Your Pets Daily - Staycation

Top tips for a dog-friendly staycation

Your Pets Daily Editor — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 07:14:54 +0000

Top tips for a dog-friendly staycation

By Harry Roberts Managing Director at My Favourite Cottages

Since the start of the pandemic, 3.2 million UK households have welcomed a new pet.

But now the UK has started to open up again, many dog owners have been looking to take their new family member on their first holiday.

In fact, according to a recent study 'dog-friendly holiday homes accumulated over 131,000 searches between June 2020 and May 2021, almost double the search volume of the previous year (73,530).

Here, Managing Director Harry Roberts at My Favourite Cottages offers his top tips on holidaying with man’s best friend to celebrate National Dog Day.

Plan ahead

Preparation is key when travelling with dogs. Research dog-friendly accommodations at your destination and ensure they have the right facilities for them.

Also check there are plenty of walks and trails available for you and your dog to enjoy. It’s also worth checking if they have any dog-friendly beaches nearby that allows them to roam freely.

Getting to grips with where you’re staying beforehand will certainly make life a lot easier when you’re there, plus it saves time and ensures you’re picking the perfect spot for your stay.

And before you leave, make sure you pack all the essentials such as a sturdy lead, harness, waste bags, identification tags, treats and pet food.

It's also a good idea to bring your pet's medical records along too, ensure they are microchipped and look into how far away you are from local vets and whether they offer emergency appointments should any health problems arise, or your pet gets lost far away from home.

While travelling

Sitting in a car for hours on end can be a tedious task for most of us, as it is our pets.

When travelling, check your pet has plenty of food and water for the journey and stop for regular breaks to allow them to replenish and go to the toilet.

Meanwhile, your pet's safety is paramount. Use a special seatbelt, or harness, to ensure your dog can't roam around the vehicle and distract you.

Another good option is a pet carrier which allows them to stand up and lie down comfortably.

Making the most of your stay

Remember your holiday is as much for your dog as it is for you.

Allow your dog to get to grips with their new environment, smells and sounds to allow them to feel safe and relaxed.

Kitting your holiday home out with their favourite toys, blankets and belongings, will help create a little sanctuary for them.

Give your pup plenty of attention and never leave them alone in your holiday home unattended, as new places are sure to make them feel anxious or uneasy.

Be cautious of letting your dog off the lead in busy areas unfamiliar to both of you, as you never know what dangers could be around the corner, be that of other animals, people or hazards.

And try and stick to a routine as much as possible, including set feed and walk times, as dogs are creatures of habit, after all.

Above all, have fun and enjoy your time away with your pup!

Charity advises against taking moggies on stay-cat-ations

Your Pets Daily Editor — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 14:19:13 +0000

Following the uptake in UK holidays and the increase in lockdown pets this year, Cats Protection is issuing advice on how to care for your cat while on holiday.

The leading feline welfare charity warns against taking your cat with you as it says cats in general find change difficult and are more likely to be content in their own environment.

It also says there's a risk that the cat might be tempted to escape or if the cat is provided outside access they may get lost in the unfamiliar area.

"Many cats often find journeys stressful, even if they don't necessarily show it, says Daniel Cummings, Cats Protection's Behaviour Officer. "They're territorial animals so the journey and the change in environment can be difficult for them."

The charity's warning comes after it took in a cat called Georgie last year, 12 years after she'd disappeared on a family camping holiday in Scotland.

Despite Georgie becoming a much-loved fixture around the campsite, she was still living the tough life of a stray before she was found, enduring the harsh winters out in the open as she scrounged for food.

Daniel Cummings advises that the best option for the cat is to get a sitter – either a friend, neighbour or professional cat sitter who can visit at least twice a day and make sure the pet is well fed and safe.

"The alternative is to book a cattery but before you make a decision, you'll need to visit and inspect it. You'll also need to ensure that your cat's vaccinations are up to date," says Daniel. "And remember, catteries do get booked up in advance so you will need to plan ahead."

More help and advice about how best to care for cats while on holiday can be found on Cats Protection's website here.

The top 10 places you can take your dog, from nights in a Haunted Hotel to Boutique Barges

Your Pets Daily Editor — Sun, 15 Aug 2021 08:05:02 +0000

The UK is once again fully open, so why leave your pup behind on your next adventure?

