Following the introduction of simpler rules on taking pets abroad two years ago, the number of people taking their dogs, cats and even ferrets abroad, each micro chipped, vaccinated and holding their own pet passport, is increasing.
Ferry companies are reporting an increase in pet travel business. Last year DFDS Seaways transported 42,129 pets across their Eastern channel routes, a 14% year-on-year increase and another operator, LD Lines also reported a 29% increase in pet travel last year on its Portsmouth-Le Havre route.
In ski resorts accommodation providers are reported to be responding to the growing pet travel interest, and in some cases it can work out cheaper to take your pet with you, rather than pay for a kennels or cattery stay back home (and at peak times, sometimes having problems finding a space for your pet).
The biggest French accommodation provider Pierre & Vacances say that their family ethos of ‘playing together and staying together’ also extends to pets as long as they have a valid rabies certificate.
All Pierre & Vacances properties are mutt and cat-friendly with pet prices from 55€ (£44) per week (booked in advance) – likely to be anything from a third to a quarter of the cost of a week in a kennels or cattery. It does however cost to take your pet across the Channel, for example £16 to carry pets each way with Eurotunnel and £19 per carriage with DFDS Seaways, and there’s also pet passport costs and vaccinations to factor in.
Pierre & Vacances is currently offering a 20% discount on accommodation for early bookings. Deals include a week in the new four star Residence Atria-Prices in Avoriaz for which prices start from £632 (reduced from £790 saving 20%) based on four sharing a one bedroom apartment for 4/5 people (and their pet), arriving 12th December for 7 nights.
If you’re taking the cat or a ferret, remember to keep doors and windows closed.