Holidays for Dogs

Dogs holidays covers two main types of holidays for dogs i.e. temporary dog accommodation, in dog kennels or dog hotels, whilst the owners are on holiday – and dogs going away on dog holidays with their owners.

If it is not possible to take the family dog on holiday with you, first considerations may be to see if a member of the family, or a family friend, or even a dog sitter, could take care of your beloved pet whilst you are away. If this is a possibility, ideally, the animal carer would abide in your home, the pet’s own home, whilst you are away – or take the dog to their home for a dog’s holiday. Either way, the relative, or friend, or dog sitter, would need to be around for most of the days and nights for the pooch. If the carer is out for much of the time, say in full time employment, it could be very stressful for your dog to be left for many hours at a time when you, its owners, are away on your vacation. If you are fortunate enough to have obliging neighbours, who could tend to your canine pet in its own home, and take it for regular walks each day, this could also be an option – although the dog may become very upset, and stressful, during the long nights on its own – particularly if you have a strong bond with your dog. (It is more usual for cats to be looked after in this manner – as they are, generally, much more independent creatures – although many people, usually with several cats, employ cat sitters to live at the family home in the family’s absence).

Holiday boarding kennels for dogs thrive in their thousands and can be found in most areas. Just like accommodation for human beings, holiday dog kennels can be very different in many ways - and charges may differ considerably. As you would expect, the more luxurious the dog kennels, the more you are likely to have to pay. Check out certain criteria like the amount of space that your special pet would be allocated, are all the enclosures just large enough for one dog? (or do they sometimes put more than one dog in a kennel)? does the boarding kennels have a play yard? do the kennel maids/masters take the dogs for any walks? does the kennel provide dog food for the dogs on holiday in their establishment? – or do they expect you to provide the food? Try and do a tour of the kennels before making a decision for the dog’s holiday.

Apart from dog boarding kennels, luxury dog hotels are also now springing up. Some of these special holiday homes for dogs have a facility for fetching dogs from owners - to take them to their special dog hotels.

If you are leaving your dog in pet accommodation, try and leave a favourite toy, ball and/or his/her special blanket.

Taking your dog on holiday – can either be an absolute joy - or something that can easily turn into a nightmare. If your dog is accustomed to going on holidays with the family, or just generally a well travelled dog, you will already be aware of your dog’s likely behaviour while he/she is away with you. If this is the first holiday for your dog, you may not be prepared for a change of personality which could arise – owing to the pet being in unfamiliar surroundings and sensing different smells. You may overlook to take crucial items which are necessary to have with you on dogs holidays. Do not forget to take the dog’s lead. This is crucial even if your pet is normally very well behaved – and permits you to enter certain bars and eating establishments with the dog. Fill a plastic bottle or thermal flask with cold water – and remember to take the dog’s bowl – and provide plenty of opportunities for the dog to have a drink. Do not forget to take plenty of old towels – especially if your holiday is near a lake or at the seaside. Remember to take a ball – and possibly a well-loved dog toy. If your dog is on medication, do not forget to take this with you. You may also feel you need to take a dog brush.

There are special dog walking holidays, which cater especially for treks with dogs. Some ferry companies even permit dogs to travel free on their ferries - to certain places which cater for dog walking holidays.

Pet friendly holidays, or dog friendly holidays, can easily be sought out. Many bed and breakfast establishments, caravan parks, camp sites, holiday homes and hotels permit (and often encourage) persons with dogs. Some of these holiday venues offer assistance for dogs for disabled guests. Guide dogs for the blind are particularly very welcome - at many hotels and boarding houses which cater for families, or individuals, with dogs on holiday.

With regards to canine animals who need to remain in the family home, or stay at the houses of carers, or live in temporary boarding kennels, or dog hotels, or other holiday dog accommodation, - in order for a family not to find themselves returning to a very forlorn creature, it is vital that every step has been covered, in advance, for the best possible welfare of the dog whilst they are away. It helps to stop him/her pining for his/her owners - if the pooch has been having a good time on his/her own, special dogs holiday.

And a message to the owners of dogs on holiday, please try your best to remain tolerant and understanding. You are very privileged to be on a holiday with man’s best friends.

And finally, a message to all dogs who are going on a dogs holidays with their owners, - please try to do all the right things on your doggy holiday - and you just may find yourself going along again next year.