Holidays are meant to be relaxing, but when you have pets at home, planning time away can quickly become a logistical challenge as travelling with pets is rarely easy. Whether it’s a long weekend in the Cotswolds or a two-week trip abroad, pet owners have to think carefully about who will look after their animals, how routines will be kept, and what options are truly suitable.
Here’s what to consider when making travel plans, and how Paw Pals West Oxfordshire can help with flexible, reliable pet care, including cat sitting, dog walking, and dog sitting services.
Travelling Abroad with Pets: What Are the Limitations?
Taking pets abroad is possible, but it’s rarely straightforward. Travel regulations have changed significantly in recent years, and it’s not just about having the right vaccinations. Depending on your destination, you may also need health certificates, tapeworm treatments, and approved transport carriers, all of which come with added costs and complexity.
For cats, international travel is particularly stressful. Long journeys, unfamiliar environments and disruption to their usual routine can cause anxiety or illness. Even dogs, who may travel more willingly, can struggle with flights or border controls.
For most owners, the easiest and kindest option is to arrange pet care at home, allowing their animals to stay in familiar surroundings while being professionally looked after.
Pet-Friendly Accommodation: The Pros and Pitfalls
Staying in the UK can make it easier to bring your dog along, but finding pet-friendly accommodation still has its limitations.
Many properties in the Cotswolds and West Oxfordshire label themselves as dog-friendly, but this often comes with restrictions:
- Pets may not be allowed on furniture or in bedrooms
- There may be additional fees or deposits for cleaning
- Some properties limit the number, breed or size of dogs
- Pets are often not allowed to be left alone in the property
For cats, the options are even narrower. Most self-catering lets and hotels won’t accept cats, and even if they do, cats are unlikely to settle well in a new environment.
That’s why using a cat sitting or dog sitting service is often the more practical solution, giving you peace of mind that your pets are cared for without the stress of relocating them.
Why Cats Prefer to Stay at Home
Cats are territorial animals that thrive on routine. Even the calmest feline can become unsettled by new smells, strange sounds and unfamiliar environments. Catteries are an option, but they can be overstimulating, and not all cats adapt well.
In-home cat sitting is a much gentler alternative preferred by many. Your cat stays in their own environment, with their usual food, litter tray and hiding spots. A professional and oftentimes known sitter visits daily to feed, clean, and provide companionship; keeping stress to a minimum while maintaining your cat’s normal routine.
How Paw Pals West Oxfordshire Can Help
At Paw Pals West Oxfordshire, we offer flexible, experienced pet care services across the region, including Witney, Burford, Woodstock, Enstone, Charlbury and Chipping Norton.
Our services include:
- Cat sitting: Home visits that follow your cat’s normal routine, including feeding, water changes, litter cleaning and attention
- Dog walking: One-to-one walks tailored to your dog’s age, fitness level and preferences
- Dog sitting: Daily or overnight care in your home for dogs who need more company or supervision
- Small pet care: Feeding, cleaning and companionship for rabbits, guinea pigs and other small animals
We never offer pack walks, and we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Every visit is based around your pet’s needs and temperament, whether that’s a gentle walk, playtime, or simply companionship while you’re away.
Why In-Home Pet Care Makes Travel Easier
When your pets are looked after at home, they avoid the stress of travel, unfamiliar places or long hours alone. Our pet care visits ensure:
- Feeding routines stay consistent
- Dogs get daily exercise through professional dog walking
- Cats receive attentive, low-stress cat sitting care
- Medication (if required) is administered correctly
- Your home is kept secure with regular check-ins
We also send regular updates for your peace of mind, so you can enjoy your trip knowing your pet is in safe hands.
Having pets doesn’t have to mean putting your travel plans on hold. With the right support, you can enjoy time away knowing that your cat or dog is safe, comfortable and cared for.