The Complete Dog Travel Checklist: Everything You Need to Pack

Since Brexit, UK dogs travelling to the EU need an Animal Health Certificate issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) no more than 10 days before travel. It covers rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment, and microchip verification. If you're staying within the UK, you won't need this - but it's worth knowing the rules if you're tempted by a spontaneous ferry crossing.

Keep a copy of your dog's up-to-date vaccination history. Some kennels, doggy daycares, and even certain accommodation providers will ask to see proof of vaccinations, particularly for kennel cough.

Your dog must be microchipped by law in the UK (since 2016). Carry your microchip registration details and make sure your contact information is up to date - especially your mobile number. If your dog goes wandering in an unfamiliar place, this is your best chance of a reunion.

Pack your policy number and the insurer's emergency helpline number. Vet bills away from home can be eye-watering, and you don't want to be hunting through emails in a waiting room at midnight.

Before you travel, look up the nearest vet to where you're staying. Save their address and phone number in your phone. Many rural areas have limited out-of-hours cover, so check that too.

Don't assume you'll find your dog's usual brand at the local shop. Rural areas especially can have limited options. We always pack a couple of extra days' worth in case of delays or extended stays.

A collapsible silicone bowl weighs practically nothing and fits in any pocket. Absolute lifesaver for walks, car breaks, and pub gardens. We keep one clipped to every lead.

Some dogs react to changes in water - different mineral content, chlorine levels, and so on. If your dog has a sensitive tummy, bringing water from home for the first day or two can help them adjust.

High-value treats are golden for keeping your dog calm in new environments, rewarding good behaviour in the car, and bribing them back when they discover how exciting a sheep field is. Pack more than you think you'll need.

An airtight container keeps kibble fresh and stops your car smelling like a pet shop. Resealable bags work in a pinch, but a proper container is worth the boot space.

Highway Code Rule 57 states that dogs must be suitably restrained in a vehicle so they cannot distract the driver or injure you or themselves during an emergency stop. An unrestrained dog in a crash becomes a projectile - a 30kg dog at 30mph hits with the force of a baby elephant. Use a crash-tested harness, a secured crate, or a boot barrier. No exceptions.

Leads break, get lost, or get left behind at rest stops. Always have a backup. A long line (5-10 metres) is also brilliant for giving your dog freedom on beaches or in fields where you can't let them fully off-lead.

Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, your dog MUST wear a collar with a tag showing your name and address when in a public place. Yes, even if they're microchipped. The tag is a legal requirement on top of the chip. Include your mobile number too - it's not legally required but it's common sense.

Some situations call for a muzzle - certain ferry companies require them, some busy tourist spots, or if your dog gets anxious around unfamiliar dogs. If your dog might need one, make sure they're comfortable wearing it before the trip. Never introduce a muzzle for the first time in a stressful situation.

If you're walking near roads or in low light (which, let's be honest, is half the year in the UK), a reflective or LED collar makes your dog visible to drivers. A small investment that could save your dog's life.

This is probably the single most important comfort item you can bring. A bed or blanket that smells like home gives your dog an instant safe space in any new environment. Don't wash it before the trip - the familiar scent is the whole point.

Two or three familiar toys are plenty. Their absolute favourite plus a good chew toy for downtime. Over-packing toys just means more stuff to lose under holiday cottage sofas.

If you've ever had a Labrador discover the joy of a muddy estuary, you'll know why we say towels, not towel. Pack at least two dedicated dog towels. Microfibre ones dry fast and take up less space, but honestly, any old towel will do. Your holiday accommodation will thank you.

Using their usual bowl helps maintain routine. Some dogs won't eat from unfamiliar dishes - one more thing to stress about that's easily avoided.

If you're heading anywhere with long grass, woodland, or moorland (so basically anywhere nice in the UK), ticks are a real possibility. A proper tick remover tool costs a couple of quid and is infinitely better than trying to twist them out with your fingers. Check your dog after every walk, paying special attention to ears, armpits, and the groin area.

For minor cuts, grazes, and the inevitable thorn-in-paw incident. Dog-safe antiseptic spray is ideal, but saline wound wash works well too.

This sounds obvious, but it's surprisingly easy to forget daily medications in the rush of packing. Set a reminder if you need to. Pack more than you need in case of delays.

And then pack more. There is no such thing as too many poo bags. Running out at a beauty spot with no shop for miles is a special kind of panic. We stash them in every coat pocket, every bag, and the glove box.

Make sure your dog is up to date before you travel, especially if you're going somewhere with livestock. If treatment is due during your trip, bring it with you.

Self-adhesive vet wrap (cohesive bandage) is incredibly useful for paw injuries. It sticks to itself, not to fur, and can hold a makeshift dressing in place until you reach a vet.

For splinters, thorns, grass seeds, and other small foreign objects. Grass seeds in particular can work their way into ears and between toes and cause serious problems if not removed quickly.

Read the small print. How many dogs are allowed? Are there breed or size restrictions? Are dogs allowed on furniture or upstairs? Is there an additional pet fee or deposit? Are there any areas of the property that are off-limits? Knowing the rules in advance prevents awkward conversations on arrival.

Even if dogs are technically allowed on the sofa, covering it with your own throw shows consideration and protects against muddy paw prints and shed hair. It also means your dog gets to sit in their usual spot without you worrying about damage deposits.

If your dog is crate-trained, bringing their crate gives them a guaranteed safe space. It's also essential if the accommodation doesn't allow dogs to be left alone without one. A lightweight fabric travel crate folds flat for easy transport.

A pressure-fit stair gate can section off areas that are off-limits to your dog. Much less stressful than constantly calling them away from the host's prize cream carpet.

Pack a lint roller (for removing hair from furnishings), pet-safe surface cleaner, and paper towels. Accidents happen, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. Being able to clean up thoroughly shows respect for the property and helps keep dog-friendly places dog-friendly.