Dog feeling ruff? Time to paws for a pet-friendly break

Christmas and New Year can be a hugely stressful time of year for pets. There’s a constant flow of people and parties, their routines are disrupted, it’s noisy and bright, they’re constantly told to get out of the turkey/tree/presents/chocolates – it’s no wonder they can feel like their (wet) noses are out of joint.  

Festive celebrations combined with cold weather can also mean less exercise for pampered pets - and their owners - leaving everyone feeling out of sorts.

January is the perfect time to think about booking a stress-free break for the whole family to enjoy – four legged friends included. Pets stay (stress) free at thousands of properties available through Welcome Cottages. What’s more, the holiday company has added 150 brand new cottages to the portfolio for 2015 and more than 800 new properties nationwide over the past 12 months – making getting away from it all easier than ever before.

Sarah Whitehead, pet behaviour counsellor and author of ‘Clever Dog – the secrets your dog wants you to know’, said: “For many dogs, a holiday with their owners offers a rare opportunity for quality time with the family. We know that dogs are a mirror for human behaviour – meaning that a relaxed owner equals a relaxed hound – so a holiday where they’re fully taken into consideration and everyone can have a good time is hugely beneficial all round. Unlike going abroad with your dog, where the territory, weather and local rules can be completely unknown and veterinary requirements need to be sorted well in advance, a home-from-home cottage is the stress-free answer, even for a last-minute break. Leaving the usual routine behind, a cottage offers all the home comforts, without the daily grind that we live with at home.”

Nick Rudge, Welcome Cottages added: “It’s easy to forget how stressful the festive season can be for any pet. It can also be difficult to spend quality time with your animal, when everyone is dashing around for social arrangements, leaving them feeling firmly in the dog house. So the New Year can be a great time to think about a holiday for the whole family. Whether your pup likes long walks or curling up in front of a roaring fire, we have the perfect property for every pet.”

According to 2014 booking figures, the most popular locations in the UK for a holiday with man’s best friend are:

1. Cornwall

2. Yorkshire

3. Norfolk

4. Devon

5. Highlands

For more inspiration and to book simply visit welcomecottages.com.