Here's everything you need to remember before taking your dog on holiday

Make sure to plan ahead so that your dog can enjoy your family holiday as much as you do (Photo: Shutterstock)

Dogs are cherished members of the family and most of us want our canine companions to bepart of the family holiday.

Fortunately, it's now easier than ever to take them with us on holiday, as more and more places understand the need to cater for four-legged travellers.

If you're thinking about treating your dog to a well-deserved break, it’s important to do your homework first - here are the most important things for you to consider when taking your dog on holiday.

Before you go

Consider your dog’s needs

Obviously choosing the right place to stay for you (and other human family members) is important, but you do also need to consider how suitable it is for your dog’s needs.

Don't assume that just because the website says, "we allow dogs" means that it is suitable for your dog. For example, is there a secure garden?

You should always ring ahead before any booking to confirm their pets policy has not changed. Ask any questions that might relate to your dog if they have any specific needs.

Make sure to take your dog for a check up at the vet before heading off on holiday (Photo: Shutterstock)

You'll also need to think about the bigger picture. Before you go, create an itinerary of places to visit and things you'd like to do. Remember, preparation and organisation is the key for any successful trip away.

Arrange a visit to the vet

It's important to book your dog in for a general health check up at least once every year.

Arranging a visit to the vet prior to a trip away is especially important, as your dog may come into contact with other animals that may carry fleas, ticks or worms.

Plan for all emergencies

Whilst none of us like to think of the worst happening, it is so important to prepare for theunexpected.

Make sure you know where all the nearest vets are to your holiday accommodation, and put their contact numbers into your phone. It would also be wise to print off the directions and keep them in the car before you go.

Consider going on a dog first aid course, where you will learn all of the basic emergency first aid skills you need to be able to help your dog until you can get them safely to a vet.

Make a list of essential items

Make a list of everything your dog will need, write it down, then cross it off as you pack it.

Some of the more obvious items you'll need are:

food/water bowl
leash
collar
ID tags
poo bags
bed
favourite toys
shampoo
an old towel

Also think about bringing along any medication your dog is on, or might need in the event of an emergency.

Packing clear photographs of your dog are highly recommended in case they get lost. You'll have a much better chance of finding them if you can show people what they look like.

Brush up on your basic commands

The last thing you want on holiday is to be chasing after a loose pooch, risking an accident or a lost dog.

Your dog should travel in a crate in the boot of your car where possible (Photo: Shutterstock)

Working on your dog’s obedience before you go away will lead to as stress free a holiday as possible. Good recall is probably the most important thing to master with your dog - it could save their life.

Reward them when they follow your commands and soon enough you won't need to fear letting them off the lead in safe open spaces.