Essential UK Dog Holiday Checklist

Most pet owners take their dog on holiday in the UK. However, there’s a lot of preparation that goes into this. While you might just be focusing on packing food, treats, and toys, protecting your dog should be your top priority - especially while you’re away from home. This means packing things like a first aid kit, medication, and flea treatment, all of which are typically overlooked or easily forgotten about. 

If you have a trip planned with your pet, consider our essential UK dog holiday checklist.

Our Dog Holiday Checklist

Packing for your dog’s UK holiday may not need as much planning, but it still requires some preparation. Whether you have a holiday coming up or simply want to learn more about what you should bring for your dog for your next trip, follow our helpful dog holiday checklist. 

1 - Collar, Lead & Harness

A collar, lead, and harness are no doubt holiday essentials in the UK. We’re home to some of the best coastal walks and forest landscapes, but your dog can only experience them with you if they have their walking equipment. While many dog owners love giving their pets off-lead freedom, some spots still require keeping them on the lead. 

Whether you're planning a countryside holiday or a short city break, a collar, name tag, harness, and a lead are essentials to keep your dog safe during their trip. 

2 - Medication

Medication might not be essential for every dog owner, but we’re sure it will be for most. There are plenty of dogs on some form of medication, whether it be for less serious issues like anxiety or something more serious. Even if your trip is just a few days long, it’s important to remember your dog’s medication to keep them comfortable and prevent putting them at risk of falling ill, which could ultimately end up cutting your trip short. 

3 - Flea Treatment

UK holidays expose your dog to many new environments, such as grassy fields and woodlands where fleas thrive year-round - especially in the warmer months. If your holiday involves long walks and staying in pet-friendly accommodations where other dogs have been, it's essential to pack suitable flea treatment to prevent infestation. 

The most convenient treatment for trips is spot-on solutions, which can be applied directly to your dog's skin to provide lasting protection during your holiday. 

4 - First Aid Kit

We can’t predict how your holiday with your dog will go, but it’s better to be safe than sorry if anything does go wrong. Dog first aid kits often include bandages, vet tape, scissors, thermometers, and wipes, which come in handy if anything happens to your dog. Although local vets are available throughout the country, having a dog first aid kit helps you handle minor issues without delay.

5 - Food & Treats

Pack your dog's usual food and treats to maintain routine and keep them happy. Unless your dog's food is prepackaged, we advise using airtight containers to keep it fresh for the full duration of your trip. In addition to their regular food, no holiday is complete without a few of your dog's favourite treats to keep them happy and occupied.  

6 - Bowls

Many pet-friendly accommodations provide bowls for your dog, but there’s always the chance that they won’t. For best planning, check if feeding bowls for your dog are included as part of your stay, and take your own just to be safe. If you plan on taking a long car journey, walking, and hot beach days, consider taking some collapsible bowls to carry on the go. 

7 - Bedding

There’s nothing like home comfort when you’re away on holiday, and your dog will likely agree. Packing their favourite bed and blankets gives them a familiar, cosy spot to relax, and avoids having to rely on your accommodation to provide a comfortable bed for them. 

8 - Shampoo & Towels 

If your dog gets muddy (inevitable on most UK trips!), pack some dog-safe shampoo to keep them clean. If your holiday involves lots of walking or spending time in new environments, opt for a flea treatment formula rather than regular dog shampoo to use alongside your usual preventative treatment. Additionally, pack a few of their own towels to use after walks or bathing. While towels are usually provided at accommodations, you’ll likely need to bring your own for your dog. 

9 - Toys

Don't forget your dog's favourite toys! They're essential for keeping them entertained and happy on the trip when they're away from their usual routine. Balls, chew toys, and teddies are all quite lightweight and can be easily packed with the rest of their belongings.

10 - Documents

Dogs don't typically need travel documents when staying within the UK - only abroad. However, ensuring your dog is microchipped and vaccinated is strongly advised to ensure their safety. 

It's generally recommended to keep any documentation regarding their microchip or vaccination history when travelling to a new place, even if it's within the UK itself. This allows local authorities to quickly identify your dog if they were to go missing in a new area and makes it easier to confirm their medical status.

Seasonal Flea Considerations in the UK

Before booking your holiday, consider the seasons to choose the best time to travel with your pet, including when parasites are at their peak.

• Spring / Summer - The worst season for dog fleas is usually summer, as the warmer temperatures create the perfect breeding conditions. It’s essential to apply flea treatment before travel in the UK at this time of year.  

• Autumn - Fallen leaves and damp areas mean flea and tick infestation is still prominent. Daily checks are advised to keep an eye out for any potential infestation, despite it not being as common during this season. 

• Winter - The risk of flea infestation is significantly lower in colder months, but it’s not eliminated. We still advise routine treatment regardless of the temperature change to ensure your dog remains protected from fleas in winter. Fleas are present all year round, no matter the season we’re in, and treatment should be given monthly to prevent infestation.

Checking Your Dog's Health Before Holiday Travel

Before ticking off your dog holiday, you must ensure your dog is in good health. Being far from home can be stressful if your dog falls ill, so it's best to check them over or book a vet appointment if they have any pre-existing health concerns. 

This also includes checking for signs of flea infestation, such as regular itching and general discomfort. If your dog seems fine, we still advise using preventative flea treatment to cover the duration of your trip. 

At FleaSolve, we've got flea prevention sorted for your dog's UK holiday. Our flea treatment is suitable for dogs over 8 weeks old, and weighing over 2kg up to 60kg, with options available for small dogs and even extra-large breeds. 

To prevent flea infestation during your UK holiday, shop our vet-strength flea treatment for dogs today. 

FAQs

Can I stay in a hotel with my dog?

Yes, you can stay in a hotel with your dog as long as it’s dog-friendly. Hotels will make it clear on their website whether dogs are welcome, but if you’re unsure, give them a call before making a booking to double-check. 

What if my dog gets ill on holiday?

If your dog gets ill on holiday, we advise calling the closest vets immediately. Most areas in the UK have a nearby vet, including emergency vets which are open 24 hours a day. 

What should I do if I forget something for my dog? 

If you forget something for your dog, don't worry too much, as most essentials are easy to purchase from local shops. However, if you forget something like important medication, it may be worth contacting your vet for advice or requesting an emergency prescription from a vet near your location.

Can dogs get fleas on UK holidays? 

Yes, dogs can get fleas on UK holidays, just as they can get fleas at home. In fact, it’s probably more likely for your dog to come into contact with fleas during their holiday, especially if it involves lots of walking in outdoor environments or being around other animals. 

How often should flea treatment be applied before travel?

Most spot-on treatments protect for a month. Apply flea treatment for dogs shortly before leaving for your trip to ensure full coverage.

Still got a question? Contact us!