Pet Owners Urged to Pack a Holiday Health Kit for Their Dogs and Cats
New advice from Agria Petinsure highlights the essential medicines and health items to bring when travelling with pets.
Whether travelling across the country or heading abroad, forgetting essential medication or health supplies can quickly turn a relaxing break into a stressful experience for both pets and their owners.
"Just as people pack prescription medicines and first-aid supplies for themselves, pets need the same consideration," says Maeve McCluskey, Dog Care Specialist at Agria Petinsure. "A little preparation can help prevent unnecessary vet visits and ensure pets remain comfortable and healthy throughout the trip."
Agria Petinsure recommends creating a travel health kit that includes:
Prescription medications
Owners should bring enough medication to cover the entire trip, plus a few extra days' supply in case of delays. Medicines should remain in their original packaging, with dosage instructions clearly visible.
Flea, tick and worm treatments
Different destinations may expose pets to parasites they don't normally encounter. Keeping preventative treatments up to date can help protect against unwanted health issues.
Motion sickness medication
Some dogs and cats can become anxious or unwell during travel. Owners should consult their vet before departure if their pet has previously experienced travel sickness.
Pain relief or ongoing treatments
Pets with arthritis, chronic conditions or recent injuries may require ongoing medication while away. Owners should ensure they have an adequate supply and follow veterinary advice.
First-aid essentials
A basic pet first-aid kit can be useful for minor injuries and should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers and saline solution.
Digestive support
Changes in routine, food and environment can sometimes upset a pet's stomach. Owners may wish to discuss suitable digestive supplements or treatments with their vet before travelling.
In addition to medicine and first aid essentials, pet owners should ensure that their pets have ID tags, and they should also possess:
- Microchip information
- A copy of their pet's medical history & vaccination records
- Pet insurance policy details
- Emergency vet contact information
- Any required travel documentation
Agria Petinsure also recommends scheduling a veterinary check-up before any major trip, particularly for older pets or those with existing medical conditions.
"Being prepared not only helps keep pets safe but can also reduce the likelihood of unexpected vet costs while travelling," added Maeve McCluskey. "A well-stocked pet travel kit gives owners peace of mind and helps ensure everyone can enjoy their holiday."
For more information about protecting your pet, visit www.agria.ie/guides-and-advice
Press Contact:
Damien Hanley
Marketing Strategy Manager
press@agriapetinsure.ie
About Us:
Swedish owned Agria, the world's oldest specialist pet insurer, has been helping pets through illness and injury since 1890 and operates in Ireland as Agria Petinsure. With a reputation for reliability and customer-focused services, Agria Petinsure continues to innovate and deliver insurance solutions that meet the evolving needs of pets and pet owners.