Your Dog Holiday Guide: Plane, Car and Hotel Tips

The idea of going on holiday with your pawed friend sounds wonderful, doesn't it? Discovering new places, making memories together... But if not planned properly, this dream can turn into a stressful scramble for both you and your dog. Vomiting in the car, not being accepted in a hotel room, or worst of all, the risk of getting lost in an unfamiliar city...

Don't worry. We've prepared this comprehensive checklist to help you plan your trip with your dog from A to Z. You'll find everything here, from necessary legal documents to safety precautions, airline rules to car travel tips.

Step 1: Pre-Travel "Must-Do" List

Completing these steps at least one month before you set off will prevent last-minute crises.

a) Vet Check and Legal Documents

Whether domestic or international, a vet visit is essential.

• Microchip Check: Ensure your dog has a microchip and that your information (address, phone number) in the PETVET system is up-to-date. This is a legal requirement.
• Vaccination Card (Passport): Always carry your dog's passport, especially proving that its rabies vaccination is complete and current. Most hotels and airlines will want to see this card.
• International Travel Plan (Extra): If you are traveling abroad, additional procedures such as a "Rabies Titre Test" may be required. Start planning this well in advance, as it can take months.
• Sedative/Anti-Nausea: If your dog suffers from motion sickness or travel stress, ask your vet for advice on a safe anti-nausea medication or a mild sedative.

b) Safety: The Most Important Step in an Unfamiliar Place

In our new adoption article, we mentioned the importance of microchips. However, a microchip alone is NEVER enough when traveling.

c) Your Dog's Suitcase: What Should You Bring?

• Their usual food (enough for the duration of the holiday)
• Food and water bowls (foldable travel bowls are great)
• Vaccination card / Passport
• Any ongoing medications
• Their favorite bed or blanket (their scent will comfort them)
• Their favorite toys
• Collar, leash (and definitely a spare leash)
• Poop bags
• Wet wipes and paper towels for cleaning
• If applicable, a carrier (crate)

Step 2: Planning According to Mode of Transport

How you travel with your dog completely changes the rules.

Dog Car Travel Checklist

While the most flexible travel method, safety is paramount:

• Never Let Them Roam Free: Your dog should never be unrestrained in the car. They could be thrown forward in a sudden brake or distract the driver.
• Secure Transport: Always transport them in a carrier (crate), with a special dog seatbelt, or behind a back seat barrier.
• Frequent Stops: Stop every 2-3 hours to allow them to drink water, relieve themselves, and walk a bit.
• Never Leave Them in the Car: Even if the air temperature is 20 degrees Celsius, the interior of a car in the sun can reach 50 degrees Celsius in minutes. NEVER leave your dog alone in the car.
• Windows: While letting them stick their head out the window seems fun, it's very risky due to dust getting in their eyes or a sudden hazard.

Dog Air Travel Checklist

This is the most stressful type of travel and is subject to strict rules.

• Research the Airline: BEFORE booking your ticket, call and confirm the airline's pet policy. Each company has different rules.
• Make a Reservation: You must make a reservation for your dog (whether in the cabin or cargo) as soon as you buy your ticket. Pet capacity on flights is limited.
• Cabin or Cargo? This depends on the airline's policy and your dog's weight (including its carrier).

Step 3: Dog-Friendly Hotels and Accommodation

"Pets allowed" and "pet-friendly" are not the same thing.

• Confirm During Reservation: Call the hotel and get written confirmation (email) stating your dog's breed and weight.
• Ask About Additional Fees: Most hotels charge an extra cleaning fee for pet accommodation.
• Hotel Rules: Find out if your dog can roam freely in the hotel's common areas (restaurant, pool).
• Do Not Leave Them Alone in the Room: Dogs left alone in hotel rooms may bark due to unfamiliar sounds or damage property. Try not to leave your dog alone in the room.

Conclusion: Safe and Enjoyable Memories

Good planning removes all obstacles to going on holiday with your dog. With a complete suitcase, a safe travel plan, and most importantly, both legal (microchip) and instantly accessible (dog tag) safety measures, this holiday will turn into an unforgettable adventure for both of you.

Happy holidays!