When the sun shines and the days are long, there’s no better place to be than at the beach with your dog!
If you’re planning a day at the seaside this summer, we know where all the best beaches in the UK are for a fun and safe day out. How? Well, our friends at Vets Now, the UK’s leading provider of emergency pet care, have compiled a comprehensive guide to the top 50 dog-friendly beaches in the country.
“Unfortunately, pet emergencies don’t take summer holidays and each summer we witness a significant rise in emergency cases that are related to beaches and the sea,” explains Laura Playforth, professional standards director at Vets Now and one of the authors of the Best Beach Guide.
“We’ve only chosen beaches where water quality is deemed high, dogs are welcome all year round, parking and access is good and a daytime vet is based nearby. All those featured are within an hour’s drive of a Vets Now pet emergency clinic or hospital so, if you’re at the beach in the evening or weekend and suffer a pet emergency, you know you’re never far from expert help.”
And if you do find yourself worried whilst at the beach, or afterwards, Vets Now have launched Video Vets Now where you can arrange a video call with one of their emergency vets from the Vets Now team within minutes, no matter where you are in the UK. A ten-minute video consult costs £24 and is refundable if Vets Now recommend an in-person follow up within 48 hours.
To find out the nearest dog-friendly beach to you, click here for Vets Now downloadable guide.
For more details and how to book visit: Online Vets | Video Chat With Our UK Based Vets | 8am-11pm Daily (vets-now.com)
When the sun shines and the days are long, there’s no better place to be than at the beach with your dog!
If you’re planning a day at the seaside this summer, we know where all the best beaches in the UK are for a fun and safe day out. How? Well, our friends at Vets Now, the UK’s leading provider of emergency pet care, have compiled a comprehensive guide to the top 50 dog-friendly beaches in the country.
“Unfortunately, pet emergencies don’t take summer holidays and each summer we witness a significant rise in emergency cases that are related to beaches and the sea,” explains Laura Playforth, professional standards director at Vets Now and one of the authors of the Best Beach Guide.
“We’ve only chosen beaches where water quality is deemed high, dogs are welcome all year round, parking and access is good and a daytime vet is based nearby. All those featured are within an hour’s drive of a Vets Now pet emergency clinic or hospital so, if you’re at the beach in the evening or weekend and suffer a pet emergency, you know you’re never far from expert help.”
And if you do find yourself worried whilst at the beach, or afterwards, Vets Now have launched Video Vets Now where you can arrange a video call with one of their emergency vets from theVets Now teamwithin minutes, no matter where you are in the UK. A ten-minute video consult costs £24 and is refundable if Vets Now recommend an in-person follow up within 48 hours.
To find out the nearest dog-friendly beach to you, click here for Vets Now downloadable guide.
Our Guide To Taking Your Dog On The Train For The First Time
For many dog owners, the thought of taking their furry companions on a train journey for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Questions like "Are dogs allowed on trains?" and "Can you take dogs on the Eurostar?" often arise. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and preparation, traveling with your dog on a train can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will address all your concerns and provide valuable insights on how to make your dog's first train journey a pleasant one.
Are Dogs Allowed on Trains?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trains, but specific regulations and policies can vary between train operators and regions. To ensure a smooth journey, it's crucial to research the dog-friendly policies of the train service you plan to use. Most train services allow dogs to travel with their owners, but there are conditions you should be aware of, such as size restrictions, the need for a lead and, in some cases, the requirement for a muzzle.
Can Dogs Go On Trains In The UK?
Traveling with your canine companion on trains in the United Kingdom is a common practice, and train operators across the country have established guidelines to make this experience safe and enjoyable for both pets and passengers. Here, we will provide you with information based on the guidance from the official National Rail website.
National Rail has laid out a comprehensive pet policy to clarify the rules and requirements for traveling with dogs and other pets on trains across the UK. Below are some key points from their policy:
Size Restrictions: National Rail's pet policy does not specify a weight limit for dogs, but it is essential to ensure your dog is well-behaved and can fit comfortably in the space provided without causing inconvenience to other passengers.
Lead Requirements: While on the train, your dog should be kept on a lead or harness, or in some cases in a pet carrier - smaller dogs may feel more comfortable in a dog carrier.
Carriage Restrictions: Dogs are typically allowed in the passenger carriages, but it is advisable to check with your specific train service for designated areas or carriages for travellers with pets.
