A camping and caravanning holiday well planned is an enjoyable experience for people and dogs, follow these tips to get the most out of your break.
Stock Up
The week before you go away, make sure you have enough food, some treats and, if your pet requires, medication to last the trip. It's also a good idea to put aside bowls, bedding - and don't forget toys - that you will need, so that you don't have to rush around finding a pet store especially if you are not holidaying near a larger town.
Take some things that your dog will recognise - a move to a smaller home in a caravan may seem strange, so having his own bedding will provide a reassuring familiarity.
Pack a first aid kit including gauze, bandages, surgical tape, tweekers, a large syringe, petroleum jelly, towel, gloves, cotton wool and antiseptic. Also note down the number of your regular vet, and a vet near to your holiday location in case of emergency.
Check any Vaccination Dates
The weeks preceding your holiday are the time to ensure that any vaccinations and due check-ups are all up to date. Taking a copy of veterinary records is useful in case of an emergency.
Check any due dates for flea & worming treatments too and apply as necessary.
Ensure Microchip Details are Up To Date
Before you go away, check that your pets microchip details and ID tag details are up to date with your address and current phone number. A family pet going missing especially in a strange area isn't a nice event to plan for - but if it does happen, microchip details are by far the most efficient way of recovering your lost companion.
For dogs, this is now UK law
Plan Your Holiday
Many attractions are dog-friendly. Many also aren't - so it's wise to research before booking your caravan park stay, to ensure that you don't have a frustrating time. Make a list of the possible attractions you plan to visit and contact them in advance to find out their policies regarding animals
Don't Leave Your Pet Alone Without Ventilation
The interior of a caravan or motorhome can heat up quickly, even on a milder summer day. Without adequate water and ventilation, heat stroke can occur quickly
NEVER - EVER leave your pet unattended in the car.
If you DO find that you can't take your pet in as planned - NEVER leave pets unattended in a car, even with a window partially open. Without air flow, even a relatively shaded area can become unbearably hot for an animal, leading to heat stroke.
Travelling
Just like people, dogs can get car-sick. Plan your route to includestops for fresh air and a brief walk - it's beneficial for the driver and passengers too. Don't forget to put down a water bowl at your stops as dogs can dehydrate much faster than people on long journeys
Check the Condition of all Leads, Harnesses and Collars
Make sure that all buckles, fastenings and the fabric of leads and collars are in good condition. If your dog isn't used to the countryside he may forget his manners in the excitement of all the new smells, sights and sounds and pull, eager to see what those funny looking wooly creatures are in that lush field!
Familiarise Yourself with the Country Code
Be especially aware of the section of The Countryside Code referring to dogs and follow the rules carefully.
Keep your dog on a lead where necessary; where your dog is off-lead ensure that you have full recall. If you are not sure your dog will return on command regardless of other distractions, consider a suitable extending lead.
Look out for any notices restricting dogs, especially around farmland and bird nesting areas, and ensure that however well-mannered, that your dog is kept on a short lead on access land around farm animals and on any access land from 1st March through to 31st July
