Pet expert reveals 10 top tips for travelling with dogs – from making sure to pack extra treats to maintaining a mutt-friendly routine

• Travelling with a pooch is stressful for some, particularly if you are a new owner
• It can be hard to know how to find dog-friendly accommodation
• John Smith, pet expert and founder of Yappy.com, offered his tips to FEMAIL  

Taking your dog away with you is not always something people are confident doing during the summer holidays. 

It can be stressful finding pooch-friendly accommodation and making sure your pet is happy.

But it is not impossible, and people do manage to get away for a trip with a dog in tow, particularly to some UK beauty spots. 

If you are still completely stuck on what to do then read on, as these tips shared to FEMAIL by John Smith, Pet Expert and Founder of Yappy.com might make your life a little bit easier…

There are certain tips and tricks you can use to ease the stress on your pooch while travelling, making sure your pet stays happy

FIRST AID 

John said: ‘Whether you’re staying at a hotel, apartment or even camping, having a first aid kit is a priority. 

‘Even some dog-friendly accommodation might not provide all of the items you need to keep your dog healthy, so you should be bringing these with you. 

‘Create a list including tick removers, sting relief, wound dressing, alcohol pads, safety pins, tongue depressors and more.’

TRAVEL SICKNESS 

‘Always look up your nearest vet incase of sickness and emergencies,’ the expert said.

John added: ‘Also consider taking dog friendly travel sickness tablets – you never know how your pooch is going to react to the different types of transport you take them on and just like humans, they might not feel too great whilst on that journey!’

The expert said: ‘On certain ferry routes, dogs must be left inside vehicles for the duration of the trip. If this is the case, leave your car window open for ventilation.’

‘Have some soothing music playing to keep your dog calm and make sure they have some toys to keep them occupied too!

‘It can be a bit of a lonely journey so plan ahead for these trips,’ John added.

LET’S GO TO THE BEACH 

John said: ‘Visiting the beach is a must-do activity for most people on holiday and dogs love it too! 

‘Try to stay cautious when allowing your dog to swim as it’s possible for them to get stung, drink or eat something that’s bad for their stomach or even endure an injury on rocks or other sharp objects.’

TENT TIME   

‘When looking for your outdoor accommodation, it’s important to consider how your dogs will feel and sleep. 

‘Make sure tents and caravans are well ventilated as they can often be five-10 degrees hotter than the outside temperature. 

‘It’s also a good idea to set up the tent at home to allow your dog to get used to a new environment before embarking on your trip,’ John said. 

TAKING DOGS ON ACTIVITIES  

John said: ‘A long walk or hike with dogs can make for a lovely day out! 

‘However, dogs have a completely different perspective than humans so unfamiliar heights, routes and walks could be dangerous, especially on top of a cliff edge or viewpoint. Keep dogs on a lead and bring plenty of food and water’, he added.

Other ways to keep your dog happy  

1. Buy them treats

2. Play with them

3. Have a dance party

4. Brush their teeth

5. Make treasure hunts 

6. Give her a job

7. Play hide ‘n’ seek

8. Have a spa day

9. Compliment them

10. Make them a dog-friendly ice-lolly 

Source: Bark Post/ Dr Katy Nelson 

KEEP YOUR POOCH IN A ROUTINE 

‘Typically, holidays are a great time to explore new places, try new things and enjoy adventurous activities. 

‘However, while this is fun for the humans, it may not be as good for your dog. 

‘Try to integrate some of your typical routine whilst away; whether that’s similar walk times or the same diet, routine is definitely needed,’ John said.

STAY IN TOUCH 

John said: ‘Before going on holiday make sure to get your dog microchipped – this is really important! 

‘Whilst you’re away also ensure to bring a lead or collar with your dog’s name on it, as well as your holiday address, NOT your home address, and phone contact details where you can be easily reached whilst abroad.

He said: ‘You don’t want to miss that call if your dog is lost and found!’

VACCINATIONS ARE KEY

The expert said: ‘Having up-to-date vaccinations and records for your dogs is absolutely crucial! 

‘Rules vary from country to country so make sure to re-check each country’s rules before visiting as it may be different to somewhere you have visited before.’

DOG-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS 

John said: ‘Dogs will love exploring new places with you, but packing for an extra person can add to the pre-holiday stress. 

‘Make sure to pack extra food, water, toys, and documentation as you never know when you’re going to need it!’ he added

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