Keeping Your Dog Safe in New Places: A Guide for UK Dog Owners

Summer holidays are a time for relaxation, adventure, and exploring new places. But if you’re a dog owner, the excitement of staying in unfamiliar surroundings can bring about concerns for your furry friend’s safety and comfort. Whether you’re staying in a new accommodation, meeting new people, or exploring new walking locations, it’s important to take steps to ensure your dog feels secure. Here’s a guide to keeping your dog safe and happy during your summer travels.

1. Keeping your dog safe in New Accommodation

When you arrive at your holiday accommodation, it’s important to help your dog adjust to their new environment. Here’s how to make the transition smoother:

• Create a Familiar Space: Bring along your dog’s favourite bed, blanket, and toys. Having familiar scents and objects will help them feel more at home in the new space.
• Check the Environment: Before letting your dog explore, ensure that the accommodation is dog-friendly. Look out for any hazards like unsecured balconies, open windows, or sharp objects.
• Establish a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so try to keep feeding, walking, and sleeping times consistent with what they’re used to at home. This will help them feel more secure and less stressed in the new environment.

2. Introducing Your Dog to New People

Meeting new people can be overwhelming for some dogs, especially if they’re naturally shy or anxious. Here are some tips to help your dog feel comfortable around new company:

• Gradual Introductions: Allow your dog to meet new people at their own pace. Start with one-on-one introductions before introducing them to larger groups​.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they behave calmly around new people. This will help them associate new faces with positive experiences.
• Respect Boundaries: Make sure that guests understand your dog’s boundaries. If your dog prefers not to be touched or needs space, communicate this to avoid any uncomfortable situations.

3. Keeping My Dog Safe in New Walking Locations

Walking in new places can be exciting but also potentially risky if you’re not prepared. To keep your dog safe on unfamiliar walks:

• Research the Area: Before heading out, research dog-friendly walks and parks in the area. Websites like The National Trust provide information on dog-friendly trails and any specific rules you need to be aware of​.
• Use a Secure Lead: In unfamiliar areas, it’s best to keep your dog on a lead, especially if they’re prone to wandering off or have a strong prey drive. Consider using a harness for added security.
• Check for Hazards: Be vigilant for any potential hazards such as cliffs, fast-flowing rivers, or areas with livestock. If you’re walking in a rural area, make sure your dog is under control around farm animals.
• Bring Essentials: Always carry water, a bowl, and poop bags. In warmer weather, ensure you have enough water to keep your dog hydrated during the walk​.

4. Travelling with an anxious dog

Travel itself can be stressful for some dogs, particularly if they’re not used to long car journeys or being in a crate. Here’s how to manage travel stress:

• Familiarise with the Car: If your dog isn’t used to car travel, take them on short trips leading up to your holiday to get them accustomed to the experience.
• Comfort Items: Bring along your dog’s favourite blanket or toy for the journey. The familiar scent will help them feel more secure during travel​.
• Frequent Breaks: Plan for regular stops on long journeys to allow your dog to stretch their legs, drink water, and relieve themselves​.

5. Keeping your dog cool in the heat

Summer holidays often mean warmer weather, which can be a risk for dogs, especially those with thick coats or short snouts. Keep your dog safe in the heat with these tips:

• Avoid Midday Walks: Plan walks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid walking on hot pavements, which can burn your dog’s paws.
• Provide Shade and Water: Ensure your dog has access to shade and fresh water at all times. Consider carrying a portable water bowl and extra water during outings​.
• Use Dog Sunscreen: If your dog has a light-coloured coat or thin fur, apply dog-safe sunscreen to exposed areas like the nose and ears to prevent sunburn​.

Conclusion

Your summer holiday should be a time of joy and relaxation for both you and your dog. By taking the time to prepare and ensure your dog’s safety in new places, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday together. From familiarising them with new surroundings to ensuring their comfort on walks and travels, these tips will help your dog feel secure and happy, no matter where your adventures take you.

For more information on dog-friendly travel and tips, check out resources from the National Trust, RSPCA andBlue Cross.