Dog lovers who enjoy taking their pets on holiday have become all too accustomed to finding themselves and their pets staying in a bland hotel room, or even worse, in the sort of hotel room that looks as though dogs have stayed there! A new breed of hotel challenges the assumption that owners and pets should compromise when it comes to quality and standards. All of the following five establishments understand the importance of catering for your furry friend and are truly dog friendly hotels.
Evershot, Dorset – Summer Lodge
This luxurious country-house hotel is set in the picturesque Dorset countryside and has the distinction of having been designed by the author Thomas Hardy, better known as a famous author but originally trained as an architect. This award-winning establishment offers bathrobes, slippers, fresh-fruit platters, shortbread, Penhaligon toiletries and a choice of pillows in even its most basic room.
It comes as little surprise then to discover that our canine friends are treated with the same thoughtful consideration. Dogs are offered their own bed, complimentary food and water bowls and a choice of menu. A selection of walks have been mapped out to suit all doggy tastes, from seashore to woodland and towels are provided for those pets who enjoy a bracing swim or perhaps get caught out in a shower.
London – The Milestone Hotel
This fabulous hotel is set on the edge of Kensington Gardens with access to Hyde Park and close to Kensington Palace. Whilst you are sipping your complimentary champagne or green tea and instructing the butler on your requirements, your dog has some tricky decisions to make. A choice of dog beds, mats and cushions is on offer along with matching duvets and an exclusive menu served up in a complimentary feeding bowl.
Pet-sitting services are available on request, along with dog walking, dog grooming, leads, toys and treats. If your dog still isn’t impressed, the hotel provides walking routes, along with maps for you both to enjoy.
Ashwater, Devon – Blagdon Manor
This beautiful country-house hotel offers exceptional service in a peaceful rural setting overlooking the spectacular Dartmoor scenery. It’s luxurious yet cosy and guests are made welcome by the owners and their own Labradors. They understand the needs of dog walkers, providing information on local walks and the best places to go with your pet. There are plenty of towels and space for muddy boots in case the Devon weather isn’t as tourist-friendly as the locals!
Ireby, Cumbria – Overwater Hall
Set in 18 acres of gardens and woodland areas, this hotel provides everything that you and your pet could need for a relaxing holiday together. With walking guides and maps and a pet-sitting service for those days when you are heading somewhere not so pet-friendly, dogs are made to feel particularly welcome by the owners and their pets.
Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway – Trigony House Hotel
Originally built as a shooting lodge, Trigony House Hotel has been transformed by the current owners into a stylish yet friendly country-house hotel. Canine guests are particularly welcome at this establishment, with every dog receiving a Welcome Pack. Top-quality dog treats are provided, along with a welcome letter from the owners’ dogs and a guide to the best walks in the area, many of them accessible directly from the hotel. Dog food, dog beds and towels can all be provided on request. Although dogs are obviously not permitted in the dining room for health and safety reasons, owners are invited to take their meals in the bar, where dogs are welcome to join them.
Wherever you choose to take your pet on holiday, be aware that these establishments may wish to see some form of documentation to show that your pet is up to date with vaccinations. For this reason, and to ensure your cute companion is covered in the event of an accident or illness, it is always a sensible precaution to ensure that you have adequate insurance in place, particularly third-party cover.
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Article courtesy of Louise Mayne-Flower who owns a Jack Russell called Harvey who always wants to go away with her.
