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The ultimate guide to travelling with your pet!
Travelling with your pet can be an enriching experience, but requires careful preparation. Choosing suitable accommodation, arranging transport, taking all the essentials with you and complying with local rules are all essential to ensure a worry-free trip. Here's our advice on going on holiday with your pet with complete peace of mind!
The ultimate guide to travelling with your pet!
Travelling with your pet is a rewarding experience, but one that requires good preparation. Whether you're the proud owner of a dog, cat or even another four-legged companion, it's important to organise your trip well to ensure everyone's comfort and well-being. Here's our ultimate guide to a worry-free trip with your pet, whether you're going away for the weekend or on an extended holiday with Clévacances.
1. Choosing suitable accommodation
The first step in travelling with a pet is to find accommodation that accepts pets and is adapted to their needs. At Clévacances, several accommodations are designed to welcome your four-legged companions. Whether you're looking for a house with a garden to let your dog run free or a flat with a balcony to give your cat a spot of fresh air, Clévacances offers a selection of accommodation where your pets are welcome.
Clévacances tip: When you book your accommodation, always inform the owner that you are coming with a pet, even if it is mentioned as being allowed. This avoids any unpleasant surprises and ensures that the space is well prepared to welcome your companion.
2. Prepare the necessary documents
Travelling with a pet, whether in France or abroad, often involves gathering certain documents. Here's what you might need:
- European pet passport (compulsory if you're travelling outside France with your dog, cat or ferret).
- Up-to-date health record, with proof of rabies vaccination.
- Certificate of good health if your pet is of a fragile nature or has special needs.
These documents may be requested at any time, especially if you are flying or crossing a border.
3. Plan for transport
Transportation is a crucial stage for your pet's well-being during the journey. Depending on the mode of transport you choose, the rules may vary:
- In the car: If you take the car, remember to plan regular breaks to allow your pet to stretch its legs and drink water. Use a safety harness or carrier to keep your pet safe. Never leave your pet unattended in the car, especially in hot weather.
- On trains: SNCF allows pets on its trains, subject to certain conditions. Small animals must be carried in a bag or cage, while large dogs must be kept on a lead and wear a muzzle. It is also necessary to buy a specific ticket for your pet.
- By plane: If you are travelling by plane, check with the airline well in advance. Each airline has its own rules about transporting animals. Some animals can travel in the cabin (if they are small), while others must be transported in the hold. In all cases, it is essential to use an approved crate adapted to the size of your pet.
4. Checklist of essentials for your pet
To make your pet feel at home during your trip, don't forget to pack the following essentials:
- His usual food and bowls (water and food)
- A comfortable lead and harness
- A bed or blanket to provide a familiar space
- Toys and treats to reward him
- His first aid kit, including medication, dewormer and anti-parasite
- His documents (passport, vaccination certificate)
5. Respect local rules and the environment
As a pet owner, you have a responsibility to respect local rules, whether in town, at the beach or in the wild. Keep your dog on a lead when required, always pick up after it and make sure it doesn't disturb local wildlife. Some tourist sites or nature parks may be sensitive to the presence of animals, so it's important to find out in advance and follow the instructions for harmonious cohabitation.
Travelling with your pet can be a most enjoyable experience if it is well prepared. By following these tips and opting for welcoming accommodation like that offered by Clévacances, you can be sure of unforgettable moments with your faithful companion. Whether by the sea, in the mountains or in the countryside, the memories created with your pet will make every getaway even more special!
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