Tips for Travelling in the UK with a Dog

As a nation of dog lovers, the UK is pretty well-equipped for welcoming holidaymakers and their dogs to our cities, countryside and coastline. If you’re planning a trip with your pup, it pays to be prepared. Let’s take a look at what to consider when holidaying with your furry friend.

Before you book…

Firstly, think about whether your dog would benefit from a holiday. Do they enjoy car journeys and new places, or is the experience more likely to stress them out? If your dog has behavioural issues, anxiety, or aggressive tendencies, it may be best for you to consider pet sitters, kennels, or home boarding options instead.

Before reserving your accommodation, check that it’s dog-friendly and do some research into the surrounding area to make sure it’s suitable for you and your dog.

If your pet is a happy traveller, we’ve pulled together our top tips for travelling with your dog.

Make sure they’re microchipped

If you haven’t already, make sure your pooch is microchipped ahead of your holiday. If your dog is chipped, check that it’s working and that your contact details are up to date. A current chip would be vital if your dog were to slip their lead or escape from your holiday accommodation. If they get lost in unfamiliar territory away from home, your pet could struggle to find their way back to you.

Check their collar and ID tag

Before you leave, make sure your dog’s collar has an ID tag complete with up-to-date contact details for you. You might also want to consider adding an extra ID disc to their collar containing the details of your holiday accommodation. If your dog has form as an escape artist, you may like to think about investing in a GPS-tracking collar.

Take a dog lead and harness

Holidays are a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a break from the norm – including your usual dog walking routes. With new sights and smells for your dog to enjoy, you’ll probably want to get out and about even more than usual. Remember to pack your dog’s lead (taking both a short and extendable lead offers extra flexibility) and a harness so you can all enjoy exploring new places together.

Consider taking out dog insurance

Protecting your furry friend with a suitable dog insurance policy offers invaluable peace of mind that, should they injure themselves or fall ill whilst they’re at home or away, you have cover to help with the financial implications of vet treatment. Here at Healthy Pets, we offer a range of insurance policies, giving you choice if you decide to cover your companion. Benefits of dog insurance will vary, depending on the policy and cover level you choose. If you haven’t got cover yet, make sure to give yourself the time to work out which type of dog insurance is right for you.

Prepare your dog for the journey

If your pet isn’t used to travelling in the car or on a train, prepare them for your trip with shorter journeys around town. Find them a comfy blanket and clip a doggy seatbelt to their collar or harness. When you leave for your holiday, make regular pit stops on the way. They’re a great opportunity to give your dog some water and the chance to stretch their legs.

Remember their food and bowls

When packing for your holiday, bring more dog food than you think you will need for the duration of your break – just in case you can’t find their preferred brand whilst you’re away. Any sudden changes to their diet could potentially cause stomach upsets or put them off their food. If it helps, consider portioning out your dog’s food in sealable bags or containers.

If space in the car is an issue, collapsible food and water bowls pack small and are great for both holidays and day trips. Remember to bring a dedicated water bottle for top ups on the go… and don’t forget to pack their favourite treats!

Take their favourite bedding

As a creature of habit, your dog will find comfort in familiar items which smell like home – such as their usual bed or favourite blanket. Taking comfortable, clean dog bedding with you should help them settle. If you think your dog will feel stressed whilst travelling or on holiday, check with your vet for any recommended calming remedies.

Pack a towel or two

A staple in any dog owner’s kit – a towel will always come in handy. Whether it’s a walk on the beach or a swim in the river, packing a doggy towel will help to make sure you can dry them off without having to use your own towel, or any provided by your hosts.

Bring toys

From chew toys and teddies to their favourite ball, your dog will feel much more at home on holiday if their favourite toys are there too. Brain training and chew toys are great for keeping your dog relaxed and occupied whilst you rest or nip out.

Visit your vet

Annual vet visits are important as they help keep an eye on your dog’s overall health. A vet visit before a UK holiday may also be a good move as you can check that they’re up to date with their vaccinations, flea treatments and test that their microchip is working.