A lot of us are very attached to our pets and leaving them for lengthy periods while we are touring the country, can be a real problem. We have found someone who has put in a lot of effort to solve the problem of travelling with dogs and we include her very practical suggestions below.
Sandy Dennis wrote a book on Travelling with Dogs, which is currently being published by the “Life. Be in it “ organisation. The book contains listings of accommodation establishments which accept dogs and is available in bookshops. Here are some of her suggestions –
Booking your accommodation is essential
Remember to always ring the accommodation establishment to make a booking and discuss the conditions under which dogs are accepted and where your dog is allowed to sleep.
Vaccinations and Flea Free is vital
Check that your dog’s yearly vaccinations are current. If not, visit the vet before you set off. Carry a copy of your dog’s vaccination certificate with you. Make sure your dog is flea free. There are some excellent flea preventive products on the market that are easily and quickly applied.
Identification is essential
Ensure that you have an ID disk and your dog’s council registration disk attached to your dog’s collar. This should give the dog’s name, your mobile telephone number and the phone number of a friend back home.Microchipping is highly recommended as it provides a permanent form of identification. Often collars are missing and tags can be lost, unreadable or out of date. The tiny chip is quickly and easily injected beneath the skin by your vet. You then complete a Microchip Subscription form that contains your dog’s microchip number, your address and contact information.
Packing for the holiday
- Dogs bed, bedding and furniture throw overs – should be freshly washed and flea free.
- Throw overs to protect furniture and floors in your rented accommodation are very important. When you leave there should not be any trace that your dog has been in residence. Please take note if accommodation owners say “No dogs on furniture.”
- Dog food, water container, eating and drinking bowls. Don’t forget them and make sure they are washed.
- First Aid Kit
- You should have one for yourself and one for your dog. Your vet can suggest what should go into the dog’s. You may find a dog’s first aid kit at your vets. If not, ask them where you could buy one in your area.
Travelling in the car
Secure your dog. There are specially designed dog seat belts available. Dogs should not be allowed to wander around the car freely. Distracting the driver is dangerous and non restrained dogs can be come missiles and injure themselves and others in the event of sudden braking or an accident.
Avoid fatal heatstroke. Never leave your dog in the car for more than a few minutes – especially in summer or during warm weather. Death can occur from heatstroke within minutes, even with the windows slightly open or parked in the shade.
Take regular travel breaks. Remember travelling dogs not only need stops for water and for relieving themselves. They need some exercise too.
For dog’s sake, pick it up!!
Never allow your dog to foul areas you visit such as pavements, lawns, gardens, beaches, parks or camping areas. Always carry a “pooper scooper” and clean up after your dog wherever you go. An Envirolead allows you to carry your dog’s droppings to the nearest bin. You can also use a plastic bag. Keep a stock with you and take one when you go for a walk.
Good dog behaviour
Train your dog in elementary obedience and good manners so that it does not disturb other people, other pets, animals or birds.Remember, barking dogs will offend other holiday makers, neighbours and the accommodation operator. Stop them and keep them under control.Keep your dog on a lead when there are farm animals, livestock or wildlife around and of course, anywhere near a road or young children.Never let your dog wander or scavenge. It should be under your control at all times.
Be responsible and obey regulations and guidelines
Don’t take your dog into restricted areas such as national parks or onto beaches where dogs are banned.
Always follow the guidelines set down by the accommodation managers
Be fully aware that these facilities are doing you a favour in allowing your dog to stay with you on their premises. Please abide by the regulations and leave no sign that your dog has visited. Don’t spoil the situation for yourself and other pet owners.