Going on vacation with your pet: 5 tips to avoid hassle

IN SHORT

Prepare the necessary documents to travel with your pet
Check the regulations in force in your place of destination
Plan breaks regular during car journeys
Choose one accommodation which accepts animals
Bring enough food and water for your pet

Going on vacation with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but it requires good preparation. Do you know these five practical tips to avoid hassles and fully enjoy your trip in the company of your faithful four-legged friend?

Plan and book suitable venues #

For some vacation successful with your pet, it is crucial to choose your destination and your accommodation. Many hotels, campgrounds and vacation rentals have specific pet policies. Read the conditions carefully and choose accommodation suitable for your faithful companion. Platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb offer filters to find pet-friendly accommodation.

Additionally, select suitable activities. Favor them hikes, THE beaches or even the parks allowed for animals. Pay attention to prohibited areas where it is necessary to respect local rules such as the use of a leash and the collection of droppings.

Go to the vet #

A visit to the veterinarian before leaving ensures that your pet is in good health and up to date with its vaccinations, especially if you are going abroad. For the international travel, a pet passport, issued by a veterinarian, is often necessary. This document certifies that your companion is in good health and vaccinated against diseases such as rabies.

Take advantage of this visit to ask for specific advice related to your destination and to obtain a copy of their medical records in case of emergency.

Take out pet health insurance #

Veterinary costs can quickly add up in the event of injury or illness, especially abroad. A pet health insurance can cover part or all of these costs, including consultations, medications and surgical procedures. This type of coverage is reassuring and allows you to concentrate on the health of your companion without worrying about costs.

Additionally, some insurance plans include coverage for the loss or theft of the animal, search costs, rewards, and even travel expenses to retrieve it.

Prepare for the trip itself #

Traveling with an animal requires careful preparation, whether by car, train, plane or boat.

By car : Make sure your pet is comfortably seated and safe, for example in a carrier or with a harness.
By train : Check railway company policies. Most accept small animals in a carrier.
By plane : Airlines have strict rules regarding the transport of animals. Find out your company’s requirements and book in advance.
On a boat : Some cruise or ferry lines have special areas for pets, while others require them to stay in carriers.

Ensure their safety and well-being on site #

Once you arrive at your destination, check that the environment is safe for your pet. Avoid potential hazards such as poisonous plants or dangerous objects. Maintain a routine similar to that at home to reassure him.

Bring his usual food to avoid digestive problems, as well as his bed or blanket and his favorite toys to comfort him in his new space. Find out in advance about the veterinary services available nearby and the animal health system at your vacation spot.