Living with pets is one of life’s greatest pleasures. There’s little better than sharing your home with a furry or scaly friend, whether you do so with children in tow or simply for a bit of non-human company each day. Cats and dogs naturally represent an overwhelming majority of pets kept in the UK, and rightfully so; each species shows its love in different ways, but the result for the soul is largely the same.
It’s only right, then, that when holiday season comes around, we think to bring our best creature-friends along for the ride too. There are practical reasons for such an undertaking, such as where arranging pet-sitting has proven impossible, but there are also some more selfish benefits associated with taking your pet with you on holiday. Whatever the core reason for bringing your pet on holiday, what are some key things to think about before you set off?
Photo by Meg Sanchez on Unsplash
Planning Ahead
Proper advance planning is quite rightly the most important thing you can do ahead of an all-household holiday that includes your pets. Every aspect of your holiday needs to be confirmed with your pet in mind; hotels don’t often take kindly to having a surprise pet arrive as part of a booking, and neither do airlines for that matter! It’s also worth researching where you can take your pets at your chosen destination, so as not to be disappointed.
While planning ahead, it can be a good idea to take a look at pet insurance policies to cover your furry friends on your travels. Pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment in the event of the worst-case scenario, meaning you won’t ruin your holiday and your bank account in one.
Packing a Pet Travel Kit
As the departure date nears, you can turn your mind to packing. Bear in mind that you’ll need to pack for your pets too, and that you’ll need to think carefully about what you bring as well. Toys, comforters and other such familiar items are great for keeping your favourite animal engaged and comfortable while in transit and at your accommodation; a portable pet crate with enough space to pad around can make manoeuvring your pet far easier, too. A collapsible water bowl and a sealable pouch for treats would collectively be the icing on the cake.
The Importance of Routine
However you travel, and however far you travel, it is key that you keep as regular a routine as possible – and that your pets’ pre-existing routines are adhered to where possible in the process. Many pets, dogs and cats particularly, struggle with changes to routine, and can even exhibit anxiety when their next moves are difficult to predict. Familiarity breeds comfort, and comfort breeds a fun holiday for all!
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