Since your dog is a very important member of the family, it makes sense to take them along with you on holiday. With the cost and effort of travelling abroad putting people off, it’s no surprise that many of us are keeping our feet firmly on the ground and opting for a much-needed staycation.
You may not be guaranteed sunshine and warm weather but you will get to visit some truly wonderful areas of the country alongside your furry friend. There are several things to remember, however, to ensure your dog has just as much of a good time as you.
In this guide, we’ve come up with everything you need to know, so you’re set to have a stress-free and memorable holiday experience.
Choosing your accommodation
Wherever you decide to stay, it’s important to check if your dog is welcome. There will likely be lots of pet-friendly places for you to visit and you can often filter these on booking sites. There may also be an additional fee to pay for your dog, but all accommodation is different.
Your best bet is to stay at a caravan or campsite as the majority of these will allow dogs on the grounds. You may just be required to keep them on a leash and dispose of waste properly.
If this isn’t really your thing, there are also hotels or holiday cottages that allow dogs. Confirm beforehand if you can bring your pet with you and always check to see the house rules, as your pet may not be allowed on the furniture or near food preparation areas.
What to take with you
The most important thing to take for your pup is a collar and name tag. In the event of them going missing and not knowing where they are, it allows them to be reunited with you since your contact details will be readily available.
You’ll need some dog leads as well, both long and short. When exploring wide and open spaces, a longer lead is perfectly fine but you also need a shorter length when visiting attractions or going in areas with small children and other dogs.
As your dog will be staying in an unfamiliar environment, it’s a good idea to bring some of their favourite items or toys along with you so that they feel more at home. Make sure to get a large dog bed and have your dog get used to it before taking it with you. This will become a familiar and comforting place for them to rest whilst on holiday.
How to get there
Depending on where you plan to visit, you may be required to travel long distances. If you decide to drive, your dog must be kept safe, either by wearing a harness and seatbelt or by using a crate secured in the car. Any journey lasting several hours should include regular stops en route to allow your dog to stretch their legs, drink some water, and go to the toilet.
If you need to use public transport, such as train or bus services, make sure dogs are allowed on. Most operators do let animals travel but they must remain on a leash at all times.
Photo by Ignacio Amenábar on Unsplash
