DrKatrina.com

Nothing is more fun than a family holiday when the pets are invited too.  Careful preparation is the key to ensuring the whole family has a safe and enjoyable time. Here are some tips to help with your travels.

• Always have an ID tag with a contact number of where you are staying. Your usual phone number is no good as you are not home and mobile reception is often poor when out of the city. For pet tags you can order on line and are posted within 24hours, visit www.pet-tags.com
• Be sure to check with your accommodation about their particular rules- some places do not allow pets indoors or to be left unsupervised.
• When travelling in a car be sure to have cats and small dogs confined in a crate and large dogs harnessed. This prevents them from becoming flying missiles, should you have an accident.
• Make sure you have regular toilet and water breaks. With cats, it is best to offer them a litter tray inside the car unless they are trained to a lead or harness. Cats are far more likely to bolt off in strange territory. 
• When you arrive at your destination keep your pet confined indoors. With dogs, be sure to keep them on a leash for the first couple of days whenever you are outdoors.
• Pack a first aid kit- you would be surprised how handy they can be. Think about the dangers in your holiday area- snakes, ticks etc and be prepared. If you are in a high risk tick area, visit the vet before departure and use preventative medication
• Pack your pets bedding and home comforts to help relax them and try and spend as much time as possible with them for the first couple of days.
• Don’t forget to pack your pets usual food- you can never rely on being able to buy it at you holiday destination and you don’t want unnecessary tummy upsets.         
• I have a check list of things I pack for Toby including: His regular food, Portable water bowl (these are great!),   Shampoo (because he always ends up dirty or swimming), Towels, Grooming equipment ,Advantix drops for flea and tick control, Favourite toys , Treats, Poo Bags, His bed because I never know exactly where Toby will be sleeping and I like to give him some familiar comforts.
• If you are flying with your pet, make sure you –prebook him or her. You will need to buy or hire a crate and will need to check your petl in at least an hour before the scheduled departure time.
• A visit to the vet prior to departure is recommended to make sure your pet is up to date with worming. Vaccinations etc. Your vet may be able to give you something to help with car sickness if necessary.
• Don’t attempt to travel with your dog if he does not have basic obedience training- you don’t want your dog to damage property or upset neighbours by barking all night. You really need a well socialised dog that gets on with other animals or people otherwise you may end up with a holiday from hell!
• Do your research BEFORE you go regarding local vets in the holiday area, dog friendly beaches and parks etc.

•  I don’t recommend you ever let a cat outside in a new environment unless on a lead. Cats can frighten very easily and run off in a panic and get lost.