RSPCA: Don’t let your pet suffer this summer holiday

Monday, 13 June 2011 2:51 PM

Whether you are staying in this country or going abroad, it’s vital that pet owners make arrangements for their care while they are not at home.

There are a number of options to ensure your pet is cared for while you are away. You could leave them with friends or family, have a pet-sitter, or take them to a boarding establishment.*

More than 1,300 people have logged onto the RSPCA website, www.rspca.org.uk in the last two months alone to find information about pet care during the holiday season.**

RSPCA scientific officer for companion animals Dr Kerry Westwood said: “In the excitement of preparing for a holiday or weekend away, don't forget to make arrangements for your pets.

 “Whether you plan to take them with you or not, it can take time to sort out their care and so you should always do this well in advance.”

Ask a friend or family to look after them at your house – this can be the least stressful option for some pets as it causes the minimum of disruption to their routine. Make sure whoever you have asked to look after your pet knows about dietary requirements, exercise routine, any medication they may be taking and has emergency contact details for a vet. It is advisable to introduce your pet to the person who will be looking after it if they have not met before to make sure your pet gets on with them.

Your vet may be able to recommend a reputable boarding establishment that is suitable your pet. You should always pay a visit before arriving with your animal to check that facilities are clean, secure and draught-free and that animals currently staying there look happy and healthy. Boarding facilities should also ask for a proof of vaccination to prevent the spread of disease so you should take yours along every time you take your pet for a stay. They should also be licensed and insured.

The person looking after your animal has a legal responsibility to care for it, whether this is a friend or family member or at a cattery or kennel.

If you are planning to take your pet abroad, you will need a pet passport to avoid quarantine restrictions. Ask your vet for advice.***

The growing popularity of ‘staycations’ means more people are taking their pets on holiday. Before travelling, check for pet-friendly hotels and attractions, make sure your pet is healthy enough to travel and consider how they respond to spending time in a car or a train as some animals can find this very stressful. Many animals can also find the change in routine and environment very stressful so carefully consider whether taking your pet on holiday with you is the best option.

Remember to never leave your dog alone in a vehicle, conservatory or caravan as the heat can have fatal consequences. Cats and dogs, particularly those with light-coloured fur will also need pet-friendly sunscreen. Ask your vet for advice on suitable products.

For more information on how to care for your pet while on holiday, log onto www.rspca.org.uk

-Ends-

Notes to editors

* Never leave your pet on its own without a responsible person to care for it. Under the Animal Welfare Act, you must make sure it gets the care it needs at all times. Those found guilty of neglect face a £5,000 fine and/or six months in prison.

1,336 people visited the Taking Your Pet On Holiday page on the main RSPCA website – www.rspca.org.uk since the page was launched on April 11 2011 until 18th May 2011.

 *** If you are planning to take your dog, cat or ferret out of the UK and travel within the European Union (or to certain, non-European countries within the Scheme), it is a legal requirement that each individual pet have a pet passport.

Information on the rules of the scheme (including approved countries, and routes), and regulations regarding bringing pets back into the UK are detailed in the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) or from the DEFRA Helpline - 08459 33 55 77.

The movement of other pet species within the European Union is covered by the European Union Regulation on the non-commercial movement of pet animals (998/2003).

Images and interviews are available. Please contact the press office on 0300 123 0244/0288 or email press@rspca.org.uk

RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS
Press office direct lines: 0300 123 0244/0288 Fax: 0303 123 0099
Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) Tel 08448 222888 and ask for pager number 828825
Email: press@rspca.org.uk Website: www.rspca.org.uk

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