This is a guest post
If you own a dog, then you’ll know that they’re part of the family. They’re just as important as your children and you love and care for them almost as much.
Therefore, when we head off on our annual family holidays, it seems a little mean to banish our pooches to the confines of a dog hotel or kennels. Do you really enjoy your holiday when you know your four-legged-loved-one is stuck cooped up in a kennel wondering when you’re coming back?
More and more families are opting to take their dog on holiday with them. Of course, it’s not without its challenges, from pet passports to microchips, flight restrictions and even more admin to organise, but most pet owners agree that it’s worth it.
So, what are the benefits of taking your dog on vacation? Here we’ll look at why all pet owners should take their dogs on holiday with them.
1. Amazing Photo Opportunities
There’s nothing better than looking back at old family photos and holiday snaps – click the link if you’re looking for a wall canvas – so, it makes sense that you have some truly unique pictures of your dog enjoying themselves, too!
Imagine your dog catching some rays along the French Riviera, chasing a ball along a sun-kissed beach, or living life to the full in the woods surrounding your holiday home. In short, you’ll be so pleased that you chose to capture those precious moments forever.
2. More Time to Bond Together
We all want to spend more time with our family, and that includes our dogs. Believe it or not, your dog feels the same! When you’re on holiday you’re spending unlimited amounts of time together, you’ll get to build on your relationship and give them all the love and attention that they deserve.
You don’t want to have the feeling of missing them by leaving them at home whilst you swan off on your break. Plus with them by your side you can always ensure they’re getting the best care.
3. Dogs Keep You Active
Whilst many us enjoy relaxing on holiday, perhaps we can sometimes spend a little too long lounging around the pool or drinking cocktails at the hotel bar, instead of exploring the surrounding area. However, with a dog in tow, we have a responsibility to make sure they get their exercise, which means daily walks.
By taking the dog out for a wander, you are obliged to explore and it gives you more of a sense of adventure. As you don’t know your way around, you don’t know what interesting places you might stumble across!
Your pup will be excited by all the new people and scents and you can get a more authentic experience of the culture and the local area, outside of your accommodation. In effect, doing this can also keep your fitness levels up, as many of us are prone to overindulging on holiday.
4. Your Dog Needs a Holiday Too
Okay, so your dog doesn’t have a 90-minute commute or deadlines to meet or bills to pay, but a change of scenery and providing them with nothing but leisure time is a great way for them to destress and relax.
Dogs can pick up on our moods, so if you’re not worrying about your targets for a couple of weeks and you’re much more relaxed, then they will be too.
Plus by heading off on holiday together, your dog will be able to enjoy experiences that might not be possible at home, from romping on dog-friendly beaches to enjoying hikes through the woods.
5. They’re a Great Holiday Companion!
Your dog won’t protest when you have a lie-in. They won’t be tired and irritable. They won’t spend hours on their phone. Plus they’re a great conversation starter. Dogs are great holiday companions!