Summer is approaching, and with it, the holiday departures. However, for dog owners, organizing a holiday can become a real headache. While some cruelly choose to leave their companion by the roadside, others simply prefer to stay at home. But these are not the only solutions that exist! For a few years now, “dog-friendly” places have been appearing, allowing you to go on holiday with your pooch.
So, how do you choose a suitable destination for a holiday with your dog? Which accommodations will accept your four-legged companion? How can you ensure their comfort and safety during the journey and stay? This complete guide will help you plan the perfect holiday with your dog!
Choosing a Suitable Destination for Your Holiday with Your Dog #
The first step in planning your holiday with your dog is to choose a suitable destination. Several criteria should be considered to ensure the well-being of your companion.
Climate and Environment: Choose a destination where the climate is favorable for your dog. Avoid regions that are too hot where they might suffer from the heat, especially if they are a brachycephalic breed. Destinations with green spaces, dog-friendly beaches, or hiking trails are ideal. This will offer you many activity possibilities for your holiday with your dog.
Available Activities: Check the available activities on site. Some destinations offer hiking trails, dog parks, or dog-friendly beaches. Make sure there will be enough activities for your dog to exercise and have fun.
Examples of Dog-Friendly Destinations #
In France, regions like Brittany, the Alps, or the Landes are particularly suitable. With many green spaces as far as the eye can see, these are perfect places for your dog to exercise during your holiday.
Abroad, countries like Italy, Germany, or the Netherlands are known for being welcoming to dogs.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations for a Holiday with Your Dog #
Finding accommodation that accepts dogs is crucial for a successful holiday. Here are some types of accommodations to consider and tips for finding them.
Hotels: Many hotels accept dogs, but it is essential to check the conditions. Some hotels charge an extra fee for pets. Use platforms like Booking.com or Hotels.com by filtering results for pet-friendly establishments.
Campsites: Camping is often an ideal option for holidays with a dog. Campsites offer large outdoor spaces where your dog can exercise. Check the specific rules of each campsite regarding dogs.
Vacation Rentals: Sites like Airbnb or Abritel offer many vacation rentals that accept pets. Look for properties with fenced gardens so your dog can enjoy the outdoors safely.
Preparing for the Journey #
The departure for a holiday can be stressful for your dog. Here are some tips to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Means of Transport:
- Car: If you are traveling by car, make sure your dog is well settled. Use a transport crate, a dog seat belt, or a separation net. Take regular breaks so your dog can stretch their legs and hydrate.
- Train: In France, dogs are accepted on trains. Check the conditions and fares on the SNCF website. Bring a muzzle if necessary and take their health record.
- Plane: If you are traveling by plane, inquire about the conditions for transporting animals with the airline. Some dogs can travel in the cabin, while others must go in the hold. Prepare your dog well in advance to minimize stress.
Tips for Comfort and Safety: Bring toys, a blanket, and treats to reassure your dog during the journey. Make sure they wear a tag with your contact details and consider using a GPS tracker.
Invoxia’s Minitailz: The GPS Tracker for a Peaceful Holiday with Your Dog #
No matter where you go on holiday (unless you always go to the same place), you and your dog will arrive in an unfamiliar place. This naturally increases the risk of them getting lost if they stray too far from you during an off-leash walk. In such situations, the only thing that can help you is your GPS tracker. With Minitailz, you can track their movements live, and activate “Live Tracking” if they escape.
Simply attached to their collar, Invoxia’s Minitailz offers you GPS tracking, complemented by comprehensive health and activity tracking. All without disturbing them: with its compact format, your dog won’t even feel their GPS tracker!
Holiday with Your Dog: Essentials to Bring #
Preparing your dog’s belongings is essential for everything to go smoothly during the holiday. Just like for you, it’s ideal to make a list in advance with all the necessary items to bring.
List of Essential Items:
- Food and Bowls: Bring enough food for the entire stay. You may not find their usual food where you are going. And to avoid unsettling them further, don’t forget their usual bowls.
- Bed and Blankets: To make them feel at home and help them get used to their new environment.
- Toys and Treats: To keep them occupied and reward them throughout your stay, as well as during the journeys.
- Care Products: Take the essentials, like their toothbrush and toothpaste, brush, shampoo, and towels if they are not provided in the accommodation.
Necessary Documents:
- Health Record
- Vaccination Certificates
- Passport
These documents may be requested in case of a check or a visit to the vet.
Activities to Do with Your Dog on Holiday #
Holidays are the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your dog. Here are some activity ideas to do together.
Hiking: Many hiking trails accept dogs. Make sure to follow local rules and keep your dog on a leash if necessary. Bring water and snacks for them. And of course, depending on the places, watch out for ticks and be prepared!
Dog-Friendly Beaches: Some beaches allow dogs to swim and run freely. Find out in advance to locate dog-friendly beaches and check the signs at the beach entrances. Always supervise your dog when they are in the water.
Parks and Canine Activities: Many parks have designated dog areas where they can run off-leash. Some regions also offer special activities like agility or obstacle courses.
Health and Well-Being of Your Dog During the Holiday #
Your dog’s health is paramount during the holiday. Here are some tips to avoid problems.
Avoiding Heatstroke: Never leave your dog in a hot car, even for a short time. Ensure they always have access to fresh water and find shaded areas for them to rest.
Protecting Against Parasites: Before leaving, make sure your dog is treated against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. To be even more protected, bring an appropriate repellent and regularly check their coat.
Finding a Vet on Site: Find out in advance about available vets in your holiday location. It’s always useful to have their contact details and opening hours in case of an emergency.
Going on holiday with your dog requires some organization, but with good preparation, these moments can become unforgettable. Choose a suitable destination, find welcoming accommodation, prepare the journey and your dog’s belongings, and plan activities so they can also enjoy the holiday. By taking these precautions, you will ensure a peaceful and enjoyable holiday for you and your four-legged companion. Enjoy every moment and create precious memories together.
For some, it is simply impossible to go on holiday with their dog. But for them too, there is a solution: the kennel. A great place when chosen well, where your dog can have a blast during your absence!
Have a great holiday with (or without) your dog!