Your dog deserves a holiday!

One of the biggest decisions families with a dog face when booking a holiday is whether to bring their furry companion along or leave them in the capable (or not-so-capable) hands of friends, family, or the dreaded kennels. Studies suggest that taking your dog on holiday isn’t just good for them, it’s pretty great for you too! We’ve rounded up 5 reasons why you'd be barking mad not to bring your dog on holiday with you, so let's jump right in...

1. The Ultimate De-stresser

There is something massive that dogs and holidays have in common, they're natural stress busters! We all know this from experience but what you may not have known is your dog will benefit just as much as you. Studies from Veterinary Practice News show that dogs are way less stressed when they’re with you, which means less anxiety for your pup and more relaxation for you​.

So, whether your ideal holiday is surrounded by gorgeous countryside or enjoying the sea breeze by the beach, your dog is going to love joining you.

2. Walkies!

There’s nothing quite like the elated reaction from your dog when you say “who wants to go on a walk?” and the excitement they show, even just for a stroll around your neighbourhood. Now, imagine how much more thrilled they’ll be to explore somewhere new and exciting. Not only does walking help reduce stress and keep both of you active, but it’s also fantastic for improving overall health. Regular walks boost heart health, lower blood pressure, and increase overall happiness​

You and your dog can enjoy some truly special walks at our Holiday Parks. Whether it’s the peaceful lakeside paths at Riverside Holiday Park, the beautiful coastal walks at Pease Bay Holiday Park with its breathtaking sea views, or the woodland trails around Erigmore Holiday Park, each location offers unique landscapes that will make every walk an adventure for both you and your pup!

3. Strengthening your Bond

We all love those extra snuggles and quality time with our dog on holiday, and it turns out, your dog does too! Spending more time together strengthens the bond between you both which isn’t just nice, it’s also really good for your well-being. Research from Veterinary Practice News shows that spending time with your dog helps reduce feelings of loneliness and boosts mental health for both of you. The connection you share can create positive feelings of comfort and companionship, which can help relieve stress and increase happiness for everyone involved.

4. Forget the FOMO, Furry Friend

Studies from Ever Dog Training show that dogs can experience FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), and of course none of us want our pooch to experience that. Dogs love being part of the family action, and when they’re excluded it can lead to stress and anxiety.

The good news is you can avoid this when you bring your dog along on holiday, they won’t miss out on any of the fun. All of our Verdant Leisure Holiday Parks feature dog-friendly accommodation and venues, so your pooch can join you for meals, strolls, and relaxation. No sad puppy eyes or FOMO for your furry friend, just wagging tails and shared memories!

5. New Sights and Smells

Holidays are all about exploring somewhere new, and your dog is going to love all the exciting fresh experiences! Research from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute suggests that being in a different environment can help your dog feel more confident and even reduce anxiety. Whether it’s a beach, trail, or park, these new environments provide great mental stimulation and keep your dog feeling happy and relaxed.

Looking for some suggestions on where to take your dog on your holiday? We’ve got you covered! Check out our top dog-friendly beaches to visit while you're with us.

Ready for a Pet-Friendly Getaway?

Now that we've covered all the reasons why bringing your dog along on holiday is the best idea, why not go ahead and book your next pet-friendly getaway? We can't wait to see you and your furry friend soon! Check out more details on our pet-friendly holidays here or give our friendly holidays team a call at 03300 535524. We're excited to help plan your next getaway.