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.
#3 Restrain your pet in the car for their safety and yours
We religiously put on our seatbelt when we get into the car but what about your pet? A seat belt or harness can save your pet’s life in the case of an accident. If your pet is travelling in a crate or bag, try to secure the container using a seat belt or anchor point. Having your pet strapped in also protects other occupants in the car if you stop suddenly.
Restrained pets in cars are also less likely to distract the driver or jump out of the window. Police can fine drivers for not restraining pets in vehicles, and the RSPCA can issue fines to negligent owners if their pet is injured.
Deciding where your pet will sit in the car depends on how many passengers you have. If you’re a couple, then your pet can enjoy the car’s back seat to itself; but if you have two or three kids, the back seat isn’t an option. If you have a wagon or 4WD, your pet can travel in the back of the car. A cargo barrier is best in case of an accident.
It’s also important to ensure your pet isn’t sitting in direct sunlight on a hot summer’s day, particularly if the car’s air conditioning isn’t reaching the back. You may need to cover a side window to block some of the sun and give your pet adequate shade. Have a non-spill water bowl container for your pet to use while travelling and remember to stop every couple of hours to let your pet to go to the toilet and stretch their legs.
Never leave your pet unaccompanied in a car, even if you have parked in a shady spot on a cool day. Heat exhaustion is always a possibility, and someone always needs to stay with your pet.
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.
