Holiday Preparation for Pet Parents
1. Arrange for a pet-sitter, house-sitter or boarding facility.
It is a great idea to arrange a meet-and-greet with a new pet-sitter before the trip to allow your pet to get to know them and discuss any special requirements your pet may have. If you are going away for an extended period of time, consider doing a short “trial” stay for 1-2 nights in advance of the trip just to make sure your pet settles well and there are no problems.
2. Contact your vet to get your pet’s vaccinations and preventative treatments up to date.
If your pet will be traveling to a new area, consider if any additional vaccines/preventative treatments are needed for certain areas e.g. heartworm prevention for Northern Australia particularly, paralysis tick prevention in Gippsland and up the East Coast.
3. Check that your pet’s microchip details are up to date.
If your pet happens to escape or get lost while you are away it is crucial that your microchip details are correct so that they can be safely returned home. Ensure that if you are not going to be contactable, you have an alternate contact listed on the microchip who will be contactable for the duration of your trip.
4. Ensure that your pet has enough of any regular medication and/or special diet for the duration of your holiday.
Be sure to discuss any health concerns with your regular veterinarian in advance of the trip and make plans for what to do if your pet becomes unwell while you are away.
5. Make sure your pet-sitter or boarding facility knows who to contact in case of emergency.
If you are going to be overseas or not easily contactable, make a plan with your pet-sitter as to what to do in the event of your pet needing veterinary care while you are away including how to cover payment of any bills. Ensure you have a plan for what will happen to your pet in case of bushfires or other natural disasters.
