Tips on travelling with your pets

Many of the restrictions which have determined how we’ve been able to live our lives were lifted last weekend.

While lockdown isn’t over yet there are some changes that will bring about a sense of normality, and that may mean getting in the car with your pet to travel further afield as days out and ‘staycations’ are now possible in some parts of the country.

If you’re planning a day trip or holiday in the UK, vet charity PDSA have some top tips on doing this safely with your pet.

As camp-sites, holiday homes, and places where we can enjoy a day out - like national parks - begin to re-open, many of us will be planning days out and holidays in the UK. It’s important to remember to keep our pets safe and happy as we do that, especially if you’ll be spending a long time in the car. We’ve included some of our top tips for doing this for you.”

● Keep your pet restrained and secure in the car, not only will this keep them safe but it’s also is required by the Highway Code. We recommend using car safety harnesses for medium sized and large dogs, and pet carriers for small dogs and cats. The harness fits around the dog’s chest, back and shoulders, and is then attached to one of the rear safety belts.

● Consider travel time. Lengthy journeys can be stressful for many pets, so keep travel as short as possible, and plan in plenty of rest breaks along the way. If your pet are likely to get stressed, consider staying closer to home.

● Check the temperature in the back of the car. Although most cars have great air conditioning for the front seats, the back seat or boot can heat up very quickly and can become dangerously warm for your pet, especially if they are in a carrier.

● Make sure you put your dog on the lead before you open the car doors and get them in and out of the car on the pavement side, away from the road. To prevent eye injuries and accidents, don’t let your dog put its head out of the window.

● Carry plenty of drinking water and a bowl, even on short journeys and stop frequently so they can go to the toilet and stretch their legs in the fresh air.

● If your pet suffers from travel sickness, try not to feed them just before you leave. Offer them a small meal several hours before the journey, then they can eat properly once you

arrive.

● Try to avoid the heat. Consider travelling in early morning or evening to avoid the heat of the day and try to avoid traffic - it can get very hot in your car if you’re stuck in a traffic jam in the sunshine.

● To get your dog accustomed to the inside of your car it’s useful to do ‘travel training’ especially as they may not have travelled as much during lockdown. Let your dog explore the car’s interior in a safe environment without turning on the engine. Reward your dog with praise or a small treat so that the car is associated with positive experiences. Get your dog used to wearing the car harness and having the car engine on, and when your dog feels comfortable, take them on a short journey then gradually lengthen these journeys.

In addition to preparing your dog for car journeys, if you’re planning a staycation with your pet, it’s important to prepare for this as much as possible. For example, think about all the supplies your pet might need while you’re away, making sure they have any food, medications or toys they need whether they’re staying at home or joining you on your adventure? We have lots of tips and advice on this

on our website about prepar- ing for a staycation.”

In times of uncertainty and hardship pets will still fall ill or be injured and need emergency, life-saving care. PDSA needs the public’s support more than ever before. To donate, visit their website: www. pdsa.org.uk/appeal.

Anna Ewers Clark

PDSA Vet