7 Pet-friendly Destinations You Must Visit With Your Four-legged Companion!

Or two-legged. I mean, birds are pets too. So are snakes. People have been known to tame ostriches in the past.

But I digress.

Going on a vacation with your pet is all kinds of cool. Think epic Instagram selfies with your pet, exercises and adventures with your pets, and laying on the super-comfy bed while he shakes himself off, giving the cleaning staff extra work for their next shift. Holidays with pets are growing more popular by the day in India, as we wake up to a bevy of pet-friendly restaurants in the country. However, in terms of accommodation, transport and recreational facilities, we still have miles to catch up with these seven pet-friendly destinations you must visit with your four-legged companion.

Australia

Down Under ensures quite a spectacular vacation for you and your pet if you decide to go there. From pet friendly hotels in Melbourne to doggy parks and attractions in Sydney to pet events and fairs that you could attend – Australia has it all. The laidback Aussies love to chill at the beaches, especially with their pets so that’s another great activity to indulge in with your pooch. Just be sure to bring a Frisbee along!

England

Known as the land of dog and cat lovers, England is one of those places where it’s considered more appropriate to show affection towards animals than humans. The government has relaxed its animal quarantine laws so the six-month quarantine is no longer in place – so long as your pet comes with a passport. The rollicking hills, meadows and beautiful gardens in the country will make sure your pet has a propah’ time indeed.

Austria

Austria’s rugged terrain is perfect to give your dog some vigorous exercise. The glistening landscape of this country makes for some enduring photographs to click with your pet as well. Just make sure your dog is issued an ISO microchip before entry, and that you don’t take more than three pets there (which would be kind of an effort in the first place – I mean, you HAVE come here to relax, haven’t you?).  Like Switzerland, Austria too allows pets on its public transport and restaurants and the people are generally quite genial and loving towards pets in general.

Greece

Think beaches, villas and the ocean front to run around with your pet. Greece as a pet-friendly destination can be highly rewarding, if you know when and where to go. Try to book around the months of spring – because summer can be a bit harsh here. Although, if your pet has braved the heat of India, there’s little else that can put a serious dent on him/her.

USA

While the import regulations for travelling with a pet can be a tad annoying in the USA, the country richly rewards your patience with the number of facilities it has for your pet. Bear in mind that certain dog breeds are not allowed entry within the United States. Moreover, the federal system of the country requires you to research the pet policies of the state(s) you are visiting to know what goes and what doesn’t. If you make it through this, however, USA can be just the bliss your dog is looking for. From pet-friendly hotel chains to airlines which let you carry your pets with you, to pet socializing events, grooming salons and tons of dog parks, there’s just about everything your pooch could ever want to be pampered the way he deserves!

Spain

Spain is a warm country, so keep adequate water supply in hand to keep your pet hydrated. Other than that, Spain is a bliss for your pet, thanks to its luxurious villas that accept pets, restaurants and cafes that are quite tolerant of our canine friends and plenty of water bodies and pools that invite you and your pet to take a splash. Some of the larger cities even come with dog exercise and toilet areas to add an extra dose of fun and convenience for your pooch.

Switzerland

While not a member of the EU, Switzerland is pretty tolerant of pets being transported in and out of its borders, so bear that in mind while planning your Eurotrip with your pet. Swiss public transport officially accepts pet travel, and they even issue a Day Card for Dogs. Small dogs less than 30 cm high get to travel for free. Most restaurants will allow you to bring in your pet, if it remains docile.

So where are you taking your pooch this year?