Holidaying With Your Pet: How to Plan a Trip Everyone Enjoys

Planning a holiday is exciting, but when you have a pet, there is a little more to think about than simply packing a suitcase and booking accommodation. Whether you are planning for a long weekend, visiting family, or planning a trip abroad, taking your pet with you can be a lovely experience with the right preparation. A successful trip is not just about choosing somewhere that allows pets. It is about making sure the journey, the destination and the routine all work for your pet too.

For many pets, especially dogs, a holiday with their favourite people can be a wonderful adventure. New places to explore, different walking routes and plenty of time together can make for a very happy break. For others, particularly some cats or more anxious dogs, staying in familiar surroundings with a trusted pet sitter or boarding provider may actually be the kinder choice. The best holiday plan is always the one that puts your pet’s welfare first.

Is Your Pet Suited to Travelling?

Before making any bookings, it is worth asking a simple question: will your pet genuinely enjoy this trip?

Some dogs are naturally confident, sociable and adaptable. They cope well with car journeys, sleep happily in new places and enjoy being out and about. Others can find travel stressful. They may become unsettled in the car, anxious in unfamiliar environments, or overwhelmed by busy holiday settings. Cats, rabbits and other small pets often find travel more difficult and may be far happier staying at home with proper care arranged.

Choosing the Right Destination

Try to choose accommodation with enough space for your pet to settle comfortably. Secure outdoor areas are especially helpful for dogs, and easy access to quiet walking routes can make the whole holiday more relaxing. It is also a good idea to check any rules in advance. Some places welcome pets in all areas, while others restrict where they can sleep or whether they can be left unattended.

You should also think about the area itself. Are there safe walking routes nearby? Are there pubs, cafés or attractions that allow pets if you plan to take them out with you? A bit of research beforehand can save a lot of stress once you arrive.

Preparing for the Journey

Travel can be one of the biggest challenges for pets, so planning really matters.

If your dog is not used to longer journeys, build up gradually before your trip. Short car rides that end somewhere pleasant, such as a walk, can help create positive associations. Make sure your pet is safely secured during travel, using a well-fitted harness, crate or carrier as appropriate. For longer trips, plan regular breaks so your dog can stretch, sniff and have a toilet stop.

Create a checklist for packing that includes their regular food, treats, bowls, bedding, collar and ID tag, harness, lead, favourite toys, grooming items, medication, and any necessary paperwork. If your dog takes prescription medication, check you have enough for the whole trip plus a little extra in case of delays.

A familiar blanket or bed can make a surprising difference. Holiday homes may smell and sound strange at first and having something that smells of home can help your pet settle more quickly.

Travelling Abroad with Your Pet

If you are travelling abroad, preparation becomes even more important.

Since the UK exited the EU, UK pet passports are no longer accepted. An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is now required each time you travel.

Please contact us well in advance of your travel date for advice and information.

In order to take your cat, dog or ferret out of the UK to an EU/listed country, your pet must:

Be microchipped.
Be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entry. Animals must be at least 12 weeks of age to be vaccinated against rabies.
Be issued with an AHC within 10 days of travel (5 for some countries)

In order to take your cat, dog or ferret out of an EU/listed country and back into the UK, your pet must:

Be microchipped.
Be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entry into the UK; either a booster is administered (provided there is time) or a full vaccine.
Be treated for tapeworms by a vet one to five days before the scheduled arrival time in the UK (dogs only).

Your pet can also enter the UK on an EU pet passport if they are normally resident in the EU, although the above regulations will still apply.

You can find more information on our website 🔗 https://foresthousevets.com/services/pet-travel/

Helping Your Pet Settle In

When you arrive, give your pet time to adjust. Even confident pets can need a little while to feel comfortable in a new environment.

Set up their bed, bowls and familiar belongings in a quiet spot as soon as possible. For dogs, take them around the garden or outside area on a lead first, so they can explore safely. Keep your routine as normal as you can, including mealtimes, walks and bedtime. Pets often settle more easily when the structure of their day feels familiar.

Try not to expect too much too soon. A holiday can be exciting, but it can also be tiring. Some dogs become overexcited in new places and need more rest than owners realise.

Keeping Your Pet Safe on Holiday

New places bring new risks. Different plants, livestock, unfenced areas, hot weather, busy roads and unfamiliar dogs can all present challenges.

Always keep your dog on a lead if you are unsure of the surroundings, especially near roads, cliffs or livestock. If the weather is warm, avoid walking during the hottest part of the day and never leave your pet in a parked car.

It is also worth finding the vet nearest to your accommodation when you arrive, just in case you need help unexpectedly.

A Good Holiday Should Feel Like a Holiday for Them Too

If you plan with your pet’s needs in mind, choose the right environment, and keep their routine and comfort front and centre, a holiday together can be hugely rewarding.

A good holiday is not about taking your pet everywhere. It is about helping them feel safe, comfortable and cared for every step of the way.