Kiwis urged to plan pet-friendly holiday

Southern Cross Pet Insurance, alongside the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Incorporated, is urging Kiwis to carefully decide on what to do with their beloved pets this holiday season.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach on whether or not to take your pet with you on holiday, according to Southern Cross Pet Insurance general manager Anthony McPhail.

“Most importantly, your pet needs to feel safe and secure whether they’re travelling with you or being cared for at home,” he explained.

Here are the top tips, as outlined by Southern Cross Pet Insurance and SCPI, to keep in mind when making pet-friendly holiday plans:

Leaving your pet at home:

• Hire a house or pet-sitter or ask a family member to stay in your home to look after your pet – this will keep your animals in their regular routine and in a familiar environment;
• Consider boarding them in a professional kennel or cattery;
• If they’re staying in a kennel or cattery, your pet will need to have up-to-date vaccinations and worming treatments – don’t leave this to the last minute;
• Separation anxiety can be a problem for animals, particularly dogs, so whichever option you choose, leave a favourite toy or something with your scent on so your pet feels comfortable and secure;
• If you have pets who have a close bond with each other, they will cope better if you keep them together while you are away;
• Consider doing a trial day with your pet sitter, kennels or cattery in advance of your holiday to see how the person interacts with your pet.

Taking your pet with you:

• Look for a dog-friendly holiday accommodation – check whether they accept animals, have fences for security and safety, and if the area is hazard-free for your pet;
• If your pet has not received their full course of vaccinations, avoid public areas such as parks
• If you’re at a campground, consider if they have leash restrictions, are they dog-friendly and is your pet calm around children;
• Check the location of vets in the area you are visiting in case of any accident or illness while you’re away;
• Try to get your pet used to being transported before any long trips – contain them in the backseat in a securely anchored crate, keep vehicle windows down, and stop regularly to allow your dog exercise and to go to the toilet;
• Never leave your pet in a parked car, even if it’s for a quick lunch or shopping trip – rapid rise in temperature can cause organ damage, and even death;
• Young animals, in particular, can be easily overwhelmed, so be sensitive to your pet’s limitations and be prepared for more breaks if their behaviour indicates stress (e.g. whining/crying, pacing, panting, licking their face);
• A pheromone spray can mimic the pheromones of your pet’s mother; helping reduce their anxiety and give them a sense of security in a new environment;
• Make sure you have pet insurance to prepare for unforeseen circumstances;
• Bring familiar objects with you such as your pet’s bedding, bowl, leashes, and favourite toy to help them feel comfortable away from home.