School’s out for summer – which means it’s hopefully time to pack your bags and set off on holiday. And it wouldn’t be a family trip without your favourite furry friend. Here Star Paws columnist CATHERINE LAMB shares her top tips for holidaying with your hound… Here’s how to make sure you have the best petaway… • Pick a pet-friendly place. Make sure that where you are staying allows furry friends and check what their rules are. • Stick to their schedule. Keep to your pup’s regular walk, sleep and mealtimes to help them feel more relaxed. • Give them time to settle in. Let your dog explore their holiday home and take in all the new smells. • Bring home comforts. Take your canine companion’s favourite toy with you to help them feel at home. • Don’t leave them alone. Check your holiday home’s regulations on leaving pets unattended and only do so for a short period if your dog is comfortable with it. • Keep an eye on the weather. If it’s too hot, look for something fun to do indoors instead. • Ensure your dog is chipped. Make sure all your contact details are up-to-date and that your pooch is wearing an ID tag. • Find out where the nearest vet is. Save their contact number just in case your furry friend becomes unwell or has an accident. If you’re planning on camping with your furry friend, here are some key things you’ll need to know for your trip… • Prep them. Pitch your tent at home to get your pooch used to it. • Pick the perfect spot. Choose somewhere shaded and away from noise. • Take a tether. This will keep your pooch safe while you enjoy the fresh air. • Don’t leave them inside. Tents can heat up very quickly so find somewhere else to chill. Here’s everything you need to pack for your pooch… • Food • Water bottle • Food and water bowls • Treats • Poo bags • Towel • Collar, lead and ID tag • Bedding • Toys • Medication • Pet-friendly sun cream • First aid kit Travelling to Europe with your canine companion is hopefully about to get simpler. Under a new government scheme, they should be able to obtain a pet passport that’s valid for life. But a launch date has not yet been announced – so for now, you need to follow these steps: • Ensure your pet is microchipped • Get them vaccinated against rabies • Visit your vet to get an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) – you’ll need a new one for every trip • Take them to get tapeworm treatment Make sure to check the rules of the country you’re travelling to for any additional restrictions or requirements. Travelling can be stressful for our canine companions. Here are some tips for a safe and relaxing journey… • Make sure your pet is suitably restrained. This is a legal requirement and ensures their safety should an accident occur. • Do trial runs. If your furry friend isn’t used to travelling, take them out for short drives in the car and build it up gradually. • Keep the car cool. Ensure there’s plenty of ventilation in your vehicle, and use a sunshade to block the rays. • Take regular breaks. Plan plenty of pit stops so they can stretch their legs, go to the toilet and have a drink. • Don’t leave them in the car. Vehicles can get dangerously hot very quickly. Moto and Welcome Break service stations allow dogs indoors to keep them nice and cool. Here are some more ways your pooch can travel in style… Train Most train services allow our canine companions on board. If you’re looking for something special, your pooch can stay in a private room on the Caledonia Sleeper all the way from London to Scotland. Ferry Travel abroad in comfort and style with Irish Ferries. The firm has just launched its new Pet Den lounges, offering great sea views, seating and tables, water dispensers and leash hooks. LeShuttle Cross the Channel tunnel in the comfort of your own car using LeShuttle. Pets can travel for just £23 each way. Ensure your pooch is safe on your travels with these top buys… Thule Allax Dog Crate This crash-tested crate provides superior protection and comfort for hounds. It features a tension band to ensure it stays securely fastened while driving, and has a built-in lock for added security. It’s available in various sizes, prices start from £489.99 at thule.com Thule Cappy Designed for dogs on the move, this crash-tested harness is built to withstand the forces of sudden stops or collisions. It offers reliable protection by securing your pooch to the car’s seatbelt system, and allows them to move, sleep and stay comfortable throughout the trip. Prices start from £79.99 at thule.com