So, you’re completely organised, ready and waiting for the days to pass until you are all off on your holidays. You’ve thought of everything you may need and are probably packing the kitchen sink too…..but have you given as much consideration to your pet’s needs on this annual jaunt? It just wouldn’t be a proper family holiday without the most beloved member….
Paddy – My Happy Hound!
Many holiday cottage companies offer dog-friendly cottages across Britain and if you are going to stay in one of them, why not take a look at our checklist for a happy holiday with your pooch?
With dogs in tow, you can enjoy the long nature walks here in Norfolk or along the coastline, as well as being welcomed in many pubs for a well earned pie and a pint after all that hard work!
Walkies…
There are some restrictions in place for walking dogs on popular Norfolk beaches from May to end of September. However, you only have to walk a little to either side of popular beaches and the restrictions are lifted. Areas where dogs must be kept on leads, or where they are banned entirely, are clearly signposted.
Restrictions apply on parts of the following beaches from 1 May to 30 September:
Bacton, Cromer, Mundesley, Overstrand, Sea Palling, Sheringham, Walcott and West Runton.
Brancaster Beach & Harbour – Restrictions may apply: Dogs – Under control at all times on the beach; not on Scolt Head Island mid-April – mid-August. Dog-free area on
Brancaster Beach, West of golf clubhouse May – September.
Many of the National Trust beaches welcome dogs all year round. There are also a small number of beaches where there are restrictions in place during busy or sensitive seasons for breeding wildlife.
Running Free…..
Top tips…
Thoroughly research the area where you are staying for suitable walks and activities – the local tourist information centre is a good place to start.
Familiarise yourself with your cottages policy on dogs – are they allowed upstairs?
Make sure about the number of dogs allowed in your cottage.
Research vets in the area, print out their details to take with you and put local vet’s number in your mobile.
Is your dog insured?
Dog ID tags up to date? Consider an extra tag with holiday accommodation details on.
Microchip details up to date?
Brush up your dog’s basic obedience. Your neighbours won’t appreciate a bad tempered dog and neither will the cottage owners! You will, of course, want to come back next year….
Kitchen Sink Plus…..
Don’t forget to pack all the essentials for your pampered pooch!
Leads and collars.
Food – weigh out your dogs food into individual bags for each day, so that you only take what you need.
Medication.
Food and water bowls.
First aid kit.
Travel crate or dog bed.
Grooming equipment – to de-sand Fido at the end of a long day on the beach.
Blankets and toys.
Portable water bowl for walks.
Poo bags – lots of them!
Last but not least….
Don’t leave your dog in a car without good ventilation and shade – hot cars can kill, obviously.
Please clear up dog waste and dispose of it sensibly, obviously.
Failure to comply with Local Council dog restrictions could incur a fine of up to £1000, yikes!
Fi Woolcock, www.kettcountrycottages.co.uk