Our pets are very much part of the family and usually like to spend time with their owners.
Travelling can be a stressful experience for some pets and many are unsettled in a new environment.
Many owners choose to make arrangements for someone else to care for their pets while they are away.
However, if you need to take any pet on a longer journey it is important that you are properly prepared.
Pets from the UK are now permitted to travel abroad and return home without a quarantine period provided strict rules are followed.
Animals travelling abroad require a pet passport and must be vaccinated against rabies.
There are a number of other potential problems to consider before taking your pet on holiday with you so always consult your vet for advice before travelling.
Although the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) is now fully operational, allowing limited movement of pets through some countries and the UK, many pet owners still prefer to leave their pets behind when they go away.
There are three choices for pet care while you are absent:
Place you pet in a boarding cattery / kennel, ask a friend or neighbour to take your pet into their home or find a “pet-sitter” to come to your home to care for your pet.
It is always a worry having to leave your pet with strangers but it doesn’t have to be stressful if you follow some of our tips when choosing temporary home for your furry friend.
Firstly, and probably most importantly, ask your friends and family for any recommendations, if they have had a good experience then hopefully so will you and your pet.
If this isn’t possible, then make plenty of enquiries and visit two or three establishments before you make a decision.
Find out their opening hours and visit unannounced and ask to be shown around – this shouldn’t be a problem for them and they should be happy to take you around and show you all their facilities.
Take particular notice of the quality and cleanliness of the individual units: are they clean, dry and draught-free; are the water bowls full and clean; is there access to an outside run and covered area; are they secure? Take particular note of the animals currently boarding, do they look happy and content?
Ask lots of questions about how much human interaction your pet will receive, is bedding provided or do they encourage you bring your own?
The staff should also ask you questions so they can get to know your pet, if they don’t then be wary.
They should ask you if your vaccinations are up-to-date, your pet’s name, age, diet, special requirements, likes and dislikes and details of your regular vet and contact details of any friends or family that they can get in touch with in an emergency.
Make sure you book well in advance, a popular cattery or kennel will fill up quickly.
If you would prefer not to leave your pet in a boarding kennel you could ask a friend or a member of your family to look after your them while you go on holiday. You’ll be at ease knowing your pet is in the best hands while you are away.
There are also companies that offer pet-sitting services. This involves someone coming to your house to feed, exercise and water your pet while you are away; good pet-sitting services will also take time out for playtime and cuddles!
