Taking your dog on holiday in the UK: a checklist

• Check the place you're staying is dog-friendly, tell them you're bringing your dog, and ask about leaving them in the room. Most places only allow it while you're still on the premises.
• Look up dog-friendly walks, pubs and beaches nearby. Some beaches don't allow dogs, especially in summer, so check the council's rules before you go.
• Find the nearest vet to where you're staying, and their out-of-hours service.

• Food and bowls, treats, and water for the journey
• Lead, harness and collar, with the tag on
• Their bed, or a blanket that smells of home
• Any medication, with enough to last the whole trip
• Poo bags, a towel, and a cool mat if it's warm
• Their vaccination record, and a recent photo

Dogs Trust suggests checking your dog's microchip details are up to date before you go, and making sure the tag has contact details that work while you're away. The engraved tag should still show your name and home address, which the law asks for, with a mobile number you'll answer.

With a QR tag, you can add a local contact as the emergency contact on your dog's profile before you go, and change it back when you're home. If your dog goes missing, turn on lost mode.

The Highway Code says dogs should be suitably restrained in a vehicle, so they can't distract you or be hurt if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, a pet carrier, a dog cage or a dog guard all work. Stop for breaks and water, and never leave your dog alone in a warm car.

• Keep your dog on the lead until they know the area, and practise recall somewhere safe first.
• Use a short lead near roads, and on paths shared with cyclists or horse riders.
• Walking near farm animals? Check the countryside rules for dog walkers first.
• Give them time to settle before leaving them alone, and don't leave them for long.
• On hot days, walk early and late, and take shade and fresh water to the beach.

A dog in a new place doesn't know the way back. Start our lost dog checklist straight away, tell the local council's dog warden and nearby vets, and make a lost dog poster with your mobile number.