Everyone in the car? Check. Tails wagging? Check. Bags packed? Check… oh wait… we forgot the dog’s bag!

Taking your dog on holiday is up there with the top experiences. Sharing seaside chips, paddles in the sea, long and happy walks… bliss. But whether you’re travelling to your dog friendly holiday destination by plane or car, there are a few things to remember to pack.

You don’t want to arrive, miles from home, without your dog’s favourite toy or hard to replace specialist food. And you definitely don’t want to forget doggy medication!

With a bit of extra preparation and writing a list of things to pack, you’re sure to avoid disaster and have happy travels and happy holidays.

To help, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 essentials to pack for your dog on holiday to make your trip stress free and comfortable:

1. Water and Travel Water Bowls

You’ll probably have access to plenty of water when you arrive at your dog friendly holiday cottage, but what if your dog gets thirsty on the way? Take a few bottles of fresh water and a collapsible bowl is super handy for stashing away in the car or in your bag.

2. Your Dog’s Usual Dog Food

Avoid tummy upsets at all costs and bring your dog’s usual dog food. While dog food is easily found in most supermarkets, it’s especially important to have their normal brand with you to prevent changes in diet. And sometimes, specialist dog foods can be difficult to come by. Better not take the risk.

3. The Tastiest Doggy Treats 

There are going to be plenty of occasions on holiday, and while travelling, that you’ll need a few tricks up your sleeve to keep your pup occupied. And it’s their holiday too! So spoil them with all of their favourite treats. You’ll be rewarded with lots of doggy licks and wet nose boops.

4. Doggy Towels and Wipes (in Case of Accidents)

Labrador and Spaniel owners will be used to having towels on hand for wet and muddy paws (and the rest). But, even for water loathing dachshunds, you’re going to need towels and wipes unless you want to redecorate your car and holiday cottage in paw prints!

5. Collar or Harness (with ID Tag) and Lead 

All dogs must be kept on a lead in most public places. So you don’t want to be caught out without your dog’s collar or harness or a lead. And, of course, you’ll need your details attached to your dog in some form, usually a tag. It may seem an obvious one but add it to the list just in case!

6. Doggy Prescription Medication

Not as easy to replace once you arrive at your destination. There may be nearby vets but who wants the extra cost and hassle when on holiday? If there’s one thing to remember to pack, it’s your doggy’s medication. Then everyone can relax and enjoy their howl-idays.

7. Favourite Doggy Toys

Would your dog forgive you if you forgot their absolute favourite toy? The threat of puppy dog eyes and howls of disappointment await if you don’t pack that threadbare, smelly old duck toy. And why not throw in a pack of balls for all those you’re going to lose at the beach.

8.  Snuggly Doggy Blankets and Bedding

Even if your dog friendly holiday cottage is providing doggy bedding for you, we’d highly recommend bringing your dog’s own bedding too. Familiar smells from home will encourage them to settle into their new home away from home much quicker.

9.  Poo bags

Have you ever been caught out without a poo bag? Devastating… and illegal! You may be mid car journey when your dog tells you they can’t cross their legs any longer. Pack the poo bags. And then pack some more. Better safe than sorry. Believe us!

10. Doggy Documents (if you’re Flying)

If you’re driving and staying in the same country, you can probably ignore this one. But for those taking their dogs on a plane or crossing the border, check the airline and country’s requirements. Some will ask for vaccination records or doggy passports.

11. Crate, Carrier or Harness for Safe Travels

The Highways Code obligates owners to keep their dogs suitably restrained in the car. This could be a crate or carrier, suitably secured in the boot or to a seat, or you could use a harness and attach it to a seat belt. Check what suits your four legged passenger best.

12. Canine First Aid Kit

You’ll have already researched where your nearest vet will be for emergencies but a doggy first aid kit is super handy, especially to have in the car. It’ll save rushing out to buy antiseptic cream or using your favourite jumper to stop a bleed.

13. Dog-tastic Entertainment

Have you thought about how you’re going to entertain your pup during the long car ride? Their toy and a handful of treats is only going to keep them busy for so long. Some dogs just adore listening to the radio, or you can download music designed to soothe nervous dogs. If you like classical music, we recommend a spot of Woofgang Mozart or maybe Andrea Poochelli.

14. Sun Shades and an Electric Fan 

Especially important if you’re travelling in summer, take a few clip-on electric fans to keep your dogs cool and comfortable. And pop a few window shades on the back windows to protect your pups from direct sunlight. Then everybody, furry or human, is happy!

15. Bags of Patience

Especially if this is your pooch’s first holiday, there’ll be tons of extra energy from all the excitement, or maybe some nervous behaviours. Let your dog take the time to sniff the interesting new smells and take in their unusual, new surroundings.

Dog Friendly Holiday Accommodation

If you’re looking for a holiday cottage that puts your dog’s needs first, look no further. Pack Holidays offer a wide range of stunning dog friendly holiday cottages with no extra doggy fees and heaps of information on local dog friendly restaurants, beaches, activities and more. 

Whatever the size of your pack, you’ll be warmly welcomed with thoughtful touches for the dogs, such as doggy treats, bedding, crates, towels and throws for furniture (as dogs are allowed everywhere in the cottages). Their beautiful cottages specifically cater for dogs but human visitors will also receive a welcome pack on arrival to ensure you have the paw-fect dog friendly holiday.

Author : John Ad Views : 30

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