Struggling to find dog-friendly holiday destinations? It’s always sad to leave your beloved pet behind, even if you’re facing the excitement of going on holiday. It not only means saying goodbye for a week or two but also finding someone to look after them or kennels for while you’re away. It’s much nicer to be able to take your doggie on holiday.
Of course, it takes a lot more planning, but pet travel is as rewarding for you as it is your pooch. As well as ensuring your pet is fit and well enough to travel, you need to find dog-friendly accommodation.
Here’s a selection of dog-friendly holiday destinations:
1. London, England
The UK capital is a great place for dog-friendly holidays. Although it is a massive built up city, one of the joys of London for people and pooches alike is the parks and common areas.
There is so much to see and do in London and it is quite easy to get around. Your dog is allowed on the Tube (London Underground) if you carry it on the escalators, and they are also allowed on buses.
London is also a great place to base yourself if you want to see more of England. Dogs are allowed on mainline trains which can connect you to major tourist areas of the country within a couple of hours.
2. Lorne Victoria, Australia
This fabulous resort town on the Great Ocean Road is a hugely popular destination. There’s a bit of a Mediterranean vibe and the scenery is gorgeous thanks to its location in the Great Otway National Park. Located on Loutit Bay, there’s a surfing beach and a beach dotted with rock pools. The town is attractive with plenty of entertainments.
There is pet-friendly accommodation in Lorne but please note, Australia has stricter pet travel and quarantine regulations than many other countries. You will need an import permit, veterinary certificates, and rabies blood tests and your pet may be quarantined for a minimum of 10 days with you being denied access.
3. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
This bike-friendly city is also doggie friendly. As well as dog-friendly accommodation, restaurants with outside dining areas usually allow pets on a leash and shops are usually amenable too, although it is always best to ask before entering.
As well as walkable streets, Amsterdam has beautiful attractions and parks including the most famous one, Vondelpark, and Oosterpark which is divided into two zones – one dog free, and the other where dogs are welcome. Public transport is also accessible with dogs allowed on trans, trains, buses, and the metro.
4. The Finger Lakes, New York, USA
We’re not talking New York City here but an area of 11 lakes in upstate New York. The freshwater lakes and the surrounding scenery are stunning and there are wonderful sights to see on walks with your pooch.
The area boasts micro-breweries and wineries which welcome dogs and because you’re walking not driving you can enjoy a tasting or two. The lakes’ marinas are also pet-friendly. Some of the best walks are through Glan State Park with its 19 waterfalls.
5. St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
You’ll need to be happy your dog can cope in the searing heat, but St. Croix is one of the most pet-friendly destinations in the Caribbean. You can either visit on a cruise – some ships welcome dogs – or you can fly and stay in dog-friendly accommodation on the island.
Many establishments are happy to welcome leashed dogs simply because most restaurants boast an outside dining area. For walks, you can’t beat the pristine beaches and shallow shore waters for your dog to splash about in.
Pet travel is easy as long as you choose a dog-friendly destination with welcoming accommodation.
Which one of these dog-friendly holiday destinations would you like to visit one day? Leave a comment below and let us know. Feel free to share other dog-friendly destinations.
Watch this space for updates in the Opinion category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
I’m a creative writer and digital marketer. I love sharing my perspective, tips and how-tos related to productivity, business and technology through writing. Connect with me on Twitter via @MarynMcdonnell.
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