Your family holiday is a special time for everyone; whether you’re opting for a lavish and luxurious holiday abroad or are rekindling your love with one of the UK’s best holiday hotspots with a staycation, you’ll no doubt make memories that will last a lifetime. This year, if you’re arranging the latter, why not consider taking your beloved pet with you?

Staycations are on the increase in popularity due to the flexibility that they provide. Not only is the travelling often less gruelling for younger children, but there are some incredible locations across the country that offer the perfect backdrop for your next holiday. One of the perks of travelling within the country is that you can, more often than not, take your pet along with you! While small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs will have to be left behind, bringing your pooch along for the fun is becoming more accessible. However, before embarking on your holiday, it is essential that you are prepared. Below, we have included a list of things that you’ll need to consider before leaving to ensure that you don’t forget something vital after going home!

Accommodation
There are many destinations across the country that offer accommodation suited to your four-legged friend. However, it is important to double (or even triple!) check before booking that they are okay with you bringing along an extra companion. From holiday cottages and chalets to campsites and caravans, there are many options on offer for you here, so it is up to you to decide which would work best for your family. 

If you’re more of an outdoorsy family, a caravan or camping holiday will allow you to explore your surroundings. This is also a perfect option if you’re bringing your dog with you, as it allows them freedom and space while remaining closeby. If you’re opting for this, you will need to see what the restrictions are beforehand, as other campers may not be appreciative of your pet encroaching on their space!

For others, a holiday cottage is a wonderful option as it provides privacy as well as space, making it the perfect retreat for a relaxing holiday. In these instances, bring your dog’s bed and pet crate with you to ensure that they have some home comforts that they are familiar with.

Journey
Despite remaining within the country, staycations can often require long journeys with you all being cooped up in the back of your vehicle! If you’re travelling in hot weather, it is vital that you keep your dog hydrated, as the heat in the car can quickly cause your dog to overheat. For more information about how you can keep your dog safe in the sun, check out our blog here. Otherwise, schedule in regular pit-stops. Not only does this allow you a chance to stretch your legs and grab some refreshments, but your dog can spend some time outside, making the journey more enjoyable.

Their belongings
Before you leave home, it is important for you to think about what items your dog uses on a daily basis, as these will be needed for your trip. Extra food, their lead and any medication that they’re on are amongst the essentials, so load these into your pet crate to keep them all together. This way, they won’t get lost in the rest of the packing and are at hand in case you need them!

Day trips 
If you’re bringing your dog along with you on your holiday, you need to consider what sort of activities you’re going to be getting up to on days out. Looking at the websites of nearby attractions will let you know whether you can take your pooch with you and will allow you to create a loose itinerary of how you’re going to spend your time away.

If you’re looking for places to eat while away, pubs will have beer gardens that often allow dogs to visit, with some even offering water if it is warmer. If there are places that you need to visit over the duration of your holiday that your dog can’t come along too, consider bringing a crate or cage for them to sleep in while you’re away. This way, you minimise the chances of them destroying the holiday accommodation! If you’re considering doing this, you need to remember that your dog requires attention, so if you’re planning on frequently leaving them in your holiday property, think about leaving them with a family member or in a kennel instead!