The Joy of a Dog-Friendly Holiday

Who wants to leave their best mate behind? For many of us, our dogs are family—and the idea of heading off on holiday while they’re left in kennels or with sitters just doesn’t sit right. The good news? With a bit of planning, your dog can be right there with you, sniffing out new adventures and making unforgettable memories.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know: from getting ready and travelling safely, to enjoying your destination and keeping your pooch happy and healthy every step of the way. Let’s get packing!

Before You Go: The Planning Paw-trol

Finding Your Perfect Pad & Place

Not all “dog-friendly” stays are created equal!
Research, research, research: Some places only accept small breeds, others charge extra, or have restrictions on where dogs can go. Always read the fine print.

Where to stay: Think holiday cottages with enclosed gardens, dog-welcoming hotels with pampering perks, or campsites where your pup can sniff freely.
Where to go: Dogs love sandy beaches (just check for seasonal bans), woodland walks, and national parks packed with scents and sights.

Health Check & Paperwork Prep

Vet visit: Make sure vaccinations (especially kennel cough) are current.

Parasite protection: Fleas, ticks, and worms are a bigger issue in rural and wooded areas—ask your vet what’s needed.
Emergency contacts: Save the details of a local vet near your holiday spot—better to be safe than scrambling later.
Medical kit: Bring any regular meds, a copy of vet records, a tick remover, paw balm, and antiseptic wipes.

The Packing List for Pups

Food & bowls: Stick to their usual food, and bring enough for the trip. Travel bowls make feeding on the go easy.
Gear: Collar with an ID tag (include your mobile number), leads, and a comfy harness.
Home comforts: Their bed, favourite blanket, or a well-loved toy can ease any first-night jitters.
Practical bits: Towels for muddy paws, endless poo bags, and their crate if that’s their safe space.

Entertainment: Don’t forget some toys for downtime at your base.

On the Move: The Journey Itself

Car Travel – Safety First!
Secure your dog: It’s the law (Highway Code Rule 57)! Use a seatbelt harness, boot guard, or crate.
Comfort: Keep the car well ventilated and pack a familiar blanket or toy.
Regular breaks: Plan stops every 1–2 hours for toilet breaks, water, and a leg stretch.
Car Alert! Never, ever leave your dog alone in a hot car—even for a minute.

Public Transport (Train/Bus/Ferry)

Check rules: Every company has its own pet policy—check size limits, fees, and whether muzzles are required.
Practice: Take some short trips beforehand to get your dog used to the sounds and movement.

Flying with Fido (Quick Note)

Flying can be very stressful for dogs and isn’t ideal for standard holidays. Unless it's essential (e.g. moving abroad), it's best avoided.

Holiday Mode: Arriving & Enjoying Your Stay

Settling In

Explore on lead: Let your dog sniff around the new place calmly and safely.
Set up camp: Create a comfy spot with their bed or crate.
Stick to routine: Feed and walk your dog at the usual times to give them stability.

Exploring the Area

Dog-friendly fun: Look up local walks, pubs, and cafes that welcome four-legged guests.
Respect the rules: Keep your dog on a lead where required, and pay attention to local signs.
The countryside code: Especially important near livestock—always leash your dog around sheep or cows.

Staying Safe Outdoors

Supervise: Keep an eye out for hazards like cliffs, busy roads, or open water.
Be aware: Know the local risks—poisonous plants, stinging insects, or fast-flowing rivers.
Prevention: Stay on top of flea and tick protection, especially in rural areas.

Top Tips & The “Don’t Forgets”

Pack more water and poo bags than you think you'll need. Trust us.
Don’t force your dog into new situations—respect their comfort zones.
Be a great pet ambassador: clean up, keep control, and be mindful of others.
Save your emergency vet details somewhere accessible on your phone.

Happy Memories Await!

Taking your dog on holiday is a little more work—but it’s so worth it. With some thoughtful planning, you can enjoy stress-free days exploring new places, sharing picnics, and snuggling up together after a big walk.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab the lead, pack the biscuits, and hit the road. Your next great dog-friendly adventure is just around the corner.

Got a great tip or a favourite dog-friendly spot? Share your photos and stories in the comments – we’d love to hear them!

Join the K9 Leisure Club family and give your dog the experience they deserve!

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