worst of the traffic. If your journey is longer than a couple of hours, plan where you'll stop in advance.

Not all motorway services allow dogs inside, which can be tricky if you're travelling alone. On hot days you definitely don't want to leave your dog in the car while you nip inside, so choosing dog-friendly services can make life much easier.

Before you travel, make sure your dog is happy and comfortable in the car. If they find travelling stressful, get in touch with us before your trip and we'd be happy to help.

It's also a legal requirement to travel safely with your dog. The Highway Code states that you must:

"Make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars."

Check the weather

Wherever you're heading, keep an eye on the forecast.

Dogs can struggle in hot weather, and heatstroke can become life-threatening very quickly. If you're travelling during warmer weather, plan walks for the cooler parts of the day, make sure fresh water is always available and provide plenty of shade.

If you'd like more advice, have a read of our blog on keeping your dog cool in hot weather. Summer updates from The Dog Coaches

Is your accommodation really dog friendly?

There are some fantastic dog-friendly places to stay, especially around the UK. Many have enclosed gardens, dog showers and even welcome packs.

However, "dog friendly" doesn't always mean "dog safe."

It's worth packing a harness and long line (if your dog is happy using one) just in case you arrive to find a gap in the fencing or unexpected livestock next door.

This actually happened to me recently. The cottage we stayed in had chickens surrounded by an electric fence. Luckily, I'd packed Lyla's long line, so she could still have a good run around and go to the toilet safely without getting too close to the chickens.

Lyla meeting the chickens at our 'dog friendly' accommodation

Exploring somewhere new

A long line is also really useful when exploring unfamiliar places.

You won't always know whether it's safe to let your dog off lead, and local rules may be different from those you're used to at home. Beaches, country parks and nature reserves often have seasonal restrictions too. Check whether restrictions mean your dog can be off lead, needs to be on lead or if they are banned for the season.

Having a long line gives your dog a bit more freedom while still keeping them safe until you've had a chance to assess the area. If long lines aren't for you, then keeping your dog on lead in new places whilst you explore, will ensure they stay nice a safe.

Don't forget the essentials

Make sure they wear their collar and ID tag at all times and check your details are up to date on their microchip. You want to make sure your dog can be returned to you if they wander off in a new area.

Pack enough of your dog's usual food for the whole trip, as local pet shops might not stock the brand they eat.

If you feed raw or fresh food, check your accommodation has a freezer and transport it in a cool bag to keep it fresh.

If your dog needs frequent grooming, take your grooming kit. Or, if they’re likely to end up in the mud or playing in the sea, take your dog’s shampoo and plenty of towels so you can give them a wash. This also helps keep everything clean and makes sure you get your accommodation deposit back!

Don't forget any medication your dog needs either, including flea or worming treatments if they're due while you're away.

Lovely day for swim.

Holiday treats

We all enjoy treating ourselves on holiday, and it's tempting to spoil our dogs too.

A dog-friendly ice cream or puppuccino can be a lovely holiday treat, but try not to overdo it if your dog isn't used to lots of rich foods. Too many new treats can easily lead to an upset stomach, which nobody wants while they're away.

Dog enjoying a 'puppuccino'

Be prepared

It's always worth packing a basic canine first aid kit with essentials such as bandages, antiseptic wipes and a tick remover.

Before you travel, it's also a good idea to look up the nearest emergency vet to where you're staying. Hopefully you won't need it, but it's reassuring to know where to go if something unexpected happens.

Not sure what should be in a dog first aid kit? Why not join our Canine First Aid course on 15th November and learn everything you need to know? Find out more HERE

You never know when you'll need the first aid kit!

Expect your dog's behaviour to be a little different

A new environment can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming.

Your dog's training may seem to disappear for the first day or two while they take everything in. That's completely normal, so don't worry if it feels like you've taken a step backwards.

Give them plenty of opportunities to sniff and explore, while also making sure they have a quiet space where they can relax.

Bringing their own bed, favourite toys and sticking to their usual feeding and toileting routine can help them settle much more quickly.

Remember to build in some downtime

If your dog normally spends part of the day relaxing at home, suddenly being out exploring all day can be exhausting.

Try to include a rest day or two during your holiday. Spend the day in your accommodation (UK weather usually forces this), head to a quiet cafe for some rest or let them settle on the beach for a nap while you watch the sunset. If your accommodation allows your dog to be on their own (not many do) then you could even enjoy a meal at a restaurant that isn't dog friendly while your dog catches up on some sleep.

Moo and Kiwi enjoying some much needed downtime on the beach!

Is taking your dog the right choice?

Finally, have an honest think about whether your dog will actually enjoy the holiday.

Will you need to make sure every café, pub and restaurant you visit is dog friendly?

Some dogs absolutely love exploring new places and meeting new people. Others find it overwhelming and stressful.

As much as we'd all love to take our dogs everywhere with us, sometimes the kindest thing is to leave them at home with someone you trust, whether that's a friend, family member, a trusted dog sitter or a reputable boarding kennel. You can use our handy guide HERE for choosing the right boarder!

A happy, relaxed dog at home is often much better than a stressed dog on holiday.

With a little planning, holidays with your dog can be brilliant. Thinking ahead means you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your adventures together. Hopefully that is everything you need to know before taking your dog on holiday!