What Would You Do if Your Dog Got Sick on Holiday?

If you’re vacationing with your pet this summer, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) recommends familiarizing yourself with the out-of-hours emergency arrangements at a local veterinary practice before you depart.

Veterinary surgeons in the UK are obligated by RCVS guidelines to ensure provision for out-of-hours emergency veterinary treatment, a commitment recently reaffirmed. However, it’s crucial for pet owners to understand what steps to take and where to seek assistance in a veterinary emergency, especially when away from home.

“Although holidays for pets are typically filled with new and exciting places to explore, it’s important to be prepared in case of an emergency,” advises RCVS Vice-President Jerry Davies. “Prompt veterinary attention is vital if an emergency does occur, so owners need to plan ahead and know where to seek help.”

A convenient way for pet owners to locate nearby practices at UK holiday destinations is through the College’s free online ‘Find-a-Vet’ service (www.findavet.org.uk), searchable by town or postcode. This tool also indicates whether practices are accredited by the RCVS under its Practice Standards Scheme, promoting and maintaining the highest standards of veterinary care.

“Emergency veterinary treatment outside normal practice hours may vary, and it’s essential to understand the arrangements in advance,” says Jerry. “Practices may handle emergencies themselves, collaborate with other practices to extend coverage, or enlist dedicated emergency service providers.”

“Practices should transparently explain their out-of-hours arrangements, so it’s advisable to contact them beforehand for clarification,” he advises. “Your regular veterinary practice may also assist you in identifying a suitable practice at your holiday destination.”

Before embarking on your holiday, pet owners should keep in mind:

• Utilize www.findavet.org.uk to locate a local veterinary practice and inquire about its emergency protocols, or seek advice from your regular vet.
• Bring any necessary medications and usage instructions for your pet.
• Be prepared to transport your pet to the practice as it’s usually the best place for treatment.
• Provide the ‘holiday’ practice with your pet’s clinical records and your regular vet’s contact details.
• Be aware that emergency treatments outside normal hours may incur additional costs, and vets must obtain consent for non-emergency treatments.
• Even if your pet is under the care of a friend or pet-sitter, confirm with your regular practice that their emergency arrangements remain unchanged.