Now we are in holiday season once again, many families will be devising their plans for their annual summer getaway.
In the face of economic uncertainty, many people are cutting back on luxuries. But when it comes to a summer holiday, most of us are still finding the finances from somewhere.
Wherever you choose to ‘holiday’ this summer, if you own a pet the whole thing can get a little more complicated.
Many families like to take their pet on holiday with them these days. After all, a pet is another member of the family, so why shouldn’t they enjoy the annual holiday too?
If you are planning to take your pet on holiday with you this year, there are a number of things to bear in mind. So, what do you need to remember about taking your pet abroad?
Consult your vet
Before you take your pet abroad, it’s important to consider whether it is the right thing to do. Your pet might be susceptible to diseases not seen in this country, and treatment can take a long time once you’re home.
So before you plan a trip abroad with your pet, visit your vet to talk over some of the issues that arise with foreign travel.
Get a pet passport
By applying for a pet passport, it’s now possible to take your pet abroad without having to go through long quarantine periods on your return, which can be traumatic for an animal.
To be eligible for a passport, your pet must be fitted with a microchip and be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before you travel. Provided the requirements are met, a vet will be able to issue your pet with a passport.
Prepare for the journey
Travel can be very traumatic for an animal, so it’s important to make sure they are as prepared and comfortable as possible before you leave. Make sure the container they will be travelling in is big enough for your pet to move around in, and give them time to get used to it before you leave.
If you are a pet owner, it may be a good idea to invest in pet insurance too.
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