Taking your Beagle on holiday sounds appealing, but your hound’s welfare must be your primary concern.
Consider your destination carefully—both the journey there and the conditions upon arrival. Think about suitable accommodation for both you and your hound.
Long journeys can be as stressful for animals as they are for humans. Before travelling, research the temperature and humidity at your destination, as these may differ significantly from home conditions and could be unsuitable for your hound.
Keep in mind that sudden environmental changes can distress or sicken your hound. Managing their care at your destination may prove challenging. Most apartments, hotels, and beaches don’t allow dogs, so check that your Beagle is welcome before departing.
While your Beagle is family and you may want them with you on holiday, consider their wellbeing carefully, they might be happier in a quality boarding kennel.
Planning your journey
Before getting too excited about taking your dog on holiday, consider how travelling will affect you, your family, and most importantly, your Beagle.
What to bring for your Beagle
- Ensure annual vaccinations are up to date
- The telephone number of your normal Vet
- Lead & pooper scooper or waste bags
- Supply of usual food, feed bowls & treats
- Water bowl & plastic bottle of water for journey
- Dog bed & blankets
- Favourite toys
- Doggy first aid kit
- Parasite control
- Travel sickness pills (if required)
- Shampoo, towels and grooming kit (in case your hound rolls in something smelly)
- Adequate supply of any medication your pet may need
- Kaolin suspension in case of diarrhoea
Remember
- Dogs are not always welcome and you may find that your activities are restricted, limiting your ability to enjoy yourself.
- There may not be anywhere for your dog to stay when you arrive at your destination.
- Older dogs with impaired vision and hearing may find it the unexpected change in their routine stressful.
- Long journeys and hot weather can be uncomfortable, distressing and sometimes dangerous for your dog.
Image source: Dogster.com