Taking Your Pet Abroad

Here are our top tips to make your holiday with your pet as stress-free as possible:

PLAN AHEAD

Pop into your local Pennard Vets surgery to discuss the specific requirements for your pet’s trip.
You can find useful information on the UK Government Pet Travel Scheme Helpline on 0870 241 1710 or visit their website at gov.uk/take-pet-abroad
If your pet is not used to travelling, now is the time to gradually accustom them to car travel by taking them on short journeys.

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Your pet will require a microchip, a rabies vaccination and a pet passport at least 3 weeks prior to travelling to an EU or Listed country. If you are planning to travel further afield, we can advise you on the different rules that apply.
Tick prevention is no longer compulsory for the Pet Travel Scheme but is strongly recommended. Again, we can advise you on the best product for your pet.
Consider travel insurance which covers your pet for emergency overseas veterinary and kennel costs.
If your pet requires medication, it may be wise to take a supply with you in case it is difficult to obtain while abroad.

THE JOURNEY

Plan your journey so that your dog gets lots of breaks to go to the toilet and exercise.
Make sure your pet is secure in your car using a harness, seat belt restraint or pet carrier.
They should have access to water at all time.
Under no circumstances should you leave your pet alone in the car, especially if it is hot.
Make sure their container is well ventilated.
Don’t feed your pet too soon before or after a journey (two hours is a good amount of time).

ONCE YOU ARRIVE

Feed them their normal food while on holiday, and offer bottled drinking water, to avoid any tummy upsets.
A change of scene can be stressful for your pet. Try to stick to their normal routine as much as possible, and bring some of their toys and bedding so that they have something comforting that smells like home.
Find a local vet, for any emergencies and treatment required before returning to the UK.
Be aware of local hazards such as poisonous snakes, biting insects and toxic plants.
Remember all of the hot weather tips we have posted and watch out for heat stroke.
Make sure your dog wears an identification collar and tag with your current contact details, including your address while on holiday.

COMING HOME

Before returning to the UK, your dog must have a tapeworm treatment administered by a vet between 24 – 120 hours before the return journey. The vet must sign the passport to certify this has been done.
If you are taking your dog on a day trip, the tapeworm treatment has to be administered before you leave the UK in order to comply with the 24 – 120 hour rule.

PACKING CHECKLIST

If you have any questions about your pet’s trip abroad, please do not hesitate to contact your local Pennard Vets surgery.

Happy Holidays!

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