Cash strapped families swapping overseas holidays for a UK break might be a good thing for many UK pets. Previously left in the care of family and friends, or checked-in to kennels and catteries, this summer many pets are holidaying with their owners.

To make this a winning solution for man and pet, Petplan has a few tips to help safe-guard your companion whilst on holiday and protect your pocket against any nasty surprises.

Save on boarding kennel or cattery fees

By not paying boarding fees and taking your pet on holiday you can save more than £200*, that’s plenty of sun cream or pina coladas but be absolutely sure you are prepared to care for your pet responsibly when you are holidaying. If not, opt for boarding, a homesitter or friends and family who will love and care for your pet correctly whilst you are away.

Your holiday accommodation
Staying with friends or relatives can be a cheap holiday, but not if your pooch decides to disembowel the sofa or chew your hostess’ Jimmy Choo’s. Check that your pet insurance automatically covers you for third party damages. Similarly, staying in pet friendly accommodation is a great option for UK breaks but you will still be liable for any damage to the property so check your pet insurance policy.

Consider the effect of travelling in hot weather

Leaving an animal in a vehicle in direct strong sunshine and/or high temperatures can be fatal. Research by Petplan, revealed that almost 8 in 10 (77%) of UK vets have treated dogs from the effects of being left in the car. So the message is simple – don’t.

House keys, accommodation details, water bowl and lead?

When you pack, don’t forget to pack for your pet too. Having to buy forgotten leads or pet food is an added expense that can be avoided.

Check your pet's vaccinations are up to date

Ensuring your pet is adequately protected from nasties they may pick up whilst on the road will save you time and money on your holiday, equally, be sure you don’t take any nasty guests with you. Before leaving home, check that your vaccinations, wormers and flea treatments are all up to date.

Update your micro-chip listing

If your pet's microchip number is registered on a database, update your pet's record with your holiday details before you travel. This could help in re-uniting you with your pet should it go missing while on holiday.

Forarmed is forewarned

Whether on the Costa del Sol or the Cornish coast, establish where your nearest veterinary surgery is before you leave home as this will save you time and money in the event of an emergency. Overseas holidaymakers should check with the local British Consulate in the country concerned.

Travelling overseas - insure against a hefty vet bill

If you and your pet are braving the euro or whooping it up on the US dollar, you will need to have a valid PET passport visit www.defra.gov.uk for more details.

Some insurance policies do not cover treatment or care whilst abroad. Ensure that you have read the fine-print carefully. Should you fail to have your pet insured you could be liable for a huge bill should your pet require a visit to the local vet.

Free entertainment

A holiday with a pet, especially a dog, is likely to mean swapping many paid for activities for freebies. Walking, cycling and playing frisbee with the dog are all activities that will benefit the health of the whole family, the pet and your wallet.

Simon Wheeler, Head of Marketing at Petplan says, “If you are organised, taking your pet on holiday can be a great way to cut the overall cost of the family holiday. By doing your homework before traveling, looking into your pet insurance policy and by following these simple guidelines you can avoid unnecessary stress and make the most of your holiday with your pet.”