Handy Tips

TIPS FOR THE JOURNEY

by the Paws4Travel Team

Firstly talk to your veterinary surgeon he will probably know more about your animal than anyone other than yourself and he can give advice on all aspects of pet's health. He will be able to guide you through the micro chipping, injections, blood tests etc. and believe us it isn't that complicated, honest!

Secondly keep in touch with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food - they are the only people who know the up to date information on a day to day basis.

Thirdly we would like to think you will keep visiting the Paws4Travel site as we create and update it. Here are some things to be going on with

INSURANCE.
Rapidinsure have just launched their new comprehensive Pet Travel insurance - underwritten by Kiln at Lloyds. Log on to their website for further information.

COLLARS/LEADS. Please ensure your pet has it's collar on throughout the journey and that you keep a lead handy at all times when exercising en route and possibly at your destination. Depending on your pets normal behaviour it might be worth thinking of keeping the collar on throughout the holiday so do ensure it is a good fit and comfortable.

IDENTITY DISCS. All our dogs now have UK and Overseas id discs, the overseas ones having information on our mobile phones, micro chip numbers etc. - this might be worth bearing in mind - our Paws4Travel Club will be releasing information on our unique identity discs available for club members shortly.

JOURNEY PLANNING. For a trouble free holiday, for humans as well as pets, advance planning is essential. Why not think about overnighting in either one of the UK or Overseas ports on your outward and return journeys. Your pets aren't the only ones to get tired.

BOOKING YOUR CHANNEL CROSSING. Always advise the carrier that you have animals on board, at the moment not every service can carry pets. There will normally be a charge for your pet to travel and at the moment they must remain in your car throughout the journey so as Gareth Cross mentioned earlier ensure they are well exercised before you check in and that you stop as soon as possible on the other side for a convenience break.

FOOD AND WATER. Our pets are fed on dried food so we are able to take all their requirements with us, including treats and biscuits etc - but don't forget a good supply of water. You might find that when you make your first convenience stop abroad your animal is more concerned with sniffing around than relieving himself or having a drink of water so it is important you give him time and not be too impatient to resume your journey too quickly. We will be releasing more information on pet travel products shortly.

BEDDING. There are many types of bedding available these days - again our Pets4Travel Club will be highlighting the different types shortly - but do try and make sure your pet is familiar with it prior to travelling so he associates the smell of the bed with his home in the UK. On arrival at your destination (or even whilst overnighting en route) put your pets bedding (make sure it has the scent of home on it) in an appropriate area so he knows where he will be sleeping - it will re assure him. After all if you arrived somewhere and did not know where your bed was you would feel ill at ease.

DOG GUARDS OR TRAVEL CRATES. We have dog guards fitted in our vehicles - the thought of around 40 kilos (85lbs) of dog hurtling across the back seats in the event we have to break heavily is a daunting thought - so please think about this. If you invest in the right crate - your dog will associate this with his bed area at home, providing you introduce him to it correctly and this can be used as his 'away from home' bed.

CARS. Is your car big enough for your pet to travel comfortably for a long journey - only you can answer this one. Do remember to always allow adequate ventilation to the car whilst your pet is inside. Please remember how strong the sun is - not only overseas but in this country as well - do not leave your pet on his own in the car for anything longer than a few minutes. You might also like to think of fitting sun blinds to appropriate windows similar to those you can purchase for young children.

MANNERS. At your destination try and find out what the 'local rules' are re dog behaviour ie can you take them onto the beach etc.

POOP SCOOP. Estimate how many poop scoop bags you think you will need and double it! And remember to dispose of them properly.