Bank holiday jams likely to add to journey times for many this weekend, so keeping pets well-nourished and occupied during any trip is essential.
Dog owners hitting the road for a Bank Holiday break are advised to make sure their pet pooch is safe and well during the car journey and void any hound hassle on the way.
It's also important to ensure pets are contented when they finally arrive at their bank holiday destination.
Melanie Sainsbury, veterinary education manager for raw food specialist Natures Menu, has listed a series of top tips to to keep Rover calm on the road trip and Fido fresh in any holiday home.
Follow these points for a memorable weekend away with your pet pooch:
* Safe travels : Everyone has fond memories of a family road trip from some point in their childhood, however they’re not quite as popular amongst our pets.
Make the journey as comfortable as possible and keep your dog suitably restrained in the car.
Don’t let them hang their head out of the window because this can result in foreign objects such as leaves, rocks and insects causing inflammation and damage to eyes, nose and ears.
Keep team hydrated and take regular stops for a bit of exercise whenever it is safe to do so.
* On-the-go: When packing essentials, don’t forget to make a checklist for your dog.
To help your pet feel at ease whilst on holiday and travelling, they’ll need a comfortable place to sleep, their favourite toy and, most importantly, a travel bowl for fresh water.
* Do some homework: Assuming all holiday parks and hotels have dog-friendly facilities is an easy mistake to make, however this isn’t always the case.
Before embarking on a staycation make sure to read up on your chosen accommodation’s pet policy to avoid disappointment.
* Poisonous plants : Keep an eye out for poisonous plants that are surprisingly harmful to dogs, including wisteria and tulip bulbs.
Keep a handful of treats on hand to lure the dog away from chewing on any plants when out and about.
* Fit to travel: Complete a quick health check for your dog before traveling. Ensure they’re up-to-date with all injections and wormed besides being protected from from fleas and ticks.
If necessary, seek professional advice from your pet before departure.
Melanie Sainsbury added: "Dogs are very much a part of the family which means that more people than ever are looking to take their pet on holiday with them.
"We want to make sure that our four-legged friends remain safe and have as much fun as humans on holiday. So follow the tips on what to do and what to avoid during the holiday season.”
