Pets

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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.

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

www.cats.org.uk/bromley/ contact-us

Email: neutering@bromley. cats.org.uk

Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) SC037711 (Scotland) NEU_2343 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.

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. 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.

This is Cookie, a kind-natured cat who likes to sneak up on you in the bath! Cookie is very much a home cat - I think he thinks he is human! He loves a cuddle - we wouldn't be without him. Louise Knight

My girl Margo is almost two. A happy go lucky Cockapoo. Loves everyone but has no idea about personal space! Eloise Hinton This is our rescue pup Toby, who has just turned two. He loves exploring all the wonderful woodlands and parks in the borough and making loads of dog friends. He is playful and cheeky, with a case of selective hearing, but is a secret big softie who loves cuddles. Emily Davies

Idris is Persian and very loving and clingy – and follows Suri (his Aunty) everywhere! Jin Nailedit

This is Boo. She’s an eight-year-old Bengal/ Ragdoll cross and a typical cat. She sleeps most of the day apart from mealtimes and will only let you stroke her if she wants you to! Julia Sims

This is our gorgeous Scout. He is a four-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and likes nothing more than cuddles, walks in woods and food! He is extremely affectionate and loves everybody! Emma Donovan

This is our Great Dane, Tucker. He comes to our shop every day, so he’s a working dog who loves meeting people and especially other dogs. Julia Reed Here’s Arlo, a 17-month old Tibetan Terrier who loves life. His favourite things to do are running like crazy on beaches or playing with sticks in parks. He’s so gentle, and a little bit of a chicken! Laura Graham Godenho This is Ruby our English Bulldog - the best breed on the planet! She’s so lovely, we couldn’t love her more. She loves a tummy rub. Lesley Plumb

Here’s Charleigh, who is one. She is a feisty but affectionate kitten and loves to play with Lola. She was gifted as we unfortunately lost her brother from another litter and she is the spitting image of him. Samiie Broye