Vacation trips are a welcome opportunity for many people to relax and get to know new countries. However, especially for dog owners, the holiday destination choice can be difficult, as different entry regulations may apply depending on the country, and animals are not allowed in every hotel or accommodation.
So that you can enjoy your holiday in a relaxed way, we have put together the most important tips for a holiday with your dog.
NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES ARE BEST SUITED FOR A VACATION WITH A DOG
The shorter the drive to the holiday destination, the less stressful it is for the dog. Therefore, neighboring countries are best suited for a relaxed holiday abroad with your four-legged friend.
In addition to the travel destination choice, there are also a few things to consider when driving. While small dogs like Dachshunds can travel in the passenger area, large dog breeds like Shepherd dogs are better accommodated in a sufficiently large trunk. For a relaxed journey, it can be useful to get your dog used to a transport box. In addition to additional safety, the box can have a calming effect on the dog if you have enough time to get used to it. The actual luggage can be transported on the vehicle roof. When traveling with the dog, it is also important that there is always plenty of water and dry food available in leak-proof containers. It is also advisable to offer the dog regular exercise when driving for several hours.
In addition to sufficient water and food, it is important to ensure that the car does not get too hot for the dog if possible. In summer, the cool morning or evening hours are ideal for driving, as the car does not heat up as much. If the heat cannot be avoided while driving, regular breaks are particularly important. During the breaks, the dog should have the opportunity to cool off in the shade. It is also advisable to check on the animal regularly while driving in the summer heat. The first signs of overheating are restlessness and fatigue.
NOT EVERY ACCOMMODATION IS SUITABLE FOR DOGS
When choosing accommodation in the holiday destination, the first question that arises is whether dogs are allowed at all. Dogs are more welcome in holiday homes, but more and more “dog hotels” specialize in holidaymakers with four-legged friends. Many providers explicitly point out whether dogs are welcome or not. If it is not clear from the description of the hotel or holiday home whether dogs are allowed, it is advisable to contact the landlord. Usually, you pay a small surcharge for your dog’s accommodation per day, as well as a slightly higher final cleaning.
Rabies Vaccination
A vaccination against rabies is compulsory for every dog that is to enter another country.
Pet Chip
Further special regulations apply, for example, to the so-called Echinococcus-free EU states, which include Great Britain, Ireland, Malta, and Finland. The name Echinococcus describes several types of tapeworm that have been exterminated in the countries mentioned. Therefore, worming is mandatory before entering these countries.
HOLIDAYS WITH YOUR DOG – YOU SHOULD STILL PAY ATTENTION TO THAT
For the dog and owner to arrive safely back, it makes sense to consider possible dangers in the respective holiday country and adapt to them.
Avoid Contact With Local Dogs.
In warmer countries, in particular, there is a risk that your dog will be infected with diseases. Stray dogs are more often infected with diseases and parasite infestations and therefore have a high risk of infection.
Avoid The Midday Sun If Possible.
Although dog breeds with thicker fur are generally less prone to sunburn, the same does not apply to areas of the body without fur. Dog noses, for example, are prone to excessive sun exposure and are therefore prone to sunburn.
Protect Your Dog From Parasites.
Depending on the holiday destination, a preparation against ticks, fleas, and other parasites can be useful, as these transmit diseases. In the Mediterranean basin, mosquitoes can transmit heartworms, which are life-threatening for dogs.
Vaccination or appropriate medication are recommended against travel sickness in dogs. It is therefore recommended that you consult your vet before you start your journey.