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Your dog may not be able to indulge in traditional chocolate, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to treat them this Easter. From tasty snacks designed specifically for pets to hard-wearing, seasonally-themed toys, Pet Hamper has got you - and your beloved animals - covered this year.

Can dogs eat chocolate?

First of all, a definitive answer to this common question: No, dogs should not eat chocolate.

The chocolate that humans eat contains theobromine which is poisonous to dogs. Symptoms can include vomiting and diarrhoea, hyperactivity, seizures and fits, heart problems or even death.

While we strongly encourage you to keep your chocolate away from your pets - and make sure all children and visitors understand the rules too - there’s no reason that your pet can’t join in the festivities in other ways.

From delicious snacks to loveable toys to grooming essentials, we’re here to help your furry friends safely join in the family fun.

Easter eggs for dogs

Our brand new Easter eggs look just like the real deal, but have been especially formulated to be kind to pets.

All the fun without the harmful ingredients, they’re free of cocoa and gluten and are instead made from the dog-friendly alternative ingredient carob.

Beautifully presented like any other Easter egg, now your dog can join in the family fun.

Rosewood Dog Easter Egg (£3.95)
https://pethamper.co.uk/rosewood-dog-easter-egg/

Easter activities for dogs

A easter egg or treat hunt is a great way to spoil your dog. Hiding treats around the home/garden and let your dog sniff them out!

Start with smaller treats ending with the special gift to complete the hunt! Here are some examples of what we would use.

Easter treats for dogs

Beyond the traditional Easter egg, we stock a full range of snacks that tick all the boxes: visually appealing, tasty and - best of all - healthy!

We now stock another Easter staple: Hot Cross Buns. Iced by hand and beautifully presented, these treats are made without yeast or raisins and only contain carefully selected ingredients that are perfect for all dogs - even those with sensitive stomachs and intolerances.

Life Of Riley – Easter Hot Cross Buns for Dogs (£7.95)
https://pethamper.co.uk/life-of-riley-easter-hot-cross-buns-for-dogs/

Suitable for any day of the year, but all the more fun at Easter, our crunchy, realistic carrot biscuits offer the best of both worlds. They’re packed with only the best ingredients for healthy, happy dogs, and the cheerful carrot shape (complete with tops) are an enjoyable way to get your pets involved in the Easter celebrations.

For the main course, we have a healthy and hearty lamb dinner. Our Lush Nosh Lamb complements fresh meat with vegetables, power seeds and superfoods to create a complete dog food suitable for adults and puppies alike.

For a lighter bite, we have Lamb Treats. With a similar recipe of fresh meat, veggies and goodies, they make for ideal tasty training treats.

Marleybones Lush Nosh Lamb (£3.80)
https://pethamper.co.uk/marleybones-lush-nosh-lamb/

Marleybones Lamb Treats (£5.95)
https://pethamper.co.uk/marleybones-lamb-treats/

For dessert, we have a delicious serving of carrot cake. These longer-lasting chews are entirely vegan, made with crunchy carrots and a hint of ginger. There’s no added sugar or nasties, and they’re presented in plastic-free packaging for a healthy treat that’s as kind to the planet as it is to your pet.

Denzel’s Carrot Cake Traybake (£3.00)
https://pethamper.co.uk/denzels-carrot-cake-traybake/

Easter toys, teddies and more

Beyond edible treats, we have a great selection of fun presents to gift to your dog this Easter.

Our toy range includes a chocolate bunny lookalike and a giant (37cm!) winking carrot. They’re adorable, they’re fun, they both contain squeakers and as well as being extra durable. they’re both machine washable, meaning they can be enjoyed over and over again.

FuzzYard Choc Bunny Easter Dog Toy (£8.95)
https://pethamper.co.uk/fuzzyard-easter-choc-bunny/

FuzzYard Winky Carrot Large Dog Toy (£9.95)
https://pethamper.co.uk/fuzzyard-winky-carrot-dog-toy/

Continuing the Easter and sunny springtime feel, we have rabbit toys in three fabulous and fun options. Our sniffer rabbit is the gentlest opinion - it’s not only the cutest bunny we’ve ever seen but also gives great snuggles.

Our Scrumplez Bunny is designed to be a little sturdier and is tough enough for gentle chewing, tugging and fetching.

Our rope bunnies, available in beautiful lilac and olive options, are designed to withstand the rigorous affections of chewers. Better still, soak them and freeze them and they’ll provide much-needed relief for your teething pups.

Rosewood Sniffer Rabbit (£7.95)
https://pethamper.co.uk/rosewood-sniffer-rabbit/

KONG Scrumplez Bunny (£11.95)
https://pethamper.co.uk/kong-scrumplez-bunny/

Rope Bunny Dog Toy (£9.95)
Lilac: https://pethamper.co.uk/rope-bunny-dog-toy-lilac/
Olive: https://pethamper.co.uk/rope-bunny-dog-toy-olive/

And for the dapper dog, our banadas are available in a range of designs. Dress them for the season in our Bugs Bunny or  cartoon carrots styles. They’re available in four sizes, from small to XL, and they’re hand-made from 100% cotton and fully washable.

