Dog-Friendly Destinations
Not all ‘pet-friendly’ places are created equal. We only recommend spots where dogs are genuinely welcome — on the beach, in the pub, at the table. From the Cornish coast to the Scottish Highlands, we’ll show you where our precious pooches have been, what they thought and what to expect.
Recommended Places
Glengolly Pods, Thurso
Cosy glamping pods in Caithness with dog-friendly gardens and a small field on site. A great base for exploring the rugged north coast.
The Inn on The Tay, Grandtully
A welcoming bar and restaurant on the banks of the River Tay in Highland Perthshire. Dogs are very welcome in the bar area, making it a brilliant stop for a meal or a pint after a walk along the river.
Calmac Ferries
Dogs travel free on ferries but you must book a ticket. They can remain in your car, sit with you in one of the designated pet lounges, or take in the views from the outside seating areas. Assistance dogs will always be accommodated.
What to Pack for Your Dog
- travel water bowl
- lead and harness
- poo bags
- favourite toy
- vet records
- flea and tick treatment
- food and treats
- a basic first aid kit
- extra blankets
- drying towel.
It sounds like a lot, but once you’ve got a system it takes minutes.
Keep it in a clip lid box or travel organiser in the car so it’s always to hand and just top up the essentials when needed.
Tips for Long Drives
- regular stops every two hours including toilet breaks and water
- no big meals before you set off
- a familiar blanket for comfort
- a well-ventilated space — either a crate or a proper seatbelt harness.
- Dogs that travel well are made, not born. A little preparation goes a long way.
Travelling to Europe with Your Dog
Documents and Information Required for Travelling with Your Pet
Before You Travel
Microchip Your Pet
You must get your pet microchipped before, or at the same time as, their rabies vaccination. If you do not, they’ll need to be vaccinated again.
Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
Please note that you can no longer use a pet passport issued in Great Britain to enter the EU, you will now require an Animal Health Certificate. Within 10 days of your travel date, take your pet to an official vet who is permitted to sign and issue AHCs. Take proof of your pet’s microchipping date and vaccination history.
Your pet’s AHC will be valid for:
- 10 days after the issue date for entry into the EU or NI
- Onward travel within the EU or NI for 4 months after the date of issue
- Re-entry to GB for 4 months after the date of issue
Your pet will need a new AHC for each trip to the EU or NI.
Vaccinations
Proof of Rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment will be required. Pets must be at least 12 weeks old before they may be vaccinated against rabies for the purposes of pet travel.
You’ll need tapeworm treatment if you’re travelling to the EU or Northern Ireland. Tapeworm treatment must have been given no less than 24 hours and no more than 5 days (120 hours) before you arrive.
Hot Weather Tips
- never leave your dog in a parked car.
- walk early morning or evening and utilise access to water for swimming where safe and applicable.
- keep fresh water topped up constantly.
- watch for signs of heatstroke — excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy — and know where your nearest vet is.
- make sure they have access to a cool spot to lie down in the shade.
- freeze treats, carrots etc. to keep them cool and entertained.
Hot holidays are brilliant for dogs if done right.
