For many people, dogs are not just pets they are part of the family. This means that when it comes to planning a getaway the idea of leaving your four-legged friend behind really isn’t an option. Fortunately, staying on your home turf is an incredibly dog-friendly way of going on holiday and there are plenty of destinations that are incredibly popular with dog owners. Amongst locations that rank highly with those looking to explore with their pup are Cornwall, the Peak District and, of course, the Lake District, which stands out for its welcoming scenic villages. With some careful planning and the right mindset, it is easier than you might think to plan a holiday that is as relaxing for your dog as it is for you.
Read on as we look at some of the things you should consider when taking a holiday with your dog.
Location
The first thing you need to consider when planning a holiday with your dog is the location. Staying in the UK is by far the easiest choice as there is no need for an Animal Health Certificate and all of the last-minute dashing around to get the issues within 10 days of your travel dates.
Whilst big cities can offer plenty of interesting things for humans to do, they are not great destinations for those wanting to bring their dog with them. You should therefore consider those locations with plenty of wide-open spaces where you can get outdoors, and all really enjoy your holiday. This is one of the reasons those destinations mentioned above are so popular.
Accommodation
Once you have settled on the area of the country you want to visit, you will need to find accommodation that suits your needs. Not all accommodation options are particularly welcoming of dogs, so do some research. A simple search, for example “Lake District dog friendly hotels” should bring up plenty of options for you to consider. Look for those places that go the extra mile for their four-legged guests with extras like designated dog friendly areas, and optional extras like dog beds and bowls on request.
Plan ahead for comfort and safety
If your dog isn’t used to longer car journeys that you may want to get them used to being in the car with short trips that will help them acclimatise. This will help to make the holiday more enjoyable for both you and your pet.
Pack anything that your dog might need during the holiday. This should include food and water bowls, leash and harness, pooh bags, bed, blanket or both, their favourite toy, and some treats. If they are on any medication don’t forget to pack this as well. It can be a good idea to ensure that your dog has an ID tag, in case they run off in a familiar location, and don’t forget to make sure their microchip information is up to date for the same reason.
Explore together
Countryside destinations offer a world of opportunities for dog-friendly fun. From challenging fell hikes to gentle lakeside paths, forest trails to coastal paths there really is something for every breed and energy level. Before you travel, take some time to look for local walks that would suit you and your dog.
Remember you should always keep your dog on a lead near livestock and don’t forget to follow any local guidelines. Many pubs and cafés are very welcoming to dogs, especially those with outdoor seating areas. It can be handy to make a list of places where you will be welcome, particularly if you might want a refreshment break whilst you are out walking.
Taking your dog on holiday is very achievable and enjoyable when you plan carefully and opt for dog-friendly places to stay and relax. So, pack some treats, grab a lead and make some fantastic memories.
