How To Travel With Pets: A Guide for Pet Owners
For many of us, our pets travel by our sides – after all why would we want leave them behind? The excitement of planning and visiting new places is made all the better by having our constant companion along for the journey. If you’re thinking of taking a trip, have a look at our top tips for taking your cat or dog along with you.
Travelling with Pets in the UK: Rules and Tips
In the UK, rule 57 of the Highway Code states;
When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.
Currently the fine can be up to £5,000 if the dog or cat is unrestrained and causes an accident.
If you will be using other means of transport such as train, bus or taxi it is best to check with the provider when booking what their rules are for travelling with pets.
How to Travel with Pets Safely and Comfortably
Consider how long the journey will be and whether your pet will require a comfort break to toilet, eat or drink. Stopping somewhere with lower traffic, if possible, for example a hiking spot or picnic area rather than a busy petrol station car park will make this less stressful for both you and your pet.
When out and about during warmer months consider cooler morning adventures and take it easy in the heat of the afternoon. Follow ‘good trail etiquette’ in new places implementing lead training and recall, pick up your litter, respect other hikers (or beach users etc) and dogs, prepare for the elements, research pet friendly trails and respect your pet’s limits.
Pet Travel Essentials: What to Pack
- Familiar bedding
- Food and water bowls
- Food & treats
- Water
- Toys
- Grooming essentials
- Collar or harness and lead (with ID tag)
- Poo bags
- Travel safety items such as seatbelt or crate
In the winter you may also like to take a supply of towels for wet weather adventures!
Travel with Pets: Picking a destination
The UK has many beautiful holiday destinations and as a nation of pet lovers we enjoy taking them with us when we travel. From the wild and natural landscape of Scotland to the beachy and relaxed vibes of the South West there are many great places in the UK to explore. Here are some of our top suggestions:
Norfolk
From glorious Holkham Beach to friendly local pubs, Norfolk can offer a slightly less busy destination than the well-known beaches of Cornwall and Devon. Check out this list of dog friendly attractions from Visit Norfolk for more things to do in the area: https://www.visitnorthnorfolk.com/see-and-do/dog-friendly-attractions
Highlands and Islands of Scotland
Whether a cosy highland hotel or travelling the remote roads of the North Coast 500 is more your speed, Scotland has a lot to offer. With excellent hiking opportunities, you could bag a few peaks on a trip as well as take in a bit of Nessie spotting!
North Wales
Popular pet friendly attractions in North Wales include Snowdonia National Park, Conwy Morfa Beach and the Ffestiniog Railway. Many popular beaches may have seasonal dog restrictions, so it is always best to check local signage before visiting.
Many pets prefer the advantages that off season bookings bring with cooler weather and fewer visitors, meaning you can take advantages of some great deals on holiday accommodation!
Preparing Your Pet for Travel
Ensure your pet is up to date on routine items like vaccinations or wormers. If your dog is taking any medication, make sure that you have enough to cover your trip and when you return. It is also a good idea to make sure that insurance and microchip information are up to date, and you have the correct ID tag on your pet with a mobile number not just your home phone number.
You could also familiarise yourself with the countryside code for your destination. Rules for permitted access to walking or hiking can vary between England, Scotland and Wales. You may also want to look up the nearest vet to your holiday destination and save their phone number just in case of an emergency.
If you do not often travel with your pet, you could take smaller local journeys ahead of the big trip to ensure they are comfortable and enjoy the ride.
Remember to pack your pet’s favourite ORIJEN diet to make sure they are fuelled for all the adventures coming their way!
