One crucial aspect of going on holiday is making sure that your pets are taken care of while you’re away. Whether you’re getting a pet sitter or making use of a kennel or boarding facility, there are a couple of things that you need to plan for in each instance.
Pet-friendly accommodation
Taking your pet with you on holiday is a privilege. You most probably booked pet-friendly accommodation in advance, so make sure that the facilities are happy with your pet and that the accommodation will be suitable for him. Remember to check that the accommodation will allow your pet to sleep with you on the bed if that is what he is used to.
One month prior
Whether your pet will accompany you on holiday or not, there are a few things you need to put in place and tick off your to-do list a month in advance.
Accompanying pet
- Confirm the accommodation, the dates and any payments you’ve made.
- Find out how many other pets will be at the accommodation and what procedures, if any, they have to keep pets apart and safe.
- Does your dog have to be on leash all the time, or will he be able to roam freely?
- If you haven’t yet done so, find out if there is a veterinary clinic close by in case of an emergency.
- Consult your vet and ensure that your pet is healthy for travel.
- Ensure that your pet’s rabies vaccine is up to date.
- Make sure your pet’s microchip is working and that your details are up to date.
Staying pet
- Check with the boarding kennel, pet sitter or doggy hotel that the booking is confirmed and that you’ve paid what you need to.
- Double check that the pet sitter will be comfortable handling your pets. For instance, if you have a bearded dragon or other reptile, that they won’t be scared of the animal.
- Ensure that all the necessary contracts and requirements are ready and signed where necessary.
- Get a health check for your pet from the vet.
- Ensure that all your pet’s vaccinations, including rabies, and tick and flea protection, are up to date.
- Make sure your pet’s microchip is in working order and that the details are correct.
One week prior
- If you haven’t done so yet, order pet food and make sure that you have enough for the duration of the holiday.
- Do any follow-up visits with the vet, if necessary, to ensure that your pet is ready to travel, or well enough for the pet sitter or boarding kennel.
- If your pet is on any chronic medication, make sure that you have enough to last him for the duration of your holiday.
- Check that your pet’s harness and carrier are intact and have them repaired or replaced if necessary.
- Also make sure that your dog’s seatbelt harness is in good condition. Replace it if there is any wear and tear.
- Make sure that your dog’s collar is intact and that the identification tag has the relevant information.
- Check your pet first-aid kit at home to see if all the supplies are still useable and haven’t expired, to ensure you have everything you might need while you are on holiday. If a pet sitter will be taking care of your pet, remember to show them where the first-aid kit is kept.
- Make a shopping list of items that you will need for your pet when you are on holiday, which might include treats, shampoo, poop bags and any items you need to replace.
- Make a list of everything you will need to pack for your pet for the long trip or the stay at the kennels or with the pet sitter.
- Make a list of all your pet’s requirements for the pet sitter. This list should include feeding times, how much of which food, medicine specifications and anything else that a pet sitter should know.
Happy planning. Time flies by so quickly, and before you know it, it will be time to depart. Don’t leave everything to the last minute – plan as much as you can in advance to make your holiday an enjoyable memory.
