Taking A Staycation With Your Dog: Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Staycations have been rising in popularity in recent years, and even more so thanks to the coronavirus pandemic. There are some things you may want to consider before setting off on your dream staycation with the pooch. 

From practicalities to what to pack, here are some top tips to help make your staycation with your dog a success. 

Choose A Suitable Location

It could help to find a staycation spot that is suitable for animals. While there are many options for pet-friendly staycations, not all resorts are equipped to house dogs. It could help to do some research into the different options. 

A good first step could be to decide where you want to go. Do you want a classic British beachside holiday or something more adventurous like hiking in the Scottish countryside? Once you have decided where to go, you could then start looking into the various accommodation options. 

Camping may be a good choice for you and your dog, provided that the campsite is pet friendly. Another good choice could be a holiday cottage or cabin. 

Pack Extra Of Everything

It may help to pack more than you think you may need, particularly if this is your first holiday with your dog. Extra blankets, towels and poo bags could come in handy during the journey and over your staycation. You may be able to find things you need while at your destination, but it can’t hurt to be prepared. 

If your dog is on a special diet or is a fussy eater, it could help to ensure that you have enough of their food packed to go as well. There may be opportunities to buy from local shops, but there is no guarantee they will stock your dog’s favorite food and treats.

Consider Your Dog’s Travel Comfort

If you are travelling a long distance, it could be a good idea to have a plan in place to ensure your dog’s comfort on the journey. You could take measures including regular stops for stretching both your and their legs, bathroom breaks and food and water where necessary.

If you have not been on a long-distance drive with your pooch before, it could be a good idea to have a test run so that you can see how your dog fares on a long drive. Some dogs may get anxious in cars, so it could help to be aware so that you can take measures to ensure they stay happy and relaxed. You could include the use of treats and toys as distractions and praise when they settle calmly. 

Make A List Of Important Information

Before setting off, it could be a good idea to have all of your paperwork in order. You could include reservations and contact details of vets in your destination so that you know where to go if something goes wrong and your dog becomes injured or unwell. 

It may also help to consider taking out dog insurance for your dog before you set off on your staycation adventure. Dog insurance may reduce costs if you need to take your dog to the vet in an emergency. You could compare dog insurance with Everypaw, which has a range of different levels of Lifetime cover to choose from to suit you and your pet.  It’s also recommended to make sure your dog’s microchip information up to date before you leave and that his collar has a tag with your contact details.

Prepare For Any Weather

You may be lucky and find that the weather is bright and beautiful for your entire staycation. It could still help ensure that you have all the things you need to enjoy your holiday come rain or shine. 

Taking an umbrella could help to keep you and your dog dry if it rains, as well as acting as a shield against the sun when it is out. It may also help ensure that you have plenty of water on hand for both you and your dog if you are lucky enough to get hot weather. 

It may also be a good idea to invest in some doggy sunscreen for the parts of their body that don’t have the protection of their fur coat. The ears, nose and any areas of thinning fur are all places that could potentially get sunburned. 

Find Some Dog-Friendly Activities

Before you set off, it could be a good idea to have some activities in mind for you and your dog to participate in. Activities like hiking, walks on the beach and visiting local landmarks could all be done in the company of your dog. If you would like to visit some local bars and restaurants, it may be a good idea to get in touch with some operators to see what their policies on dogs on the premises are. 

It could also be a good idea to do some research into the experiences of other dog owners when traveling with their pets at your destination. Some towns may welcome dogs with open arms, while others may be warier of allowing dogs inside.

Be Considerate Of Other Holiday Makers

It could help to do what you can to prevent your dog from being a nuisance to other holidaymakers. You may consider having doggy training sessions before you go to help ensure that your dog will be behaving well for the whole trip. 

Where possible, you may want to keep your dog quiet, particularly at night. This could pose problems for dogs who bark at sounds in the night so that some extra training could come in useful.

It may also help to clean up after you and your dog wherever you go. This is important dog owner etiquette regardless of your location.

Have Fun!

The most important thing to remember is to have fun during your staycation. This could be an excellent time to bond with your pup while exploring the wider world after months spent in lockdown. It may help take some time to just be with your dog, walking, exploring and playing.