In light of another key date on the lockdown roadmap, we can now stay overnight in self-contained accommodation.
Coinciding with National Pet month, Natusan has teamed up with TV Personality and Resident Vet Dr Scott Miller to share top tips on how to safely travel in the UK with your furry-friends.
Britain is blessed with beautiful beaches and copious amounts of campsites located all across the country, which work as safe alternatives for flight-free summer holiday.
To help pet owners, Dr Scott Miller, Resident Vet for sustainable cat litter brand, Natusan shares his top tips around how to travel with your pet in the UK safely and comfortably this summer:
Plan ahead and check up on local vets
It’s always advisable to make a reservation in advance – especially amid the current COVID-19 climate. And you can either be inspired by our pet-friendly staycations here – or use a pet-friendly travel site to find somewhere suitable to book. When you do settle on a staycation – be sure to look in advance at local vets in the area too – just to be prepared, and for peace of mind.
Make sure to pack your puppy pads and cat litter
We may not admit it, but at the end of the day, everyone prefers their home toilet, and the same is true for your cat. Being sure to bring the litter which your feline friend is accustomed to is a great way to make them feel at home- without having to contend with too many new smells.
If you are travelling with a pup, make sure to bring some puppy pads along with you. As this will help limit stains/damage to the property where you’re staying.
Make sure to microchip & sort vaccinations in advance
Before you set off on your your staycation, make sure your cat and canine’s microchip details are all up to date. We all know our curious cats like to roam and how much our adventurous dogs like to sniff in the great outdoors – so it’s a good idea to get organised ahead of time.
Also, make sure their vaccinations are sorted and up to date as an additional precaution.
Get your companions car comfortable
If you are planning to drive to your destination, work to get your pet comfortable with the car ahead of your trip. Look to start bringing them along for a ride in their carrier a couple of times a month, as this will get them used to the motion of travelling in the car. Afterall, we don’t want any car sick pets, or for them to feel any discomfort. And, if you do have concerns, then speak to your vet – as there are many options they can reach for when it comes to calming a travel anxious pet.
I would always recommend using a cat carrier when travelling in the car, and for dogs, make sure they are secure within the vehicle – for their safety and yours. The best way to do this is by using special dog seat belt. These come in the form of a small harness, making sure they are safely clipping in whilst also keeping them from distracting to the driver. Alternatively, dog guards, pet carriers and dog cages also work effectively.
Bring a little bit of home with you
Encourage your cat and canine to get comfortable in a new environment by bringing along their favourite toys and blankets. The familiarisation and safe smells will help to acclimatise them. If you use a cat or dog carrier, leave it out for a few nights with your pet’s favourite blanket inside so they can get used to it, and look to leave it open in the rool so they have a space of their own to retreat to.
Rachel Andre, Director of Natusan said: “Ensuring the safety and comfort of our pets is paramount – and is just as important as our own. By taking these five steps towards travelling safely with your pet – it will help to keep them calm whilst working to create a stress and hassle free holiday.”
