Pet-friendly holidays

Taking your dog out can be tricky sometimes, with many pubs, shops, cafés and restaurants not allowing dogs (except guide dogs) on the premises. Careful planning of your days out can avoid problems but what do you do if you want to take your pet on holiday with you? Here are a few tips and ideas for taking your pet on holiday.

Camping/caravanning

Camping and caravanning is very popular with dog owners - you have immediate access to the outdoors, for long walks and exercise, and many campsites are pet-friendly. It also means you don't have to worry about finding a pet-friendly hotel or B&B.

Boating

A canal boat or river cruising holiday is a great environment for a dog. They'll be outdoors most of the time, can run along the towpath if they get bored and are likely to make lots of friends - dogs are very popular on Britain's waterways!

Go abroad

The new Pet Passport system means taking your pet abroad is easier than ever. You do have to make sure you fulfil all the criteria for the country you're going to - having it microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, for example - but once that's done your pet can travel around the world with you. They also tend to be a bit more relaxed about pet-friendly accommodation on the continent and there are lots of options for holidays with your pet, from campsites and B&Bs to seafront hotels.

Get online

There are loads of useful websites and resources out there for finding pet-friendly accommodation, facilities and holiday packages. The key to a successful holiday with your pet is to plan ahead, whether you're taking your dog, cat or iguana on holiday with you!

Date: 26/01/2012