Holidaying With Your Four-Legged Friend

Going on holiday can be difficult when you are a dog lover and owner as it can break your heart having to leave them behind. Not only that, it can cause a world of hassle trying to find someone to watch them or a reliable kennel that you can trust.

According to Blue Cross, three-quarters of UK pet owning holiday makers opt for a stay-cation in the UK with their four-legged friend, rather than an overseas break.

As the nation sets off on their summer travels, national pet charity, Blue Cross, reveals that 76% of UK dog or cat owners have chosen to holiday in the UK so that they can take their beloved pets with them more easily.  Almost half of pet owners surveyed by Blue Cross said that it’s too expensive to travel abroad with a pet and they are also worried that their pet would be injured during travel.

One of the main reasons dog owners opt for a staycation in the UK, is because of the abundance of countryside walks readily available to enjoy with their four legged friends – 60% of dog owners agree. We’ve put together our pick of dog friendly accommodation options in Scotland, surrounded by a variety of countryside walks.

Carloway, Isle of Lewis, Scottish Hebridean Islands

Set on the Isle of Lewis, 27 Garenin is just minutes from the westside coastal walk and some incredible beaches – yes, these do exist in Scotland! The house is surrounding by its own croft that is perfect for dog(s) to run around in a self-contained environment.

Reach the Isle of Lewis by ferry via a scenic drive to Ullapool at the north of Scotland, or from Oban via Castlebay and Lochboisdale and enjoy a real adventure to begin your holiday. Being the largest of the western isles, the Isle of Lewis can be the perfect base to explore some of the smaller islands too, including the Isle of Harris. Some historical sites to visit during your stay include Callanish Stones, Lews Castle, Iron Age Houses near Great Bernera and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Monument at Arnish.

Find out more here.

Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway

Nature enthusiasts will love Conifer Lodges set in the heart of Galloway Forest Park in Dumfries and Galloway, complete with plenty of woodland for exploring with four legged friends.

The lodges are within easy reach of all things active, including mountain biking, walking and also ideal for fishing. Conifer Lodges guests can enjoy special golf rates locally and even take advantage of free fishing nearby. For 2 legged friends, our hot tubs – available with each lodge – are the perfect end to a perfect day.

Find out more here.

Near Linlithgow, Edinburgh and the Lothians

Williamscraig Holiday Cottages is a collection of 3 recently converted properties offering stylish, comfortable accommodation for between 6 and 8 people. Having recently won the “Best Tourism Business Award” in the West Lothian Business Excellence Awards 2018, it is no surprise that these cottages are in high demand, especially with the vast grounds to play with your beloved pets.

Each cottage comes complete with it’s own private hot tub that can be used all year round as well as a Badger Cam so you can keep an eye on the local nightlife!

Find out more here.

It’s always important to keep your pets safe when travelling. Follow Blue Cross advice and make sure your pet is in good health before embarking on any adventures with your four-legged family member.

For more advice on travelling safely with pets in summer, as well as general pet summer safety, visit this link.

Above is just a small selection of pet friendly properties available to stay in, there are plenty more to view – click here.