Motion sickness and stress are not limited to humans. Therefore, we recommend that you go for a test drive before you embark on the first day of your holiday to see how your animal reacts on a longer drive. Antiemetic (anti vomiting) products and calming sprays and collars can certainly help. Exceptions apply to cats however; they generally tend to feel happier staying at home (with frequent care provided by neighbours or friends, of course) or going to pet care accommodation.
taking your pet on holidays | preparation
Preparation and travel
If you take your pet with you in the car during the summer, make sure you provide them with sufficient cooling. Stop often enough, give your animal its own cool spot in the shade and provide plenty of water.
taking your pet on holidays | regulations
Regulations
- Have a European Animal passport (passports issued before the introduction of the EU passport in 2014 remain current)
- Dogs, cats and ferrets must be chipped
- Vaccination against rabies must be done at least 21 days before travelling
taking your pet on holidays | disease prevention
Disease prevention
The common standard vaccinations do not always adequately protect your animal while away on a holiday. Make sure that you provide effective protection against fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and sandflies to prevent diseases such as Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Leishmania and Heartworm.
taking your pet on holidays | pet accommodation
Staying at home or in pet accommodation
If your dog or cat is to be cared for by relatives or friends, make clear arrangements about what to do in case of an emergency.
Keep in mind that pet accommodation facilities are sometimes fully booked in advance during the summer months. If your pet is easily stressed, it is a good idea to try a one day/night stay in the accommodation location first.
Pet accommodation facilities will require your animal’s vaccination status and evidence of recent worming and protection against fleas and ticks. Often, they will also require records of nasal inoculation against kennel cough. Do not wait too long to do this because vaccinations need time to build up disease resistance.
taking your pet on holidays | practical information
Practical information
If in doubt, please contact us. We will be happy to assist you in deciding if and which preventative treatments - if any - are needed.