Practice News
 All Going on a Summer Holiday?Wednesday 13th May, 2009
At this time of year when preparing to go on holiday there are so many things to remember- passport-check, swim wear-check, flip flops-check, sun cream-check, Fido and Felix’s vaccinations......whoops!
Many dogs and cats stay in kennels when their owners are away but you need to be sure vaccinations are up to date or you could have a nasty surprise as you drop them off on your way to the airport. Most pet owners keep up to date with vaccinations as a matter of course-it’s an important yearly health check for your pet and a good time to discuss any problems or concerns you may have. Sometimes time flies so fast that these things are forgotten and your wake up call is as you book them into the kennels. Many kennels require kennel cough vaccination for a dog to stay (a good idea and this vaccine, administered up the nostrils, may not be given as routine but will be available if you ask for it. It can also be valuable to have your pet checked over before your departure for peace of mind whilst you relax on holiday.
Some pets have the privilege of being cared for at home and many registered pet sitters are available to provide loving care in your own home. There is a national register of pet sitters or alternatively family or friend may be able to recommend a trusted guardian for your pet. Always ask for references and arrange to meet your sitter to discuss your requirements and make sure they are aware of who your vets are in case of emergency while you are away.
Now there are some high flying pets with their own pet passport allowing them travel in the E.U. and other foreign countries without the need for quarantine. The bad news is if you want to take your pet away this year it is too late for these summer holidays as the process takes at least 6 months to complete. Your pet will need to be micro-chipped and then vaccinated and blood tested for rabies- your vet or the pets travel scheme website will be able to give you full details. (www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/pets/index.htm)
What it is worth bearing in mind is that although your pet will be protected against rabies, there are other, potentially fatal, diseases that your pet may be exposed to in a foreign country that you need to take additional precautions against. Some countries may also have requirements on tick and tapeworm treatment to be administered within a certain timescale before entering the country (this includes the U.K. at present) which you can also check out via the pets travel scheme website.
With the credit crunch many people are staying at home this year and there are many holidays available that your pets may enjoy with you in the UK especially as more accommodation is becoming pet friendly. This can be a great way for you to relax with your furry friend- think of all that quality time together. One holiday I have heard good reports of is canal boating- a new walk every day (not to mention new pubs) and a very relaxing time. Even cats seem happy on the boats
Hopefully that helps with any packing problems you may have. Bon Voyage for you and your pets!
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