Bugs Dog Bandana (£12.00)
https://pethamper.co.uk/bugs-dog-bandana/

Carrot Dog Bandana (£12.00)
https://pethamper.co.uk/carrot-dog-bandana/

Easter hampers for dogs

Whether you’re treating your own pet or you’re looking for the perfect gift for a friend, family member, customer or member of staff, our hand-picked hampers bring together all of the best Easter-themed items in beautiful, luxury packaging.

We’ve got two ready-made options: both the mini and the regular hamper are filled with a mix of tasty treats and Easter-themed toys that are suitable for all pups.

Or our bespoke hamper option allows you to fully personalise your gift - including your very own combination of snacks, toys and petcare essentials, your wrapping of choice (we have luxury gift bags and totes) and a personalised note for the perfect finishing touch.

Our hampers are lovingly picked and packed by our team and delivered to your door.

Mini Easter Dog Hamper (£25.00)
https://pethamper.co.uk/mini-easter-dog-hamper/

Easter Dog Hamper (£35.00)
https://pethamper.co.uk/easter-dog-hamper/

Introduction

Travelling with your furry friend is an exciting venture that requires lots of research. For many people, a holiday with their pet signals a peak point in the pet ownership journey where they can trust their pet and relax into the dynamic, looking forward to the endless adventures ahead.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway in the UK or are thinking of flying further afield and taking your pet abroad with you, planning is always important and can ensure your trip goes as smoothly and safely as possible.

With an insurance policy from Waggel, your pet is covered whilst they’re on holiday or travelling in a country within the EU Pet Travel Scheme for up to 90 days each year. It’s just one of the many added benefits of their Lifetime policies that help bring owners peace of mind. 

Pet-friendly hotel stays

So you’ve decided to take your pet on holiday with you, great news! But don’t forget, you’ll be packing for two so it’s important not to forget everything they need. Whilst lots of hotels are now dog-friendly, it’s unlikely they’ll include beds and toys. You’ll also need to work out how much food to take so your furry companion has plenty to chow down on.

Taking a pet on holiday isn’t limited to just dogs - cats are also welcome at many hotels both in the UK and abroad. Though this means not forgetting a litter box and familiar items to soothe your cat, especially if this is the first time they’ve travelled with you.

Fortunately, Pet Hamper is the perfect place to shop for all your pet travel essentials. From dog and cat beds to toys and treats, we’ve got you covered. Why not build your own hamper or gift one to a friend who’s travelling with their pet?

To ensure there are no hiccups on your trip, it’s best to take some time to research pet-friendly hotels. A quick call to the reception desk of your chosen hotel should give you all the information you need. It’s best to do this ahead of time rather than being stuck in a pickle during check-in when you find out your chosen hotel doesn’t accommodate pets.

Pet passports

A pet passport is a document that allows pets to enter different countries without having to be placed in quarantine. Whilst this once applied to pets in Great Britain, since Brexit, pet owners can no longer apply for or use pet passports. If your pet passport was issued in an EU country or Northern Ireland, you are still able to use it. Alternatively, if your pet passport was issued in Great Britain before 1st January 2021, you can legally still use it. 

If you don’t have a pet passport, don’t fret - the good news is that you and your pet can still travel together, you just need to ensure you follow the regulations and meet the criteria. These are as follows:

• Your pet is microchipped (this includes cats and dogs)
• Your pet is more than 12 weeks old
• They have a valid rabies vaccination 21 days prior to travel (for both cats and dogs)
• They have an Animal Health Certificate (if the pet passport is invalid)
• They have had tapeworm treatment upon return to the UK 

Great Britain is now listed as a Part 2 country in terms of travelling to Europe and Northern Ireland. This means that those wanting to travel to the EU or NI with their cats or dogs won’t be able to use a Great Britain-issued passport. Instead, you’ll need to obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). You can get these from your vet and will need one for each trip you wish to embark on.

An AHC has its own restrictions and criteria that must be strictly adhered to. These are as follows:

• An Animal Health Certificate is valid for one single trip. 
• New trips must be issued with additional AHCs for trips into Northern Ireland and the European Union.
• You must use your AHC within 10 days of it being issued.
• Once you have entered the EU or NI, your AHC is valid for 4 months, or until your pet’s rabies vaccination expires (whichever one comes first).
• This means you can spend up to 4 months in Europe or Northern Ireland and must return at the end of the 4 months
• The AHC can only be used in the EU and NI - to visit a country outside of the EU you must ensure you obtain the correct documentation
• The AHC only applies to non-commercial dogs and cats (or ferrets)
• You can use the AHC for a maximum of 5 pets.

If you’re travelling from Britain to a non-EU country, you’ll need to obtain an Export Health Certificate that checks your pet meets the requirements of the country you wish to enter. Every country has its own requirements which can be found on the gov.uk website. 

