5 tips for holidaying with your dog

Before you do anything else, make sure that your holiday accommodation is dog friendly! Dogs are active and you will need lots of activities to keep them entertained. Check out restaurants, pubs, parks, walks, markets, and beaches.

Packing for your pet

It's a good idea to pack their usual food and take enough for the whole trip, or make sure you'll be able to buy it at your destination. You'll also need their collar, harness and a bed or travel crate for them to sleep in wherever you are staying. Take any favourite toys or blankets, a pooper scooper, plastic bags for clean-ups and if you have room, pack their water bowl.

Travelling by car

If your pooch travels in the car a lot, there should be no problem. If not, it's important to have a few practice trips before the real thing.  

Pack some treats within easy reach and have plenty of water (and a bowl) with you to keep them hydrated. Dogs can also get car sick, just like us, so avoid overfeeding them before a long trip!  

Use restraints and carriers

So you can keep your dog secure in the car, don't forget a vehicle restraint or crate, preferrably not in the passenger seat. Some dogs may need to be crate trained before the journey, which will help to make them feel safe on travelling day. 

Although it looks cute, your dog having its head or paws sticking out of the window is a no-no! They must be inside the car, to avoid putting them and other drivers, at risk.  

Take a break

Take plenty of toilet/exercise breaks (at least every two hours) and keep your dog on the lead to avoid them becoming a bit too excited. Most importantly, never leave your dog alone in the car - even on a mild day, as dogs can suffer from heat stress which can quickly lead to organ failure. And don't forget to protect their paws in hot weather.

Make sure they don't get lost

Ensure your dog is microchipped and all your details are up to date. The last thing you want is for your furry friend to get lost while you are away. Also make sure they have an ID tag with your details attached to their collar.  

And finally, enjoy your trip and take a load of photos to remember the good times.  

Source: rspca.org.au