Holiday plans for your pets

The UK is a nation of animal lovers, meaning many of us consider how we can include our pets in our holiday plans.

Going on a family holiday with a dog can be really exciting. It may be their first time playing in the sea or exploring the smells of the countryside, and they will love the fact you’re around for extra walks.

Holidays for pets

There are plenty of hotels and holiday lets for pets. Most of the holiday company websites allow you to search for places that welcome dogs. There are also companies like Dog Friendly Cottages, PetsPyjamas and Paws & Stay that only list accommodation suitable for our beloved pooches.

Camping is another option, with many sites happy for you and your four-legged friend to spend some time under canvas. Check first and follow any rules, especially where a campsite is on or near a farm with livestock.

Taking pets abroad

If you are planning to spend the summer in Europe, you may want to take your pet with you. Our furry friends’ rights to a pet passport disappeared when we left the EU, but as long as you follow the rules, it’s still possible to take them with you.

Instead of a passport you will need to get an animal health certificate (AHC). Your pet will also need to be microchipped and meet various health criteria, including a rabies vaccination.

You will need to get the AHC within 10 days of travelling to the EU. It's valid for four months of further travel within the EU, including your return to the UK. Full details can be found on the gov.uk website.

Looking after your pets while you’re away

Sharing everything with your pets is fun but it won’t always be sensible to take them on holiday with you. With the right paperwork, pets can go on planes but they will need to go in the hold and may face quarantine. This means it’s only really worth considering if you are planning a permanent move.

Likewise, even if you are planning a break in the UK, cats would probably prefer not to come along. They are hugely territorial and as they can get stressed in new environments, staying home is usually the best option.

Thankfully, our love of all things cats and dogs means there are plenty of ways to ensure they have a good time while you’re away. Kennels and catteries will provide care and accommodation, while for a cat you could ask a pet sitter to visit your home once or twice a day to feed them and check they’re happy.

Holiday plans for unusual pets

There are also options for unusual pets, whether that is a lop-eared bunny, a corn snake or a pink-toed tarantula. If you can’t persuade a friend or neighbour to look after them, either at their home or yours, there are boarding facilities available.

Fluffier pets fare best, with plenty of options for rabbits and small animals such as guinea pigs, hamsters and birds. You can also find specialist facilities for more exotic pets, with your local reptile centre a great place to start your search. Many offer boarding themselves or will be able to recommend a local specialist.

To find out how Co-op Insurance can help you look after your pet, visit our pet insurance website.

Whether or not you take them with you, visit our travel insurance website to find out more and to get a quote for cover.