Whether it’s a long weekend up the coast, a few weeks away or an international trip when you take your dog on holiday with you there are some essential items that need to be packed with it.

What you need to help keep your pooch happy when you take your dog on holiday

Stay secure and carry on.

If you are flying with your pet make sure well ahead of your arrival at the airport that your crate fits all the necessary guidelines of the airline you are flying. Even if you aren’t flying it might be handy to have a travel or carry bag for them with you on your holiday just in case.

Click, clack, front & back for protection.

Safety first when traveling in the car goes for your pooch also, whether they are secured in the back of your car or sitting up front with you make sure they are fully secure using a seatbelt attachment. You can get specialised car sets for smaller dogs that will keep them in place but also keep them comfortable. If your pooch is too big for a car seat you should make sure to protect your seats from dog hair and dirt with a waterproof cover.

Eat, drink and don’t leave a mess.

Just like you, your pooch will want a drink and maybe some food on your travels so make sure you have some readily available for them. You can get spill-proof bowls if you want to avoid water spillage on the go, or you can grab a couple of collapsible travel bowls for food and water.

Be prepared for anything.

Dogs are inquisitive by nature and they love to explore especially new surroundings so it’s best to be prepared for anything with a dog first aid kit or similar supplies. You may also be required to show your dogs vaccination details upon check-in at the airport or at your accommodation. Make sure to also take all medication you may need with you as well as the prescriptions just in case.

Walk this way.

You will want to get out and about with your pooch whilst your away so make sure to have their collar, lead and a harness. You may also want to take some specialised equipment like a doggie life jacket or some boots depending on where you are going.

Sleep well young prince or princess.

Make sure you take a bed or even just a blanket for your pooch to sleep on with you to help them feel more comfortable in the new surrounds and quell any anxiety.

Don’t forget dinner & dessert.

You will be having fun dining out & trying the local cuisine but don’t forget about your pooch. They can’t enjoy local cuisine like you so it may be smart to take some of their food with you so they don’t have any stomach upsets from new food whilst your holidaying. Oh and don’t forget some treats!

Playtime is sacred.

Even the most pet-friendly accommodation probably won’t supply your puppy with toys to play with and to avoid any destructive behavior it would be best to take some toys with you to keep them occupied.

Like you just walked out of a salon.

Depending on the length of the trip and your plans whilst you’re away your dog may need a bath at some stage so it’s useful to have shampoo, conditioner, brushes and even a towel with you.

Toilet time.

Now your pooch may be completely toilet trained when it’s at home but accidents do happen. It would be smart to take some pee pads with you just in case they forget to tell you they need to go, or you need to leave them inside when you go out. Plus don’t forget the poop bags.

If you can’t take your pooch with you on your travels or maybe you just want some time with your partner, friends or family without them then book a pet sitter on platforms like Mad Paws or PetCloud or find a local pet sitter in your area to have peace of mind.