For a nation of animal fans, it’s surprising how many places in England are not dog-friendly. Obviously there are sometimes issues re allergies and untrained dogs, but overall it’s good business to let dogs visit places (if only to stop irresponsible people leaving dogs in hot cars – same with dog beach bans). If something is closed, people with dogs should go elsewhere, not leave dogs alone. Also see the post on how to find good dog walks (inclues safety info including keeping dogs safe near livestock).
If you are making your shop, restaurant, hotel or office dog-friendly, keep toxic foods out of reach, and also remove toxic plants (same for cats – sago palm and lilies can be lethal to pets, even if a tail brushes against them). See a beginner’s guide to houseplants and how to make your garden safe for pets, to know plants, flowers, trees and other items like mulch to avoid near animal friend.
If offering treats, choose quality allergen-free ones for sensitive stomachs, and always ask permission before giving (some dogs may not not tolerate them). See the post on better pet foods for more tips on dog bowls and food brands. Not all dogs should use raised bowls. Let animals feed slowly and give at least an hour (preferably two) before letting dogs run (or travel in car) after food. Other risks are gulping water quickly, nervous/excitable dogs and large-breed dogs with deep chests.
You can register your business at Dog Friendly and Bring Fido, which list tens of thousands of dog-friendly places to visit, eat and stay. If your dog tends to be a bit naughty (!) learn how to train your dog with kindness (this is good for their safety, and ensures they will be welcome at more places). This book to keep your dog safe covers collar safety, but for leashes you can buy ones from Yellow Dog that lets other people know if your dog is nervous, recovering from surgery, deaf, blind or any other issue that means they need space (parents should teach children never to go up to a dog head-on as it freaks them out). Crouch down diagonally and let friendly sociable dogs come to you, and don’t make direct eye contact or let children scream – one of the worst things to freak out a nervous pup.
As well as a drinking bowl, large establishments can add a dog poop station, so that people can grab a biodegradable poop bag and deposit it, to ensure outside areas don’t get littered. Or at least offer a covered bin, to keep the area nice and safe for everyone.
Dog-Friendly Weekends (May 2022) is a practical and inspirational guide to dog-friendly holidays in Britain. It covers dog-friendly accommodation and pubs, but each chapter offers a well-rounded weekend away, with recommendations on attractions where dogs are allowed, and great walks for all abilities.
Lottie has spent years travelling around Britain with her canine companions, sifting out places that are truly dog-friendly (from those that are simply dog-tolerant). Drawing on her experience as an expert dog-friendly writer, she has come up with this unique guidebook. It includes museums where you can take dogs inside on rainy days, heritage railways where dogs ride free and countless walks. Plus island-hopping, city breaks and coast-and-countryside romps, from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands.
This book addresses all the important questions like:
- Is there space by the table for my dog?
- Can the dog come down for breakfast?
- Can the dog be left in the room?
Each place included has been vetted by the author, plus there are tips from experts on safe responsible travel with your dog, ensuring every guardian is well-equipped to give the whole family a memorable break away.
Where to Find Dog-Friendly Places
There are many sites, to show you places that accept canine friends. Do check the rules, as often you are not allowed to leave dogs while you go out, and many times dogs are not allowed on beds and couches, so bring your own dog bed.
Dogs are allowed in many shops and banks (often this depends on the branch – Metro Bank was launched as a dog-friendly bank with bowls of water and treats in-store, though a new owner means this policy may now differ, so check before visiting).
Are Dogs Allowed Near Food Shops?
Blue Cross states that no UK law says dogs must be banned from premises where food or drink is sold. However they are not allowed to enter areas (like kitchens) where food is prepared, handled or stored. If you run a food business from home, council laws differ (some say pets can never go in kitchens, others that pets simply must not enter kitchen while food preparation is happening).
One food chain that has come under fire for not allowing dogs is Wetherspoons (not even external areas). It even asks people with assistance dogs to bring documentation with them. Blind and disabled people have enough issues, they don’t need to faff around with finding documents to prove their identity, just to enjoy a beer on a hot day.
Assistance Dogs Cannot Be Banned
UK law is very clear. All guide dogs and assistance dogs with guardians are allowed to enter premises and vehicles (apart from special circumstances like a serious medical allergy). Yet despite this law, 76% of people with guide dogs have been refused access (including taxis or been asked to eat outside in the rain. Even worse, some blind people have suffered abuse (think how terrifying this must be for both person and dog).
Open Doors app lets you report businesses that refuse access. Religious, cultural or ‘not liking dogs’ are not legally acceptable reasons (Islamic Shariah Council says that Muslim businesses should accept assistance dogs). Guide Dogs also want large areas like hospitals and shopping centres to provide toilet areas for assistance dogs.