Pet Travel Scheme

The EU Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) allows pets to travel between certain countries without undergoing quarantine. To qualify, pets typically need a microchip for identification, a rabies vaccination followed by a waiting period and a pet passport or health certificate issued by a veterinarian. 

Some countries may also require a rabies titre test to demonstrate sufficient antibodies. Pets might need treatment for ticks and tapeworms and must travel using an approved route and transport method. Upon arrival, they may face additional entry requirements such as inspection by customs officials. This scheme facilitates international pet travel while ensuring health standards are maintained.

The Pet Travel Scheme has made it easier for pet owners to travel internationally with their furry companions while ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to prevent the spread of diseases like rabies. However, as pet owners, we encourage you to familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of both the country you’re travelling from and the country you’re travelling to, as regulations can vary.

Pet travel insurance

Pet travel insurance is vital for ensuring your pet's well-being during holidays and trips away. It essentially provides peace of mind by covering unexpected medical emergencies, accidental injuries and expenses related to lost or stolen pets. With a pet insurance policy in place, you can focus on enjoying your holiday knowing your pet's veterinary bills are covered, even if you're travelling abroad and jetting off multiple times throughout the year.

Waggel's pet insurance offers comprehensive coverage, including protection for accidents, illnesses and third-party liability. Their Lifetime policies include travel cover, extending protection to trips in countries within the Pet Travel Scheme. Waggel also provides emergency treatment coverage abroad, ensuring your pet receives prompt medical care while travelling for up to 90 days each year.

Tips for travelling with pets

When travelling with pets, it's essential to ensure their comfort and safety. Crate training can help dogs to feel secure during travel and prevent them from roaming around the vehicle, which could be distracting or dangerous for both you and them. Introduce the crate gradually, using positive reinforcement to create a positive association. We also recommend investing in a secure harness or seatbelt designed for dogs to keep them safe while in the car.

For cats, getting them accustomed to their carrier and the car is crucial. Start by placing the carrier in a familiar and comfortable environment at home, allowing your cat to explore it at their own pace. Gradually introduce short car rides, offering treats and praise to create positive associations with the experience. Ensure the carrier is secure in the car and consider covering it with a blanket to provide a sense of security.

When staying in hotels with pets, research and choose pet-friendly accommodations in advance. Look for hotels that welcome pets and offer amenities such as pet beds, food bowls, and designated pet areas. Inform the hotel staff in advance about your pet's needs and any specific requirements.

Upon arrival, familiarise your pet with the new environment, keeping them on a lead or in their carrier when moving through common areas. Be respectful of hotel rules and policies regarding pets and clean up after your pet to maintain a positive relationship with the hotel staff and other guests.

Conclusion

When travelling with your pets, planning ahead and prioritising their comfort and safety is crucial. Start by crate training dogs and familiarising cats with carriers and car rides to reduce stress during travel. Invest in secure harnesses or seatbelts to ensure carriers are securely fastened in the car at all times.

To further safeguard your pet's well-being, consider Waggel Pet Insurance. Their comprehensive coverage offers peace of mind and travel protection - covering unexpected medical emergencies, accidents and treatment in countries within the Pet Travel Scheme for up to 90 days each year.

With Waggel, you can enjoy worry-free travel and get back to making long-lasting memories knowing that your furry friend is protected every step of the way.

Don’t forget to check the regulations for the country you wish to visit as the criteria are likely to vary from country to country. For a stress-free travel experience, find everything you need to know by visiting gov.uk

FAQs

Can I take my dog to France from the UK?

Yes, you can take your dog to France from the UK. However, your dog must be microchipped, have had a rabies vaccination with the appropriate waiting period and will need a pet passport or a health certificate from a vet. You must also ensure your dog has received tick and tapeworm treatment before travelling. As an owner, it is your responsibility to fulfil any entry requirements upon arrival in France.

What are the requirements for taking a dog to Spain?

The requirements for taking a dog to Spain are the same as travelling to France since they are both members of the EU Pet Travel Scheme. Your dog will need to have received a rabies vaccination and be microchipped. They’ll also need to have received parasite treatment to protect them from ticks and tapeworms. When arriving in Spain you’ll need the appropriate documentation such as a pet passport or health certificate if you’re travelling from the UK.

How much does a dog passport cost?

The cost of obtaining a pet passport (or health certificate) can vary depending on several factors, including the veterinarian's fees for the necessary vaccinations, microchipping and issuing the document itself. On average, you can expect to pay between £60 to £150 for the entire process.

Can I fly with my cat?

Yes, you can fly abroad with your cat from the UK. However, it's essential to check the specific requirements and regulations of the airline you plan to use, as well as the entry requirements of the destination country. Typically, you'll need to ensure your cat is microchipped and has received a rabies vaccination. You will also require a health certificate issued by a vet. Before you travel it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the airline's pet travel policies, including carrier specifications and any associated fees.