What to pack when taking your dog on holiday with you
Taking your dog or dogs on holiday with you is now more do-able than ever before, with more and more dog-friendly holiday accommodation (check out Canine Cottages) available. There is, of course, also the options of camping, caravanning and motorhoming at dog-friendly campsites.
Like you, your dog will need (you) to pack certain essentials and maybe some luxuries too to help them enjoy their holiday to the max. Harbour Hounds has put together a handy packing list to help you make sure you don’t forget anything.
The Dog’s on holibobs Packing List:
Collar & Lead - you may walk your pooch off the lead at home but in new surroundings there will be times when you need more control, so don’t forget your collar and lead or harness, with name tag -these are key essentials to keep your dog safe and secure. And did you know, it is also a legal requirement in England and Wales that all dogs are microchipped and tagged?
Food, bowls and a bottle for water - holidays are not the best time to introduce changes to your dog’s diet (although the odd sausage may fall of the BBQ) so take a stock of their usual food with you, especially if you use fresh or raw food; it may even be possible to arrange a delivery to your holiday address. Bowls may not be provided at your accommodation so don’t forget these. Collapsible ones are great for when you’re out and about.
Treats and a treat bag - rewarding a dog for good behaviour or training is not something that stops on holiday so make sure you have a good supply of treats with you and a treat bag for handy dispensing when you are out. The odd doggie ice cream is also a must on holiday.
Toys and balls - holidays are a time for fun and games for everyone so don’t forget to take along their favourite toy or ball, or perhaps treat your dog to a new eco-friendly toy from our range.
Poo bags – never to be without (even in the winning ring at Crufts!) We love Adios Plastic compostable poo bags, which are 100% plastic-free.
Backpack beach bag - that also turns into a handy mat to sit on. Yes, that’s right, our drawstring beach bag is the perfect carry-all for a day out and when turned inside out makes a waterproof mat.
Bed and bedding - taking your dog’s own bed and bedding, if you can fit it in, will help give them some familiarity in strange surroundings and help them settle. If you can’t take the whole bed, take a blanket or mat that they use at home.
EM Tick-off Necklace - knotted with anti-tick ceramic beads, these cool dog necklaces not only look super cool on the beach, they also help prevent ticks attaching to your dog; essential for walks in woods or anywhere with long grass.
Bandana - want your dog to look nautically stylish? Then a Harbour Hounds natty bandana is just the thing to give your dog style and panache. If it’s a hot day you can also soak it in cold water, and it will help to keep your pooch cool. You may also want to take along your dog’s coat for cooler days or evenings. or if the weather is not so kind.
Dog drying robe - a dog drying coat is a must-have for dogs on holidays, whether they love the water or not. Having a soft, comfortable drying robe is just the thing to snuggle in after a walk on the beach will keep them warm and dry, and keep your car, caravan, motorhome, holiday cottage, apartment or hotel room sand and muck-free.
With our handy packing list you are sure to pack everything your needs that will help you all have a holiday full of pawfect memories. Happy holidays everyone!
For more information about Harbour Hounds, our range of accessories for dogs, including our popular Beach Dog Drying Coats, and their owners visit the Harbour Hounds website www.harbourhounds.com or contact us on woof@harbourhounds.com.