Liverpool pet care company gives their top tips for happy and healthy staycations with your dog

Staycations are back on.

The Government announced yesterday that hotels and B&Bs have been added to self-catering accommodation as being allowed for a summer holiday.

So if you fancy a week on Anglesey, a trip to the Lakes, or maybe somewhere further afield like Cornwall, it is time to get your pet friendly trip booked up.

Our friends at Merseyside based PetExx have given us the lowdown on enjoying a dog friendly staycation now lockdown restrictions are slowly being lifted.

*PetExx are the pet experts and produce a range of natural supplement to keep your dogs and cats health and happy. Find out more here

Where to go

There are loads of dog friendly properties in the United Kingdom where you can enjoy a UK staycation with your furry friends.

Whether you want a beach break or a holiday in the beautiful British countryside, companies like Dog Friendly Cottages and Canine Cottages can help you find the perfect destination.

Try to choose a staycation that will suit both you and your pet.

Your accommodation should be suitable, don’t pick a holiday apartment upstairs if your dog has joint issues, or a busy holiday park if you have a nervous pooch who doesn’t like lots of canine company.

A beach holiday is perfect for dogs who love to swim, like spaniels and anywhere with long walks is ideal for a lively labrador.

Check local beaches are dog friendly, some aren’t during summer months, and also make sure there are lots of local restaurants and cafes that let you bring your pets out for meals if you intend to eat out. The Beach Guide is a great place to start your research.

Exercise

The best thing about a UK staycation is the chance to enjoy lots of walks with your dog.

The amount of exercise your dog needs varies from breed to breed.

A large working breed like a Retriever needs up to two hours exercise every day, a Chihuahua more like 20 or 30 minutes, so make sure you plan holiday walks that suit your dog as well as yourself.

Dogs don’t just need physical exercise; they need a brain workout too. Playtime and games are equally important, so remember to take some toys on holiday with you as well as a puzzle bowl for food time if you have a particularly active dog.

Natural joint supplements for dogs are an important part of their diet, particularly as they age, to help them enjoy exercise and holidays.

Added ingredients like glucosamine, omega 3, turmeric and green lipped mussel are effective for supporting joints, reducing inflammation and keeping your best friend healthy and happy.

So don’t forget to pack some natural supplements.

If they develop an obvious limp you should consult a vet while you are away. The British Veterinary Association can recommend.

Food and nutrition

Holidays are a chance to kick back and relax and that can see us eating different foods and letting healthy habits slip.

That shouldn’t be the case for your dog though.

Remember to take their regular food and healthy nutritional supplements on holiday with you.

If they are the type of dog who suffers from an upset tummy from time to time remember to pack some Stomach Settler – but do seek the advice of a local vet immediately if they have continuous vomiting or dioarrea or you suspect they have eaten something poisonous.

It’s hard to resist the hungry expression of a dog, especially when you are with them 24/7 on holiday so we recommend healthy, low fat treats like fish skin cubes to take with you. Or seek out a local pet shop as soon as you arrive to stock up your holiday kitchen with healthy pet snacks.

If your dog drags their bottom along the floor, that could suggest anal gland issues. Consult your vet and consider adding an easily digestible fibre supplement to their diet. This is available in powder form to sprinkle on their food.

Visit the PetExx website and check out the range of products available for your pet here.