You’ve worked hard all year to be able to head away for a couple of weeks of guaranteed sunshine, but whilst it is possible to take pets abroad, it is often easier for them to remain in the UK. So how do you decide what the best option is for your furry friend whilst you are away, and how should you prepare them for your time away?

There used to be only one real option when you went abroad, which was using boarding kennels. Nowadays, however, there are also home boarders who will have your pet(s) to stay with them, or pet sitters who will stay in your home and look after your pet(s) whilst you are away.

Whichever option you choose, there are some simple things that you can do to prepare for their ‘holiday’ whilst you are on yours.

Vaccinations
It is important to ensure that all their vaccinations are up to date, particularly if your pet will be with other animals when you are away. Kennel cough, for example, is a highly contagious infection, which isn’t just a condition that is picked up by dogs in kennels. It is transferred through the air, by play and contact with toys, bowls, shared bedding etc., so it is recommended that the Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccine is added to your vaccination list. Consider vaccinations for non-UK diseases if you are taking them abroad.

Microchip and Vet Details
Whoever is looking after your pet when you are away, ensure that they are aware of any current medication, pre-existing conditions and also give them your veterinarian’s contact details in case of illness or an emergency. It is also recommended that you update your pet’s microchip records with their holiday home contact details in the event that they go missing whilst you are away. Advise any carers that you have done this and remember to remove their details when you return.

Insurances and Certification
Whichever option you choose, ensure that whoever looks after your pet has relevant insurance and certification to look after them as you would want them to. It is also recommended that you have pet insurance to cover unexpected costs whilst you are away. If you are taking your pet abroad, check that your insurance provider covers your pet whilst abroad.

Which holiday option is best for your pet?

Boarding kennels
Good boarding kennels can offer a cost-effective solution; however, it is recommended that you visit the kennels and ensure that they can offer the type of care that you would give yourself. Do they exercise your animals as you would? Are there separate quarters for cats and dogs? Will your pet be expected to mix with other animals? If so, are they used to meeting other animals? You will need to check that the kennel is warm, secure, clean and dry, with plenty of comfortable areas for your pet. Most kennels encourage you to bring bedding and toys to help with settling in, some kennels, however, don’t.
Home Boarders
Home Boarders will have your pet to stay with them. This can be like a home from home, but some dogs find living in an alien environment stressful. Many home boarders have pets of their own, which can also be problematic. The home boarder may also have children, so consider how your pet reacts to young people. It is important to visit the home and decide for yourself if you are comfortable with the living arrangements and exercise routines, particularly for dogs. As cats tend to roam, it isn’t recommended that they are allowed out when staying elsewhere, so check that the home is secure.

Since October 2018, it has been a legal requirement for home boarders to be licenced by their local Council. Ask to see their licence and other necessary paperwork, such as insurance details and any relevant training certification.
Pet sitters
Pet sitters will live in your home with your pets. This can be particularly useful and cost-effective if you have multiple animals. It also means that there is someone living in your house whilst you are away, which is considered a benefit to some people, but seen as a risk by others. Your pets are likely to be less stressed remaining in their home environment, although it is important for them to meet the pet sitter a few times before you leave to ensure that they are comfortable with the person staying with them.

Pet sitters don’t need a licence; however, reputable ones will want to show you their training and insurance certificates and should be DBS checked (the government Disclosure and Barring Service scheme).
Taking them with you 
This is not an exhaustive list, as there are a variety of options and considerations; however, these are broadly the areas to think about when taking your pet with you on holiday.

In addition to considering how your pets will cope with their journey, it is also worth considering how they will react to the differences in environments (especially hotter temperatures when abroad) and what vet and exercise facilities will be available. It is also recommended to check with your accommodation regarding rules and regulations about pets and to find out if they are likely to be able to accompany you to restaurants, attractions etc. For travel within the EU, you will need to obtain an animal health certificate (AHC), or for travel outside the EU, an export health certificate (EHC).

How can Peacock Vets help?
We are happy to talk through any concerns that you may have before you head off on your holidays and discuss relevant vaccinations or certification needed for your pets. Our Pet Behaviourist may also be able to help your pet if they are particularly anxious in new environments or with animals that they are not used to interacting with.
Call in, or contact us in a variety of ways.