The UK dog population has ballooned over the past 18 months, with record numbers surpassing 12 million. With one dog for every five people, that's a lot of pooches to keep occupied. With the nation besotted by puppy love, there has never been a better time to embrace that and treat yourself and your pooch to an experience you'll never forget.

Now that restrictions on days out, overnight stays and dining have ended there are endless options for you to and your pooch to enjoy together. Burns Pet Nutrition, along with Dog Furiendly have sniffed out a top ten list of exiting adventures for you and your pooches to enjoy. To find out more information, visit www.burnspet.co.uk and www.dogfuriendly.com.

Spend the Night Together in Britain's Most Haunted Hotel 
Adelphi Hotel & Spa – Liverpool
hauntedrooms.co.uk/product/britannia-adelphi-hotel-liverpool

This hotel has been named as Britain's most haunted hotel by paranormal investigator Tom Slemen. While doing some talks in the hotel's Sefton Suite, he reported sightings of ghosts thought to be shipmen from the Titanic, including Captain Edward Smith.  

It's also been reported that the staff regularly see a grey lady in a Victorian style dress while pottering in the basement.  

While this may be a wonderfully spooky hotel, it's packed with 'rich history' and beautiful rooms for you to relax in. It's even welcomed many celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Bob Dylan.  

Up to two dogs are welcome to join you for; £10 per pooch per night; £10 refundable deposit applies.

Trek The Surrey Hills With Dog-Loving Llamas 
Merry Harriers – Surrey
merryharriers.com

Nestled away in the quiet village of Hambledon, you can find the Merry Harriers. A quirky country inn, complete with cosy accommodation, resident llamas and a deep love for our furry canines. 

You and your pooch will have plenty of fun together here, whether you're choosing to stay overnight in one of the cosy Shepherd Huts or pop in for a delicious meal and doggy dinner. 

Llama treks take place every day from the inn, where you can explore the Surrey Hills with an experienced guide. The Llamas are well-accustomed to doggy guests and some walks even include a picnic with a spread of classic British treats. 

Spend The Night Behind Bars With Your Criminal Canine 
Malmaison Oxford – Oxford
malmaison.com

 This former prison allows you to spend the night behind bars with your furry friend. Each room is packed with character and all the original prison features that date back to the 1800's. Not all of the rooms are prison cells so be sure to ask should you want to experience this unique stay.  

The interior is far from groggy bunk beds and buckets, in fact it's beautifully decorated, filled with funk and high-end trimmings.  

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to stay with you for £10 per night

Rest Your Paws By The Shores At A Dog Friendly Beach Hut 
Beachcroft Hotel - Bognor Regis 
beachcroft-hotel.co.uk

Snuggled by the sea in Felpham village, you can find the Beachcroft Hotel. This place is more than a classic-beach side hotel, it's also home to two luxury, dog friendly beach huts. This cosy accommodation is just a bone's throw away from the sea meaning you can enjoy pretty sea views from the moment you wake up. Of course, this also means plenty of beach walkies and seaside fun for your pooch. 

Canine companions are loved throughout their stay and this lovely hotel always goes above and beyond to ensure they have a great holiday too. On arrival your dog will get a luxury bed to rest those sleepy paws, their very own bandana, treats and a toy.  After a day filled with adventures, you can enjoy a delicious meal together at the hotel's restaurant with a dedicated doggie menu for the pooch! They'll even throw in a free doggy ice-cream which you can enjoy at a local ice-cream parlour in Bognor Regis. 

Wine and Dine Together in a Luxury Country House Hotel 
The Grove of Narberth - Pembrokeshire 
thegrove-narberth.co.uk
This country house hotel is squirreled at the foot of the Preseli Hills, providing a delightful slice of rural paradise. The Grove has six dog friendly cottages and suites available, each providing plenty of comfort. The hotel has a residential Labradoodle called Bronwen who is very welcoming and enthusiastic about visiting dogs and their owners. Doggy guests are provided with upcycled towels, blankets and special doggy treats on arrival. There's also an award-winning dog friendly restaurant on-site (3 AA Rosettes) where dog's can enjoy a fine dining menu of food from Burns Pet Nutrition

Sleep In a Dog Friendly Treehouse
West Lexham Treehouses – Norfolk
westlexham.org/stay/tree-houses/

If there's one dream we all shared as children – it's to have our very own treehouse. Well, move over Bart Simpson, because now our dreams have finally come true. 

