One of life’s great pleasures is walking with your dog. Be it along Devon or Cornwall coastal paths or the highlands of the Peak District by tarns and lakes, a walk with man’s best friend in spectacular scenery can’t be beat.
They will thank you for it too as taking your dog on a longer walk has a range of benefits for them, and you.
The first and obvious benefit of taking your dog on holiday is that you will be more active than others. People who have a dog are more likely to walk half an hour more than those that don’t and on average walk 160 minutes per week. Everyone knows a dog that’s been on a longer walk also sleeps better. You only have to watch them collapse in their baskets after the jaunt.
Walking a dog is good to destress you and them. Research has shown that being around a dog actually lowers cortisol levels so it stands to reason that walking on holiday with your dog will further relax you. But anyone with a dog that needs a lot of walks, knows that they become agitated without them, so it helps them relax too.
Dog owners report that if their dog is noticeably happier on a good walk, then it makes them feel happier too – another shared benefit for both.
There’s also no happier dog than one who meets another on a walk to play, and the same can be said for the owner. Dog walks on holiday help you meet other like-minded dog-walkers and provide a social connection, which is needed now more than ever.
The benefits of mindfulness can also be gained from a holiday dog walk. How many people do you see walking on holiday who have simply stopped to sit on a bench and stare at the view. Many won’t realise that they are actually practicing mindfulness and being in the moment.
According to the NHS, mindfulness, “can help us enjoy the world around us more and understand ourselves better. When we become more aware of the present moment, we begin to experience afresh things that we have been taking for granted.”
So whether you take your dog on holiday and walk them to be more active or more appreciate life more, we have dog-friendly cottages with enclosed gardens, that benefit you and your dog. Choose a “Dogs Accepted” or “Dog Welcome” option - the second offering a dog-friendly welcome hamper with extras such as dog towels, throws and bags. A charge may apply for some cottages. Please check individual cottages for details.