Holidays – the best time of the year! Of course, you want to spend this beautiful time with your faithful four-legged friend. What could be more fun than travelling together? Here are some tips to ensure you have the best time together! 🤩

Picking the right destination

The most important question: where are we going? 🤔 When travelling with your dog, it’s essential to consider your dog’s needs when picking a destination. Ask yourself beforehand what you want to do with your dog.

The climate at your destination also plays an important role. Because dogs do not regulate their body temperature the same way we do, they are more affected by heat. 🥵 Especially dogs with long or dark coats might suffer. A relaxing holiday might quickly become strenuous for your pooch.

Consider the distance to reach your desired holiday destination. Some dogs like to sit in the car or train. If they’re not used to it, you better practice shorter distances beforehand. Another transport option is taking the plane. Dogs up to 8kg are usually allowed in the cabin with you if they are in a transport bag. Heavier dogs have to go in the cargo hold. This is a traumatic experience for most dogs, so we prefer road trips. 🚘

Choosing your accommodation

Once you’ve found a travel destination that appeals to you and your dog, you can look for suitable accommodation. Several dog-friendly hotels allow dogs in the room, and AirBnB also gives you a wide choice.

When choosing your accommodation, also consider the location. Is there a nearby park, forest or beach where your dog can run around? Look for dedicated dog areas. 🐕 Maybe there is a dog park or off-lead area?

Your dog’s mental health

Do you have a social, happy dog who is used to a busy city? Great! Then you can probably go everywhere with her. However, most dogs need moments of rest to unwind and process all the new impressions.

Your dog probably spends most of her life in the same familiar environment. Her days look much less hectic than yours, with fewer people. Such a holiday can be pretty intense. If you have an anxious or stress-sensitive dog, prefer to do a quiet holiday in nature. 🌲

Don’t get frustrated if it becomes too much for your dog, but give her time to adjust. Be a patient dog parent, offer support when she’s feeling scared or insecure, and let her sniff around and have fun. That way, it will be an unforgettable time for both of you!

What to put into your dog’s suitcase

Which things should definitely be in your four-legged friend’s luggage?

• Important documents, such as the pet passport with vaccination status and your dog’s insurance documents
• Medication and supplements
• Tick and insect repellent + tick nippers
• Towel
• Vaseline or paw balm to protect paws in case of a lot of walking or snow/heat
• Cooling vest if you go to a warm destination (we use and love these)
• Food and drinking bowls
• Portable water bottle for on the road and during walks
• Food and snacks
• Leashes, collars, tags
• GPS trackers and chargers (these are lifesavers!! & you get 30% off)
• Poopie bags
• Favourite toys
• Blankets, transport box if necessary (our fav pet & human travel blankets – with 20% off)
• Brush
• Some countries require a muzzle (e.g. in Italy only on public transport, in Spain certain breeds and dogs over a certain weight)

Look up in advance where a local vet 👩🏻‍⚕️ is located. Also, look up what vaccinations your dog needs in your destination country. E.g. for the UK, you need to administer treatment for heartworm within 48h before departure. Otherwise, your dog will be quarantined.

Check the list of banned breeds. In some countries you’re not allowed to enter with certain dogs. In Spain, for example, you must have a certificate of competence for a Staffordshire, and they must wear a muzzle at all times.

The journey begins

The time has finally come: all preparations are done, holiday plans have been made, and suitcases have been packed. You’re all set! So what’s next?

Create a comfortable environment for your four-legged friend. For example, you can put several blankets and her favourite stuffed animal in the car.

Choose a route with the least traffic jams possible and plan plenty of breaks for your dog. To make sure your furbaby can relax, the car shouldn’t be too crowded.

Turn your music down a bit; classical music 🎼 has been proven to calm dogs.

Provide plenty of fresh air and protection from the sun. There are special sun protection creams for pets.

Remember to bring your camera 📸 to capture these unforgettable moments with your best friend!

Have fun!!! 🥰

Share your best dog-friendly travel tip with us in the comments!

P.S.: Next week, we’ll talk about travelling with your dog in an RV! 🚐