Summer, sunshine, holiday season – but please make sure you’re well protected!
Travelling with pets requires preparation, and it’s not always easy to find the information you need. So what’s the best approach ? Continue reading
Interview: Franziska Iff
Is there a travel consultation service for pets?
The Vetsuisse veterinary clinic for small animalsin Bern does not offer a travel consultation service, although that would be a good idea; however, private veterinary practices do provide this advice.
How do I find out what I need to do to take my pet abroad?
You should always check what the requirements are for a smooth entry into and re-entry from Switzerland, and what diseases are prevalent in your destination country, before deciding whether to take your pet on holiday with you. Other considerations are also important, such as: how well does my pet cope with travel stress, and how tolerant is it of heat if we are travelling to a warmer region?
The vet’s practice is definitely a good place to start, and you can also find helpful information online. The website of the Federal Food Safety an Veterinary Office (FSVO) and the website of European scientific counsel companion animal parasites (ESCCAP) provide a good basis for effective planning.
It is worth starting early so that you are not rushed if there are any waiting periods following vaccinations.
How can I protect my pet from infectious diseases whilst abroad?
There are several ways to protect your pet against infectious diseases. First and foremost, it is important to ensure your pet has received the standard basic vaccinations, which are also recommended in Switzerland. In addition, depending on your destination, a rabies vaccination may be mandatory. To prevent travel-related illnesses in pets, protection against transmitting parasites (mosquitoes, ticks, flies and worms) is particularly crucial. This includes mosquito nets, repellents, spot-on treatments and regular checking for and removal of ticks.
What should I pack in my pet’s travel first aid kit?
It certainly makes sense to book an appointment with your vet well in advance of your trip so that you can discuss the necessary medication required for effective protection against fleas, mosquitoes and ticks. It is also important to pack a flea comb, tick tweezers, tweezers, a mosquito net, disinfectant and, if necessary, medication for travel sickness, diarrhoea and worming.