It is with joy that I write a piece about pet friendly holidays in the UK for Pets Bureau, a fabulous and highly regarded website for pet owners. My name is Tiffany and I myself am the owner of two dogs. I currently manage a website named Pawlets , that was bought about due to a chain of circumstances. I relocated to Leeds during 2010, a homeowner, I decided to rent out my house, and find somewhere to let in Leeds. I had no idea how difficult this would be. My dogs are well trained, never left unattended. I work from home, so there seemed no reason to worry that I may not find a place for us to reside. However, I was repeatedly turned away by landlords and letting agents, purely because they would not allow pets.
So many people are losing their homes due to debt, resorting to the rental market. And after research I established that the Rescue Centres in the UK are overburdened with this influx of pet surrender. We must remember that not all pets looking for adoption are unwanted. The situation is also to do with a lack of pet friendly rental property.
Initially I created Pawlets specifically for pet owners, seeking pet friendly lets. Unfortunately, after relentless pleading with landlords and agents, I began to realise this was a problem that I could not resolve overnight. With more people turning to rental homes, unable to find mortgages or due to a change in their circumstances, landlords can pick and choose.
But during my research I discovered that more and more holidays are now allowing pets. Realising that due to our current economy, it is better for business to be pet friendly. Most hotel chains now allow dogs, and each has their own pet policy. This is good news as there are others in my position that likes to have short breaks throughout the year. To book a last minute get away and take their dogs along to explore the stunning landscape and beaches in the United Kingdom. And you will find most holidays do offer short breaks too, and are open all year round.
For me the pleasure of seeing my dogs enjoy boundless freedom. Exploring new places and getting lost in time is all part of the journey. It would not be the same without them. And whilst I enjoy my own company, the thought of going away by myself, is not something I would benefit from. I would miss my woofs, and spend most of the time feeling guilty that I was not sharing the great outdoors with them by my side.
Whether we choose self-catering accommodation, bed and breakfasts, guest houses or hotels. I have discovered that there is a huge choice of holidays available in the UK to suit all pockets and requirements. Caravan and boating holidays prove so popular too! However with holiday parks and camp sites, pet owners should take into consideration, dogs must be kept on their leads at all times. And I find that it is mostly young families that choose parks as an option for their pet friendly stay.
We then have to choose what type of pet friendly holidays in the UK, we are looking for. Not everybody wants a beach retreat. Take the Lake District or The Cotswolds in Gloucestershire for example. Such places of astounding beauty, offering breath-taking views of natural beauty. And I have noticed that particularly popular for 2012, are log cabins set in forest locations. A perfect pet friendly break, where you can find cabin stays in most parts of the United Kingdom.
Please note it is so important to research the area before you leave on your travels. To first establish pubs and outings where pets are allowed. To ensure that the beach allows you to take your dogs along too. Many beaches are not pet friendly, and I know of holiday makers who have arrived at their destination with disappointment. It is a known fact that some places in the United Kingdom are more geared towards pet owners.
When you go on your pet friendly holidays, please ensure you do not leave your dogs in the car in the heat. So many pets die each year due to irresponsible owners, assuming a few minutes left in the sun is acceptable, it simply is not. And whilst your dog may seem ok, exposure to heat puts a strain on their heart, and can make them feel unwell for days to follow.
Always provide shade and water for your dogs during your break. Give them the option of choosing their own comfort zone. Your pets may not enjoy direct sunlight as much as you do. Please always carry water for your pets, and don’t forget a drinking vessel! And we must always remember to tidy up after our pets. Even when nobody is watching! This is so important. There is nothing worse than seeing irresponsible pet owners who leave their dog poo behind for somebody else to clear up! This contributes to the reason a lot of public footpaths and beaches will not allow dogs.
With the internet offering such an extensive range of information, you can Google for pet friendly beaches and places of interest for pet owners, in the UK. There are quite a few helpful websites offering some great information about this. And also, please do let your inn keepers and proprietors know you are taking your pets along, so that they can plan your stay for your needs. I recently heard of a story where a lady turned up with her pet, only to find that the holiday cottage no longer allowed dogs. She returned home disappointed. Had she spoke with them first she could have made alternative arrangements.
Please ensure your pets behave themselves whilst you are away. We as pet owners should lead by example and make Great Britain a pet friendly nation. Poor pet owners slow down our progress. I believe that there should be no restrictions to where we can take our pets. They are our companions, so why should they miss out! Our dogs should be friendly and well-adjusted, to mix with other pets. If you are unsure how your dog will behave, please use a muzzle. Pet owners should not be afraid of you. Our dogs must be sociable, and trained to respect others. Keep your dog on a lead in public places. Take responsibility for your pet’s good manners!
Enjoy your pets, enjoy your holidays and make the most of what the United Kingdom has to offer for pet owners. There are heaps of places for you to explore on your pet friendly breaks.
And for landlords, please consider these facts. Pet owners are more likely to rent your property for longer, due to the fact they appreciate finding a pet friendly home. You can charge a higher bond to cover yourself against damage. Pets often make less mess than children! You are doing your bit for animal welfare and rescue in the UK. You can specify your pet policy. Perhaps you will allow one cat, or two dogs. Do you have enough land to provide room for a stable or small holding? There are lots of options, for landlords to consider. Finally, generally speaking, most pet owners are very nice people, so do deserve a chance. We still have our section on Pawlets for landlords to add their details, make good use of it as it is free to add rental property.
Tiffany from Pawlets
