Taking your pet on holiday with you can be easy if you do a little research before you go. Plus, when you put plans in place for getting there and accommodating your pet accordingly, you’re all set for a holiday that everyone will enjoy.
Your dog is a member of your family, so it’s natural to want to take them on holiday with you too. A road trip to one of our holiday parks can be the perfect retreat for you and your furry best mate. Plus, taking your pet with you means you can avoid the cost of a boarding kennels, not to mention any separation anxiety they might suffer. Just think of the wonderful time your pet will have checking out all the new sights and smells!
Remember – taking a pet on holiday can impact every part of your trip, including:
- how you travel
- when you travel
- where you stay
- what you do on the holiday
If you’re planning your first holiday with your pet in tow, follow our 12 top tips so you can all enjoy the holiday and return home relaxed and ready to prepare your next location.
#2 Dogs can suffer travel sickness in the car
It’s not unusual for dogs to suffer motion sickness, especially when they’re young. It takes a year or two for their ear structure to fully develop and to grow out of being prone to motion sickness. An older dog may still suffer if it associates car travel with being sick though, while other dogs may find travelling in the car stressful if they equate the vehicle with visits to the vet.
Signs that your dog is suffering motion sickness include yawning, whining, listlessness, excessive saliva, smacking or licking lips and vomiting.
Facing your dog forward rather than side on or backwards can help to reduce their nausea. You can also get special dog restraints that will help to keep your pooch facing the front.
Open the windows a little to let in plenty of fresh air. If your dog seems stressed about being in the car, give them a few treats, so they associate the vehicle with pleasant experiences instead (just don’t overdo it!). An alternative to treats is to give your dog a toy that you save just for car trips. If none of these options works for your dog, speak to your vet about anti-nausea drugs to reduce motion sickness or sedative drugs.
This tip was provided by our mates at HIF, providers of health insurance AND pet insurance. HIF is offering Family Parks members two special offers on insurance.
