Are you planning your next getaway but not sure whether you should bring your four-legged friend along? Your dog could benefit from the holiday just as much as you do. They can help make your holiday even more enjoyable by providing company and extra fun! Here are five reasons to convince you that you definitely should bring your dog along on your next holiday. (Along with some planning tips and tricks!).

5 Reasons to Plan a Holiday With Your Dog

1. Provide Exploring Opportunities For Your Dog

We can all get a bit stir crazy at times, and dogs are no exception to this! It does both humans and dogs good to get a change of scenery and some fresh air. A new place to explore will engage your dog’s senses with new sights and smells. Holidays are a chance to discover new things, and it’s the same for your dog. They will love the adventure of experiencing new walks and sniffing out everything the destination has to offer!

2. No Worries About Leaving Your Dog Behind

Dogs are man's best friend! Leaving them behind when you go off on holiday can be upsetting, you probably spend your whole holiday missing them. Remembering those big puppy dog eyes as you left your companion behind at the shelter could ruin your holiday. By bringing your dog along on your trip, you won’t be worried about how your dog feels and whether they’re in good hands, as they’ll be with you having loads of fun!

3. There’s So Much Choice of Pet-Friendly Accommodation

You might currently feel held back from holidays with your furry friend as you believe pet-friendly accommodation is limited, but this is far from the truth! There are many pet-friendly cottages and hotels throughout the country. It won’t usually set you back much extra cost, if any at all!

4. You’ll See More Of The Outdoors

Dogs all need to be walked, some more than others; this means you will have no choice but to get outside during your trip. You’ll get to see more of the area, and you get more well deserved fresh air, which is proven to lower stress, blood pressure, heart rate and improve mood and mental health! You’ve got no excuse not to make the most of your holiday, as your dog needs exercise and the toilet breaks outdoors.

5. Dogs Help Reduce Stress

Suppose you experience anxious feelings whilst being away on holiday. In that case, your dog will bring comfort and make you feel right at home. Research shows that dogs can lower the stress hormone cortisol. Being around dogs also increases the feel-good hormone oxytocin! (The same hormone that bonds mothers to babies). 

Holidays can be stressful, in particular travelling. Your dog won’t experience this stress as you do; they’ll help keep you relaxed and grounded. They will be their usual happy selves throughout the holiday, so if you experience any moments of stress, you can stop for a cuddle with your furry friend!

Things to Consider When Planning a Holiday With Your Dog

The Accommodation Is Dog Friendly

You might not be able to get the luxury hotel you dream of and spend loads of time chilling in the spa. Albeit, there is a vast choice of gorgeous accommodation which is dog friendly! You always need to ensure the accommodation you’re booking is dog friendly before you go. You don’t want to end up in an awkward situation with nowhere to stay. Most places should state online; if not, give them a call and ask!

Ask as many questions as you can. Get in touch and ask the following;

• Is my dog allowed inside?

• Is a bed provided for my dog?

• Are food and water bowls provided?

• Do I need to pay extra to bring my dog?

As well as checking the accommodation, it would help if you researched any restaurants and cafes you want to visit to check they’re also dog friendly. It’s all about planning and organisation!

The Destination Is Suitable

It would be best to think about what your dog will enjoy whilst you’re away and make sure any activities you want to participate in are dog friendly. Check out the nearby walks to make sure there’s a suitable area for your furry companion to get their exercise! Here are some of the best dog-friendly walks in the UK.

You also need to think about how you will travel to your destination. If your dog doesn’t enjoy car journeys, you may want to choose somewhere close to home. You should always plan to stop at least once during long car journeys, allowing your dog to go to the toilet, stretch their energetic legs and burn off some energy!

Here are some of the main things to think about when choosing your holiday destination;

• Think about whether your dog will enjoy the area.

• Make sure any activities, sightseeing, or walks that you want to take part in are dog-friendly.

• Think about how you will travel to your destination.

Your Modes of Transport

Travelling could be the trickiest part of your holiday with your furry friend. Here are some of the main things you need to consider;

• As all responsible dog owners know, car journeys require regular pit stops. You need to ensure your dog stays hydrated, can go to the toilet, and burn off some steam.

• Never leave your dog alone in a car.

• Leave a window cracked open in hot weather, or use air conditioning. Never leave your dog in a hot car! Here’s some of the dangers of leaving your dog in a hot car; it can be critical.

• Travelling by plane can be stressful for dogs; some airlines don’t allow certain breeds to fly at all. Dog-friendly holidays are best off taken in the UK. But, don’t worry, as staycations can be just as amazing! We’ve got so much to see and do in the UK.

You Need to Pack Your Dog’s Essentials

After you’ve finished packing your suitcase, you need to think about what your dog will need throughout their travels! Here are some essentials you need to think about taking;

• Food and water bowls.

• Enough food for the trip (including their favourite treats)

• A collar and a lead

• Poo bags

• Their bed or a blanket

• Any medication, if needed

Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages In England

At Mellwaters Barn, we welcome dogs with open arms! We understand how much joy and comfort dogs bring, and we want you to feel right at home in our holiday cottages. We are located in Barnard Castle, a historic town located near North Yorkshire. Barnard Castle has many walks, museums, gardens, and of course; a castle! Just take a look at our dog policy, and if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.