Travelling with your dog? Our nine-point checklist
It’s easier than ever to travel abroad with your family pet, but it does need some forward planning.
And putting some simple steps in place makes a huge difference, says one pet-lover, who regularly travels with her dog.
Jackie Mitchell, owner of PuparazziIt's distressing for the dog, but an unhappy animal in a car or train makes it uncomfortable for everyone
Here’s our guide to the dos and don’ts for ensuring your four-legged friend stays safe, secure and on the right side of the law.
Chips with everything
We’re not talking Brits abroad in Marbella here, your dog needs to be microchipped. It’s a legal requirement that all dogs in the UK are chipped, and if you’ve overlooked it before now you must get it done ASAP.
And all that jabs
Responsible dog owners will have their pets regularly immunised, but they will need to be up to date ahead of travel. Ask your vet if there are any additional jags you need for your particular destination, either to travel in or bring your pet back out. A rabies shot is a must for the Pet Passport.
Get the passport application in early
It’s not tricky, but there’s no emergency 24-hour service like there is for humans. A pet passport is part of a regulated scheme, agreed between EU countries and further afield.
Rover, do that research!
Quarantine rules of old have massively changed, but you will need to assess the rules in the country of destination. Also check that your airline, ferry or train route will accept pets.
Roll over Beethoven
Your pet’s safety and comfort should be your priority. Invest in a good sized travel box if they will be kennelled on a plane or ship, and make sure you have a cage or seatbelt if they are going in the car.
Comfort and joy
A familiar bed or blanket and some favourite toys can help reduce stress during any journey. Build in lots of time for comfort breaks, but also for some healthy exercise.
Plan ahead
Just like children, pets can suffer from travel sickness. Be sure to do a few test runs with short to medium length car journeys to build up their tolerance. If they are very distressed speak to your vet about additional help.
On the day itself
Don’t over-feed your dog, as that might make sickness a bit more likely. Little an often is the key, with lots of exercise along the way.
If you are travelling back to the UK from abroad there will be rules in place too. Your dog is likely to need more medication before returning, such as worming tablets. Consult your vet and online government advice with plenty of notice to ensure Fido doesn’t fall foul of the law.
Find out more about keeping your pets safe as you travel at PDSA.