June 22nd, 2022 by
It’s great to get and about over the summer. If you have a dog, you can include them too in your trips and holidays, you just need to suss out the dog-friendly locations, venues, and attractions. With the wide choice of pet-welcoming places on offer these days, you’ll never have to think of your beloved companion as a restriction; after all, they’re part of the family too!
Here are some dog-friendly places that you can all enjoy together:
Park Life
Yes, we know that you know that you can take dogs to the park – that’s dog ownership 101! What we’re talking about here is dog parks: parks specifically designed for dogs. Facilities may vary, some will include equipment to play on or water to splash about in but they’re all enclosed, so no need to worry about your dog getting out onto a road or running away and they’re full of things to sniff and explore. They are a great way to socialise your dog with other dogs and you don’t have to worry about the non-dog owners you may encounter in an ordinary park who don’t appreciate your pup’s slobbery kisses! This website is a great way to find dog parks near you: https://www.dogparksnearme.co.uk/
Pups at the pool
Many dogs love water but they don’t have to be content with jumping in the duck pond or splashing in muddy puddles, they can go to the pool! There are lots of dog-specific swimming pools across the UK where you can book sessions for you and your dog. You may be familiar with hydrotherapy for dogs who have joint issues or are recovering from surgery, but perfectly healthy dogs can access and enjoy swimming in dog pools just for fun. Did you know that swimming can offer your dog mental stimulation, relieve stress, and provide a bonding experience for you and your pet? It’s also great for any pampered pooch that could benefit from losing a few pounds!
Dogs love to be beside the seaside too
Visits to the seaside in the summer are about as British as you get, after all we are an island nation! Busy coastal resorts are not always the best places for dogs, and many don’t allow dogs on the beach in high season but there are still lots of quieter beaches that are very dog friendly – just do a little research. They tend to attract lots of other dog owners, so there are plenty of others to socialise with (get there early if your dog is nervous and you may well have the beach to yourself). Dog-friendly beaches have great expanses of space to run around in and play, the sea to splash in, and plenty of opportunities for digging and burying – what more could a dog want? Devon, Cornwall and wales all have some amazing dog-friendly beaches!
Some solitary space
Lots of dogs love to socialise with others but it’s not appropriate for all. If your dog is nervous about or reactive to other dogs, letting them off the lead in a park or a beach is most likely not going to be appropriate, but you may be worried that they’re missing out on being able to run freely and play. An off-lead area is perfect for any dog that wants to run around in a safe space without having to contend with other dogs. Most areas have them and you can hire them for your exclusive use. They’re also really useful for training your dog on recall and other good outdoor behaviours. For some gradual socialisation, why not invite a friend and their dog?
Doggie socials
Doggie socials are opportunities for lots of dogs and their owners to get together. These can be as informal as a group getting together at the local park or an organised event such as Big Dog Walk which is like a dog festival that takes place in locations across the country. Many organisers have groups on social media that you can join to get involved.
Canine-cations!
Holidaying here in the UK has never been more popular and we have some amazing destinations just a car journey away. This includes a host of dog-friendly accommodations, from campsites to luxury cottages. Fancy something a little quirkier? You can stay in a treehouse, a bus, or even a converted combine harvester – all with your dog! (See https://www.quirkyaccom.com/dog-friendly-holidays).
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