Choosing the right pet or dog friendly hotel when vacationing is essential to the enjoyment of your holiday. If your pet is safe, comfortable and made to feel welcome, then you will relax and enjoy your much needed holiday too. Taking a little time to research dog friendly hotels in the UK will ultimately be very worthwhile. Cats are much easier to accommodate generally and birds should be kept in their cages, but it is still wise to seek a pet friendly hotel to avoid an argument at check-in.
What to Expect From ‘Pets Welcome’ Hotels
While some dog friendly hotels in the UK require only that your dog or pet is on a leash and will fit in the elevator, other hotels are more picky. However, many places which promote themselves as ‘pets welcome hotels’ are run by animal lovers who go out of their way to welcome their four-legged guests. Complimentary food dishes and water bowls, dog beds, towels for rubbing down after beach walks, a ball, pet toys, chews and treats may all be provided by the best dog friendly places. However, all this goodwill does not come free. Many hotels add a surcharge per night if your pet is staying in the room with you. In the UK this may be £5-7.50 but in the USA it can exceed $50 per night! Having carpets cleaned and beds sprayed for fleas does incur additional cost to hotel owners who then cannot use the room for guests with asthma or allergies.
Try to choose a hotel with large grounds or close to the countryside for the best walks. Some city hotels have a dog walking area. Generally you will get a map showing nearby dog or pet friendly walks, or you can ask the concierge for some local advice. Walking services are offered by some top-notch hotels, which is a good idea if you are travelling on business and are likely to be away from the hotel all day. All dogs should be kept on a lead when not in the hotel room.
What to Avoid in ‘Dog Friendly’ Hotels
Some hotels and guest houses, whilst displaying a pet friendly sign, may insist your pet sleeps outside in a kennel which generally negates the point of travelling with your pet.
Doggy menus may be provided by some dog friendly places, but it is best to carry food with you if possible and keep your pet on its regular diet. A change of food or rich treats from the kitchen may only upset your pet, which will already be sensitive to the unfamiliar surroundings.
If possible, avoid a room above the ground floor. A ground floor room avoids having to use the stairs or share the lift with other guests and pets. It is far better to be within a few strides of the exit.
Dog Friendly Hotels in the UK
There are plenty of dog friendly hotels in the Lake District, Devon, Cornwall and in other popular walking areas. Surprisingly, one of the best dog friendly hotels in the UK is Travelodge. Their motel accommodation is basic, but more than adequate. The pet friendly rooms are always spacious and are often on the ground floor. You can select the pets option as an extra when booking online. There are some restrictions and a fee is charged per stay.
