How to be prepared when travelling with an assistance dog

Travelling with an assistance dog is very different to going on a dog friendly day trip or break, if it’s your first time travelling with an assistance dog or you want to make your business more accommodating for service animals, here are some of the ways you can be prepared.

Before going anywhere new, Guide Dogs UK advise taking your dog to the vet for a quick examination, just to be safe. This is especially useful if you need anything to support any travel insurance you may have taken out.

While away, be aware that your dog will be working in an unfamiliar environment and that might be less accessible than what either of you might be used to, though we all know that our service animals are consummate professionals, it is a good idea that you and any one you’re travelling with are aware that this might affect their behaviour. You’ll also be breaking both you and your dog’s usual routine, which can also mean having to do some extra planning.

If you’re going to be travelling for long periods of time, it is advised to avoid giving your dogs any salty snacks and to make sure there are opportunities for you both to rest and relieve yourselves. Most service stations have grassy areas and provide bins for disposing of dog mess, so take advantage of any stops you can. If you’re travelling by train, be sure to book assistance so that stations are aware that you may need breaks.

Where possible, you should always make sure to bring plastic bags, bottled water, portable bowls and a suitable bed for your dog.

For businesses, you can help support guests with service dogs by firstly understanding that these animals are not pets, they are working animals. You shouldn’t approach or pet a working dog, especially when it is wearing signage to indicate that it is working. You will also need to be aware that people have service dogs for a variety of different reasons and accommodate them accordingly. Some people will have a dog to help guide them because they are visually impaired, while others will have them to keep them calm due to anxiety or to warn them if they are going to have a seizure. If you have guests that require a service dog, make sure to provide plenty of places for them to exercise and relieve themselves, as well as access to water.

You can find out more about how to support visitors with service animals or how to best prepare for travelling with a service animal here.

Do you have a service animal? Will you be celebrating International Guide Dog Day on 26^th April?