Eight things to consider before travelling with pets

Pet owners considering travelling abroad are being given expert tips to consider before taking their furry companions.

The holiday car rental experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have put together some key considerations for owners to think about before taking pets on a trip.

Travelling can be unsettling for many animals and there are many things to think about before setting off. Whether travelling by car, air, rail or sea, it’s vital to check whether pets can be accommodated — where they can be kept is another fundamental thing to think about.

“There are many animals that can find travelling stressful, but there are things to think about to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible,” a spokesperson for StressFreeCarRental.com said. “The stress on families isn’t something that is always considered. If you haven’t done your research, and are not fully aware of the implications of travelling with pets it can be a nightmare.

“We’ve researched and compiled a list of the eight most important things you need to think about before travelling with animals.”

Suitability of the breed: If you are thinking of flying, you may need to consider whether the animal you have will be OK being transported on a plane. Dog breeds like Lhasa Apsos, Pugs and Bull Terriers are not suitable to fly, particularly those with snubbed-noses as this makes them sensitive to air changes. The same goes for snubbed-nosed cats, including Himalayan and Persian Cats. The best option for these breeds is to consider travelling an alternative way, such as the Eurostar or ferry.

Animal documentation: When travelling abroad, not only do you have to think about your own passports and visas, but your pet will also need one of their own. Getting your pet passport and animal health certificate are essential things you need before you travel.

Vaccinations: Just like with humans, your pet will need to be up-to-date with all their essential vaccinations before travelling. Making sure they have their booster jabs if they need them, and rabies vaccinations are essential. Do make sure you check with the country you’re travelling to, to check what their policies are, because each one will be different.

Comfortable carriers: One of the most important parts of the travelling process is making sure your pet is comfortable, which will make the transition as relaxing for them as possible. This means getting a comfortable carrier that is big enough or making sure the area they’re travelling in is suitable for a long journey.

Cost: One of the big things to consider before you plan to travel is the cost. As well as vet fees, there are other fees that will need to be taken into account when travelling with a pet. For example, if arrangements need to be made for someone to pick them up or the extra costs for flights and ferries. Transporting pets can be an expensive process.

Age of your pet: This is a big factor when it comes to travelling. Some older animals may find the experience stressful, whereas others may not be able to adjust to the climate of a new location. So always keep the best interests of your pet in mind.

Some animals may get lost: Some animals may become disorientated by their surroundings and may lose their bearings in an unfamiliar environment. Making sure they have a collar, are microchipped in case they go missing, or having a tracking device fitted so you can keep tabs on their whereabouts is a good idea.

Pet travel insurance: Just like humans, pets do also need travel insurance. This makes sure that the worst is covered, like if your pet gets lost, or an injury occurs.

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