This is what you need to know when booking a holiday park with a dog

A holiday is only truly complete when you can take your dog with you. More and more people are choosing to go on holiday with their dog to a holiday park. This is not only fun, but also practical. However, there are a number of things you need to take into account when booking a holiday with your four-legged friend. Think of rules, facilities, safety and what you need to take with you. In this blog you can read what you need to pay attention to for a carefree holiday with your dog.

Choosing a dog-friendly holiday park when going on holiday with your dog

Not every holiday park is automatically suitable for dogs. If you are going on holiday with your dog, it is important to check carefully whether a park is really dog-friendly. Center Parcs where dogs are welcome is a good option, for example. For example, look for facilities such as fenced gardens, dog showers or special dog walking areas. Such extras make the stay for you and your dog a lot more pleasant. Also check the facilities such as walking routes in the area or a dog playing field. Many parks say they are dog-friendly, but that does not always mean that the facilities meet the needs of a dog owner. A good way to check whether a holiday park is really dog-friendly is to read reviews from people who have already been there with their dog. These experiences often give an honest picture. This way you know in advance what to expect and you avoid disappointment. There are also holiday parks with dog bungalows that are specially designed for dogs.

What to take on holiday with your dog

Good preparation is essential for a relaxing holiday with your dog. By making a clear packing list in advance, you prevent stress and ensure that you do not forget anything important. When packing, consider the following:

• Basket or blanket: so your dog feels at home right away
• Extra long leash or ground peg: handy in places without fencing
• Water, drinking bowl and cooling mat: to prevent overheating during the trip
• Familiar food: prevents intestinal problems due to dietary changes
• Medication: take enough with you for the entire holiday period
• First aid kit for dogs: including tick tweezers and disinfectant
• Bags, toys and vaccination booklet: for relaxation and emergencies

With these items at hand, you are well prepared for any situation and can fully enjoy your holiday together.

Rules and house rules for dogs in holiday parks

If you are going on holiday to a holiday park with your dog, it is important to be well informed about the applicable rules in advance. Each park has its own house rules to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests. Please note the following:

• Keeping on a leash: this is mandatory at most holiday parks
• Off-leash areas: some parks offer specially designated off-leash areas, such as holiday parks with enclosed gardens
• Access to public areas: check whether dogs are welcome in restaurants or swimming pools
• Additional costs: sometimes you pay a surcharge for taking your dog with you
• House rules: you often have to sign these upon arrival
• Restrictions: there may be rules regarding dog breeds or maximum number of dogs dogs
• Alternatives: consider a dog crate or dog buggy if your dog is not allowed everywhere

By checking these rules in advance, you can avoid surprises and know exactly what to expect for a relaxing holiday with your dog.

On holiday with a dog at home or abroad

The choice between home and abroad affects your preparation. In the Netherlands, the rules are clear and you can often quickly switch if you have questions or problems. But if you go on holiday abroad with your dog, you will have to deal with different rules. For example, there are differences per country in terms of leash requirements, muzzle use or the admission of certain breeds. In some countries, it is mandatory to have a European pet passport with you, including proof of rabies vaccination. There may be checks at border crossings, so make sure your papers are in order. Also keep in mind that not every holiday park abroad is set up for dogs as standard. So always check whether there are off-leash areas nearby and how long you will be on the road. A long journey requires more preparation and rest periods than a short trip within the Netherlands.

Safety and health of your dog during the holiday

During your holiday, you mainly want to relax, but don't forget to also pay attention to the safety and health of your dog. A holiday park often has a lot of stimuli, from playing children to unfamiliar smells and animals. So pay close attention to what your dog encounters, such as plants that can be poisonous or water that contains bacteria. Small accidents such as a grazed leg or a tick bite can happen quickly. So make sure you have a simple first aid kit for your dog, including bandages, disinfectant and a tick remover. Also think about the heat: dogs cannot get rid of their heat well. Make sure there is enough shade and never leave your dog in the car. It is also important to adjust your pace to the temperature during walks.

Do you want to enjoy a carefree holiday with your dog? On Holiday-Park-Guide.com you can easily find the best dog-friendly holiday parks, complete with up-to-date information and honest reviews. Book quickly and safely directly with the provider and benefit from advice from our experts. View the offer and plan your ideal holiday with your four-legged friend!