lifestyle
Pets
Eight things to consider before travelling with pets
Travelling can be unsettling for animals and there are many things to think about before setting off. Whether travelling by car, air, rail or sea, it's vital to check pets can be accommodated. Here, StressFreeCarRental.com have put together some key considerations for owners to think about before taking pets on a trip…
Suitability of the breed: If you’re thinking of flying, you may need to consider whether the animal you have will be okay being transported on a plane. Dog breeds like Lhasa Apsos, Pugs and Bull Terriers are not suited to flying, particularly those with snubbed-noses as this makes them sensitive to air changes. The same goes for snubbednosed cats including Himalayan and Persian Cats. The best option for these breeds is to consider travelling an alternative way, such as the Eurostar, Eurotunnel or ferry.
Animal documentation: Getting your pet passport
and animal health certificate are essential things you need before you travel.
Vaccinations: Just like with humans, your pet will need to be up-to-date with all their essential vaccinations before travelling. Making sure they have their booster jabs if they need them and rabies vaccinations are essential. Check with the country you’re travelling to, to check what their policies are, because each one will be different.
Comfortable carriers: One of the most important parts of the travelling process is making sure your pet is comfortable, which will make the transition as relaxing for them as possible. This means getting a comfortable carrier that is big enough or making sure the area they’re travelling in is suitable for a long journey. Cost: As well as vet fees, there are other fees that will need to be taken into account. For example, if arrangements need to be made for someone to pick them up or the extra costs for flights and ferries. Transporting pets can be an expensive process. Age of your pet: Some older animals may find the experience stressful, whereas others may not be able to adjust to the climate of a new location so always keep the best interests of your pet in mind. Some animals may get lost: Make sure your pet has a collar and are microchipped in case they go missing. Or have a tracking device fitted so you can keep tabs on their whereabouts is a good idea. Pet travel insurance Pets will need travel insurance. This makes sure that the worst is covered, such as if your pet gets lost, or an injury occurs.
Neuter your Cat for £5
Do you live in our Bromley area (BR1 - 4 or SE20, SE23 & SE26) and would like some help to get your cat neutered? We are offering you the chance to have your cat neutered for just £5. For more information please contact Bromley Cats Protection on :
07776667852 w w w. c a t s . o r g . u k / b r o m l e y / contact-us Email:
neutering@bromley. cats.org.uk Reg Charity
Pet-proof your summer garden
Did you know that some summer blooms can be dangerous to pets? Pet owners need to be careful of what plants are brought into the garden. The creative community hub at DIYS.com sought to find out the most toxic summer plants pet owners should avoid planting in their gardens - pay attention! The Autumn Crocus – Can cause severe vomiting, liver and kidney damage, and respiratory failure. Azalea – Eating even a few leaves can result in vomiting, diarrhoea and excessive drooling. Cyclamen – If ingested, cyclamen can cause severe vomiting and even death. Lilies – There are dangerous and benign lilies and it’s important to know the difference, so do some research on this before you plant or uproot them.
203644 (England and Wales) SC037711 (Scotland) NEU_2343
Oleander – Leaves and flowers are extremely toxic if ingested and can cause severe vomiting. In worst cases, it can slow the heart rate and can even cause death. Daffodils – Ingestion of the bulb, plant or flower can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and even possible cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. Lily of the Valley – Can cause symptoms similar to digitalis (foxglove) ingestion. These include vomiting, diarrhoea, a drop in heart rate, severe cardiac arrhythmias and possibly seizures.
18 Life in... BROMLEY July 2022
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