Petcations: All You Need to Know About Taking Your Dog on Holiday

A large proportion of households and families in the UK share their lives with a beloved pet, and for many of us, that pet is a dog.

Pets share all aspects of our lives, and going on a holiday is exciting, but it is made even better when you get to bring your four-legged friend/s along with you too.

Taking your dog on holiday with you is a great idea for so many reasons. Not only do you get to spend time with this important member of the family, but you also don’t have the hassle of booking them into a kennel – just think of those sad eyes when you have to turn around and walk away.

Dogs have lots of energy and are lots of fun, and they are most certainly welcome at many holiday parks. UK Holiday Parks tend to be found in ideal locations close to fantastic beaches, beautiful countryside and miles of riverside walks, and Tingdene Holiday Parks are no exception.

Along with remembering what to pack, the directions to get to your destination and organising all members of the family, taking your dog on holiday means remembering to think about what our pets may need during the journey to and from the destination, and what they may need while you are all there.

This type of preparation makes your holiday with your pet much easier. So, here are some top tips on what to consider when taking your dog on holiday:

Finding the right location when Taking Your Dog on Holiday

Finding the right base for your holiday is top of the list when taking your dog on holiday. It needs to be somewhere you can all relax at the end of the day’s adventures, so self-catering is usually the best option, meaning you’ll have plenty of space and be able to prepare and store food easily.

If you’re considering investing in a holiday home to enjoy with your four-legged friend, then the staff at Tingdene Holiday Parks will be only too happy to advise you on the best spots for walks and dog-friendly places to visit. There’s a real dog community at the parks too, so sharing tips with fellow holiday home owners is a great way to find hidden gems – or should that be bones?

Taking your dog on the journey

Long car journeys can be a challenge for dogs, and like us, they will appreciate regular refreshments, the chance to go to the toilet and to stretch their legs.

It is important to frequently stop throughout the journey to provide your pet with the opportunity to do just that. Ensure you have water and a bowl with you so you can offer them a drink, and try not to feed them too much, before or during the journey, to prevent any car sickness they may experience.

Like us, dogs must be transported safely and securely within the vehicle. Either use a crash-tested crate or a dog harness, both of which are available at a pet store.

What to pack

Taking your dog on holiday is not unlike taking a child. Just like bringing the little one’s favourite teddy and toys to keep them amused, it’s important to bring your dog’s favourite things:

• their bed
• blankets
• chew-toys
• treats
• food
• water bowls
• waste bags
• leads
• towels.

Having the same home comforts will help your dog to feel secure while they’re away from home. Try not to leave your pet alone in the accommodation for long periods of time, as the unusualness of the place and the absence of owners will cause a considerable amount of distress.

It’s also worth considering any extra bits that would make things easier when you’re out and about, such as a collapsible water bowl to use during those long walks or days on the beach.

It goes without saying that lots of poo bags are essential, as is a good lead – many places welcome dogs on the condition that they are kept under control on a lead and that you clean up after them.

And don’t forget a towel to wash those muddy paws.

Keeping your dog safe & healthy

Make sure your dog is up to date with their vaccinations, flea and worm treatments. If they are on any medication, make sure you have enough supplies while you’re away.

Fingers crossed they won’t, but if your dog becomes unwell while you’re away, it’s handy to know where the nearest vets are located and whether any of them offer an out-of-hours service. Don’t forget the details of your pet insurance too.

All dogs legally have to be fitted with a microchip by the time they’re eight weeks old, or you can be fined up to £500. It’s a good idea to take the details with you, in case Fido decides to sneak off to explore on his own.

Getting out and about

Long absences away from your pet can be avoided by researching which attractions, activities, and restaurants are dog-friendly. There are a plethora of options so that you won’t be missing out on any fun and excitement during your holiday, and you will get to experience them with your pet too!

Here are 5 Dog-Friendly Days Out in Lincolnshire to help you get your planning started. 

What attractions and activities will you visit and take part in during your holiday? We would love to hear your suggestions and favourite places via our social media channels!  If you fall in love with either Suffolk, Norfolk or Lincolnshire and are keen to return year after year, we have a range of holiday homes for sale that are perfect for your family and your pets.