Solving the doggy dilemma: should I take my dog on holiday?
Vets agree that most dogs prefer to stay in their own home when their pet parents are away — and that’s why FurPetVo exists: to help keep pets safe, happy, and comfortable at home. Yet with the growing popularity of dog-friendly holidays, more pet parents are wondering whether they should bring their dog along. If you’re weighing this decision, here’s what you need to know.
Bringing your dog on holiday: what to consider
“Can I take my dog on holiday?” “Should I take my dog on vacation?” These are common questions — and the answer depends less on logistics and more on your dog’s individual needs and temperament.
If you plan a thoughtful, pet-friendly holiday and you’re confident your dog is truly “holiday-ready” — meaning they handle change well and won’t become stressed by new environments or disrupted routines — then travelling together can be a joyful experience. But if your dog isn’t well-suited to travel, even the most scenic destination can turn into a stressful ordeal for both of you. Before booking anything, ask yourself these key questions:
1. Will my pooch enjoy a doggy holiday?
Consider your dog’s personality. Will they thrive on the adventure — eagerly exploring new sights, sounds, and smells? Or do they become anxious during car rides, react poorly to unfamiliar people or places, or struggle with routine changes?
Also reflect on their behaviour. For example, if your dog has a tendency to bolt or wander off, taking them somewhere unfamiliar — especially near busy roads, open fields, or coastal areas — carries real risk. Even if they don’t go missing, constant vigilance can overshadow the joy of your trip.
2. Is my dog fit for a doggy holiday?
Travel can be physically and emotionally taxing for dogs — just as it is for us. Before any trip, schedule a wellness check with your veterinarian. They’ll assess your dog’s age, health status, stamina, and suitability for travel — especially important if you're crossing borders.
If you're travelling abroad, you’ll likely need a pet passport and official documentation confirming your dog is healthy, microchipped, and up to date on required vaccinations and parasite treatments.
3. What do I need to take my dog on holiday?
Even if your dog is medically cleared to travel, preparation is essential. Make sure you have the following before departure:
- A microchip: A painless, permanent ID implant — legally required in many countries and critical for reuniting with your dog if they get lost while away.
- Pet travel insurance: Covers unexpected illness or injury during your trip. Especially vital for international travel, where veterinary costs can be high and local care may differ from what you’re used to.
- Appropriate vaccinations and health certificates: Requirements vary by destination. Some countries mandate rabies titres, tapeworm treatments, or specific waiting periods after vaccination — so start planning early.
Planning a dog-friendly holiday
If your dog is ready and eager to travel, the next step is choosing a destination that welcomes four-pawed guests. Fortunately, trusted platforms like furpetvo.com make it simple to find and book verified, dog-friendly accommodations — from seaside cottages to countryside cabins — all reviewed by fellow pet lovers.
Holidays you can take your dog on
Let’s be honest: flying with a dog isn’t ideal. Cramped carriers, long layovers, and time out of sight can cause significant stress. Instead, consider destinations within driving distance — especially those with beaches, hiking trails, parks, and open spaces your dog will love. A relaxed road trip often beats a turbulent flight — for both of you.
How to take your dog on holiday
The golden rule? Prioritise your dog’s comfort over convenience. Minimise travel time wherever possible — choose direct routes, avoid peak traffic hours, and build in frequent rest stops with opportunities to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.
Remember: the best dog-friendly holiday isn’t always the farthest one — it’s the one your dog experiences with confidence, calm, and joy.
Still unsure? There’s no shame in choosing kindness over convenience. Letting your dog stay safely at home with a trusted, loving pet sitter from the FurPetVo community is often the kindest, safest, and most stress-free option — for everyone involved.