These luxury treehouses are nestled within an enchanted forest in rural Norfolk. Each cabin is beautifully presented and nestled between the trees with 21 acres of woodland, meadows, ancient trees, lakes and formal gardens to explore. 

There are 7 tree-houses, in total each with their own character and charm. They sleep between two to six people. When you're not whiling away the hours listening to the bird song in the cabin, you can also enjoy wild swimming, a heated pool, and toasty campfires. 

Boutique Barge On London's Canal 
Boutique Barges - London 
Boutique Barges
Grab your trusty sea dog and swap a hotel or house for a boutique barge! This unique dog friendly accommodation has two boats available, each located in central London on Regent's Canal. Each boat provides the perfect city break in close proximity to dog friendly eating, drinking, shopping and entertainment. On-board you can find a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and other contemporary touches like modern technologies and toiletries. The barge comfortably sleeps up to 4 adults and 1 child with one well behaved pooch, making it ideal for a family trip, or a bit more spacious for a couple.

Rest Your Sleepy Paws In A Dog Friendly Hobbit Hole 
Hobbit Hideaway - Moray 
hobbithideaway.co.uk
Looking for a quirky staycation to enjoy with your furry hobbit? Then no further than this delightful Hobbit Hideaway in Moray, Scotland. Together you can enjoy the magic of middle earth within a peaceful valley at the foot of Ben Rinnes mountain in Moray. From here those staying can get out and enjoy walking or cycle trails among beautiful wildlife. 

From the moment you step through the wooden door, it will feel as though you are stepping into a storybook. Nope, it won't be Mr Baggins or Frodo to greet you but a wonderful eco-home lovingly made using locally sourced, renewable and recycled materials, including hand-crafted furniture! 

This place was designed for total relaxation. The electricity is sourced from 100% renewable energy, the water is sourced from natural springs and you can even pick your own fresh herbs, fruit and vegetables, when in season. There is free wifi available and it can accommodate up to 6 people. Oh and did we mention dogs go free? 

Enjoy A Dog Friendly Spa Break Together 
Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa - Peak District
ringwoodhallhotel.com

Ringwood Hall Hotel is a 19th Century Manor House located on the gateway to the Peak District. It's set amongst 6 acres of award-winning gardens, perfect for your pooch to frolic and play.  

This dog friendly spa break makes the top of the list due to their dedication to pampering you and your pooch. While you're enjoying a spa treatment, you can sign your pooch up to their very own tail-wagging 'Pampered Pooch Experience' in partnership with Georgina's Pet Sitting.  

Georgina's team will provide your pooch with an exercise walk on the beautiful grounds, a lavish shampoo massage bubble bath to help soothe and relax muscles a pedicure and paw soak, with a deep paw moisturising balm and an ear cleanse with a fragrance cologne finish. So now, you can enjoy luxury treatment and time to unwind without having to worry about your pooch missing out. 

Gypsy Caravan In The Scottish Borders 
Roulotte Retreat - Scottish Borders
roulotteretreat.com

How about a little Gypsy Caravan squirrelled away in the beautiful Scottish Borders? The Roulotte Retreat has one dog friendly caravan called the Rosa Bella where up to two dogs are welcome to stay for an additional fee of £10 per night.  

The interior styling has pretty deep gold, turquoise, ruby and garnet colouring throughout. It's complete with two bedrooms, a kitchen and a shower room. By day, the caravans are surrounded by wildflowers, meadows and birdsong. By night, you can snuggle your pooch by the fire-pit and gaze at the stars under the dark skies. 

Your Pets Daily - Staycation

Top tips for a dog-friendly staycation

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Charity advises against taking moggies on stay-cat-ations

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The top 10 places you can take your dog, from nights in a Haunted Hotel to Boutique Barges

The UK is once again fully open, so why leave your pup behind on your next adventure?

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