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Pets contribute to our lives in a myriad of ways. Most us treat our pets like furry children and can’t imagine existing without them. So, what are we to do when it’s time to hit the road and stretch our holiday wings?

For The Pets That Stay Behind

You might be leaving your pet with a professional pet sitter, in a pet hotel or just with a friendly face excited to look after your wigglebutt. In any event, there are a few things you need to leave and communicate with whomever is looking after your babies.

• Vet information
• Feeding schedule
• Enough food and snacks for the duration of your trip
• Medication schedule (when applicable)
• Enough medication for the duration of your trip
• Your pet’s fears and bugbears, to make sure their sitter doesn’t inadvertently upset them
• Emergency plans and contacts of trusted humans in the area
• Favourite toys and comfort items (in case of fireworks)
• A blanket or other soft item with your scent on it

What To Know About A Pet Hotel

Each pet hotel, cattery or kennel will have its unique specifications. It is wise to consider being over prepared rather than under prepared. Here is a list of what is generally required:

• All dogs need to be socialised to prevent incidents when sharing space
• Rabies vaccination
• All annual vaccinations
• Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccination – at least 2 weeks prior to check in
• Parvo virus vaccinations
• Snuffles (for cats)
• Sterilisation (if older than 6 months)
• Tick and flea control
• Copy of owners ID, proof of residence & veterinary book
• Deworming

Treat Them

The following items are a bit more of a reach but will make your and your pet’s holiday extra special and enjoyable.

Collapsible Bed

This handy dog bed from Camp Craft is a must-have for your bougie buddy.

Collapsible Water And Food Bowl

There are many on the market, but Woolies’ Posh Pet range is too cute to pass up.

Drying Coats

This drying coat from Dry Pooch is the perfect solution for a pooch that can’t get enough of the water! It’s made in South Africa and fits most pets. You won’t need to drench your car with that lovely wet-dog smell!

Pet Ventilation Lattice

It’s inevitable that, on your road trip, you will be forced to leave your furbaby in the car. Make sure that they are safe and comfortable without risking wandering hands reaching in with this ventilation lattice from Furball.

Car Fan

Make sure they are cool and collected when you leave them in the car with this USB powered car fan from Takealot.

Tether System

Make sure your pup can roam to their heart’s content while still being safe from whatever ditches or scary animals your holiday destination holds. This hardwearing tether system from Ruffwear is made with climbing grade hardware and components, so you know your pup will be safe.

Portable Baby Gate

Make sure that your pet is kept away from out-of-bounds areas in your holiday home with this portable baby gate from Clicks.