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Pet holiday safety checklist: how to travel safely with your furry friend

CO Safety

04 July 2025

Pet safety checklist for holidays
Whether you’re heading off for a weekend in the countryside or a longer family getaway, your pets are part of the adventure too. But just like you plan your own safety and comfort, your dog or cat needs a bit of prep to keep them calm, happy and protected especially when it comes to long journeys, new environments, and hidden risks. Here’s your go-to guide for safe and stress-free pet travel, with tips to help you feel confident and prepared every step of the way.

Pet safety checklist when you travel

Before you set off, make sure you’re using a well-ventilated and secure carrier that’s spacious enough for your pet to stand, lie down and turn around. For car journeys, the carrier should be safely strapped in so it doesn’t shift suddenly if you brake. If you’re travelling by air, double-check airline requirements in advance to avoid any last-minute hiccups.

Planning a long drive? Build in plenty of breaks so your pet can stretch their legs, go to the toilet and enjoy some fresh air. Pack some favourite toys or a blanket that smells like home to help them relax on the move.

Essentials to pack for a holiday with pets

As well as the usual food and water, don’t forget the practical bits that make travelling with pets smoother. You’ll want to include:

  • A non-spill water container or bottle
  • A leash or harness
  • Waste bags
  • Medication, if required
  • A small grooming kit
  • Your pet’s travel documents and ID
  • A pet-specific first aid kit for minor injuries

Having everything in one grab-and-go bag can make roadside stops or hotel check-ins much easier.

Holiday accommodation checks to keep your space calm and safe

When you arrive at your destination, set up a quiet, comfortable space where your pet can unwind away from the buzz of new surroundings. This could be a familiar crate, a bed in a spare room, or even just a blanket and toy corner in the living area.

And while you’re pet-proofing your temporary home, don’t forget about invisible dangers. If you’re staying in a holiday cottage or rental, it’s a good idea to bring a portable carbon monoxide alarm with you. CO is odourless, tasteless and potentially fatal to humans and animals alike. Not all properties have alarms fitted, so it’s a small safety step that offers big peace of mind.

Explore FireAngel’s portable CO alarm with digital display.

Keep pets safe on holiday with a CO alarm

Visit the vet before you travel

If you’re travelling a long distance or staying away for more than a few days, it’s worth booking a vet check-up beforehand. A quick health review can flag anything that might cause issues on the road or away from home.

It’s also smart to keep a list of local vets and emergency clinics near your holiday destination, just in case something unexpected crops up. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your pet safe.

Update tags and microchips before you go

Before any trip, check that your pet’s ID tag and microchip details are fully up to date, especially your current mobile number. If you get separated, this small detail can make a huge difference in reuniting you quickly.

You might also want to attach a temporary tag with your holiday accommodation details, particularly if you’ll be staying in one place for a while.

Safe travels and wagging tails await!

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