Holidays with a dog - how to prepare for them

Going on holiday doesn't have to mean separating or giving up your dog to friends or family. It's nice if you can include your furry pal or buddy in this year's plans, and we give you a little hint on how to prepare for it. So call your pooch into your lap and plan a doggie holiday together in Nature.

What to pack?

The list of things to remember could be endless and every owner will probably add their three cents to it, but there are a few essentials that you should definitely take with you. 

Pet-friendly places

It is becoming increasingly rare to find a shop or restaurant that you cannot enter with your dog, but that does not mean that they no longer exist. Outside of big cities, such places may turn out to be exceptions. Therefore, if you are planning a romantic dinner out and do not want or cannot leave your dog alone, check first whether your dog is allowed in your chosen venue. It's not just a matter of formality, but also whether your pooch will be able to lie down and rest somewhere, i.e. there won't be loud music playing or it won't be very crowded, for example.

When it comes to hotels and places to stay, more and more are also offering the option of accommodation with a pet, often free of charge. Below you can check out where to get away with your furry one close to Nature.

What to do to avoid boredom?

Contrary to the opinion of some, you can really do a lot of things with your dog - not just go for a brisk walk around the block. Any trips to the forestor even to the countryside will be a source of new stimuli and smells for your companion and in the evening he will fall more tired than after running after a stick for half an hour. 

We all know that fish like to swim, so it is worth reminding you at this point that some dogs do too! Some are born swimmers, others may need a little encouragement, but once they're in, there's plenty of fun to be had! That's why it's fun to take your dog to the water from time to time. sea, lake or river (check first if the current is too strong) and see how it feels. Perhaps you will discover his hidden talent?

Once you know how your dog reacts to water, it can be an equally cool idea to put him on a kayak and take it with you on a canoe trip. The Czarna Hancza is full of canoes, from which protrude dog faces, closely watching the surroundings. There is also something for the timid: mankind has already invented something like the doggy hood, in which no waves frighten them.

What about campsites?

In Poland, campsites are an interesting topic. In most of them you will pay extra for your dog, and the price will vary depending on the size of the dog. So let's be precise - small dog = York, Chihuahua or, more rarely, Dachshund, medium dog = large dog and a large dog is anything that sticks out above the calf. And seriously, remember that on the campsite your dog must be on a lead or rope and not running loose. If you are going tent camping, make sure your dog is kept warm. You have sleeping bags and sleeping pads, so it is a good idea to take your dog's bedding and find a place for it in the tent.

What to remember at the end

To ensure that your holiday is a success and that everyone benefits 100%, there are a couple of things to bear in mind in addition to having fun. Firstly, if your pooch is not used to a change of location, the trip can be stressful for him. He may not have an appetite, be anxious or even get diarrhoea. Getting your dog used to new places and people before you leave may be a good idea in this case.

Secondly, it is not only humans who suffer from motion sickness. It can happen that your dog is nauseous and may even vomit. You can give him medication before travelling, but it is worth consulting your vet beforehand.

Not all places in Nature can be entered with dogs. Most national parks prohibit the introduction of pets or limit this possibility to one short trail somewhere on the very edge of the reserve. In the few where you can enter with your pets, remember that the dog must be on a lead at all times and that we must clean up after it.

National parks where you can enter with your dog (on a lead):

Summary

It may seem like there are quite a few things to keep in mind before heading out with your pet, but we assure you it's all worth it! Your time together is not infinite and it would be nice to spend it together as best you can.