A cottage holiday is the perfect way to spend time with all your family but why not give your dog a holiday too?
Paying to keep your dog in a kennel whilst you enjoy your cottage holiday will not only be costly, but could also leave you worrying about your four-legged friend throughout your holiday experience.
Here at Independent Cottages we have over 500 dog-friendly holiday cottages to choose from throughout the UK so you can feel confident about bringing your dog along!
Here are some top tips for taking your dog on holiday:
Countryside location
As many holiday cottages are situated in the most scenic areas of the countryside, you will find there are plenty of picturesque walks on many different terrains that you and your dog can take advantage of. Perhaps you are bored of the same old walking route? Allow your dog to bound around new paths, fells and mountains where they can often be allowed to run free and experience what the countryside has to offer.
Top Tip: Before letting them off the lead check for any notice restrictions about wildlife and also for sheep and cattle grazing nearby as you wouldn’t want to disturb any of the local residents!
If you prefer to keep your dog under close supervision, you may want to make sure your holiday cottage has an enclosed garden to ensure that there’s no chance of your dog jumping any fences or escaping when you least expect it.
What are you looking to do during your break?
If you are planning a relaxing break including sightseeing and many visitor attractions you may want to consider whether taking your dog is a good idea in the first place. Often museums, stately homes and many indoor activities will not welcome dogs so it may be wise to choose more energetic and lively activities that your dog can enjoy too. Most holiday homes request that dogs are not left unattended at any time but some are able to recommend local kennels or offer outdoor kennel facilities themselves which may be suitable for dogs that are happy to be left in a kennel.
Inform the owner of the cottage
If you are planning to take your dog on your holiday, make sure you inform the owner at the point of booking. This will provide the opportunity for you to discuss any ‘house rules’ and allow the owner to prepare the cottage ready for your arrival. If you are looking to take more than one dog, confirm the exact number at the point of booking as many owners limit the number of dogs that are accepted. Making the owners aware of these things will also give them time to thoroughly clean the property before the next guests arrive. Although some cottages are pet-friendly there may be some rules that you must abide by, so read over the requirements before you book.
Things to take on your holiday with your dog
To help you get the most out of your holiday and ensure your dog is comfortable, spend a little time planning the things you should take away with you. A happy dog makes for a stress free holiday for you! A few suggestions are:
- Water and food bowls – most owners don’t like you using their best china!
- Bed – they also don’t like you letting them sleep on their beds!
- Travel bowl and water holder – great if you plan to do some long walks or day trips.
- Favourite toys – make sure your dog gets the most out of the holiday so pack a few favourites : Frisbee, ball, floating toys or comfort toys – they can all provide lots of entertainment for the whole family and keep your dog amused!
- Dog towels – some owners will provide them but take a couple of dog towels for drying off the dog and muddy paws.
- Throws – if you are worried about your dog rubbing against furniture, take a couple of throws with you to cover it.
- Basics – you will obviously take leads, poo bags, harnesses, medications, food etc but it may also be worth packing a few little extras such as an extra lead and tick remover.
- Don’t forget the treats – after all it is your dog’s holiday as well!
Independent Cottages has a vast range of holiday cottages throughout the UK that will allow your family pet to be a part of your holiday experience. Why not take a look at our cottages which allow dogs, there are hundreds to choose from!