Reservations: Making a reservation is strongly recommended when traveling with your dog, as it ensures you have sufficient space and reduces potential inconveniences to other passengers.
Cleaning Up: Responsible pet owners should carry poop bags to clean up after their dogs. This ensures that the train remains clean and hygienic for all passengers.
Identification and Vaccination Documents: While it is not a strict requirement on all train services, it's a good practice to carry identification and vaccination documents for your dog. This can be especially important if your dog were to become lost during your journey. Make sure the name and address on both their microchip and ID tag on their collar is up to date.
Behaviour and Consideration: Be considerate of your fellow passengers. Ensure your dog remains well-behaved, quiet, and does not cause any disturbances during the journey.
It's important to note that National Rail's pet policy is a guideline for the entire UK rail network, but there may be some variations depending on the train operator or specific services. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the train service you plan to use to ensure you comply with their individual pet policy.
Can Dogs Go On Eurostar Trains?
Dogs can only go on certain Eurostar train routes, but there are guidelines you must follow. Eurostar allows small dogs to travel with their owners under specific conditions. Make sure to check the Eurostar website for the most up-to-date information on their pet policy.
Taking Your Dog on the Train for the First Time
Now that you know dogs are generally welcome on trains, let's explore some essential tips to ensure a stress-free and comfortable journey for both you and your canine companion.
1. Check the Train Service's Pet Policy
Before embarking on your journey, visit the official website of the train service you plan to use. Familiarise yourself with their specific pet policy, including size restrictions, lead and muzzle requirements, and any additional charges.
2. Make a Reservation
When traveling with your dog on a train, it's advisable to make a reservation. This helps ensure there is enough space for both you and your furry friend. Inform the train operator that you'll be traveling with a dog when booking your ticket.
3. Prepare Your Dog
It's essential to prepare your dog for the train journey. Introduce your pet to the sights and sounds of the train station and use positive reinforcement to create a calm and stress-free atmosphere. Bring your dog's favourite toys and a comfortable blanket for added comfort.
4.Carry Essential Supplies
Pack the following essentials for your dog's journey:
Water and a portable bowl
Dog food and treats
Poop bags for clean-up
Identification and vaccination documents
First-aid kit
5. Choose the Right Seat
Select a seat that's more spacious and comfortable for both you and your dog. Many train services have designated areas for passengers with pets, so inquire about these options when making your reservation.
6. Be Considerate of Other Passengers
Remember that not everyone on the train may be as fond of dogs as you are. Keep your dog on a lead, and ensure they are well-behaved throughout the journey. Be respectful of other passengers by avoiding excessive barking or any disturbances.
Traveling with your dog on a train for the first time can be a wonderful experience when approached with proper planning and knowledge. Dogs are generally allowed on trains, and the key to a successful journey lies in understanding and adhering to the specific pet policies of the train service you choose. Prepare your dog, carry essential supplies, and be considerate of other passengers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend. With the right preparation, your dog can become the perfect travel companion on the rails.
For dog owners, there's nothing quite like exploring the great outdoors with your furry companion. Fortunately, the National Trust, renowned for preserving and protecting some of the UK's most stunning natural and historical sites, offers numerous dog-friendly options. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the best dog-friendly National Trust properties and sites near you, ensuring both you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a memorable day out.
The National Trust's Commitment to Dog-Friendly Policies
The National Trust has a strong commitment to welcoming dogs and their owners. Many of their properties, gardens, and estates are dog-friendly, as long as canine code is followed. They teamed up with one of favourite food brands, Forthglade, to create the canine code; it has 4 key rules.
Keep them close - use a short lead when walking your dog to keep them from disturbing ground-nesting birds and farm animal
Pick up poo - make sure to have some poo bags to hand to clean up after your dog
Watch the signs - make sure to read any signage to double check where you're walking is dog friendly, some areas are only dog friendly at certain times of year
Stay on the ball - as much as we love our four-legged friends, they can be scary to some people. We advise making sure they don't run up to people so that everyone can enjoy their walks
10 Dog-Friendly National Trust Properties
1. Lyme Park, Cheshire
Lyme Park is a dog-friendly National Trust property nestled in the heart of Cheshire. With over 1,400 acres of parkland and woodland to explore, your dog will have a field day here. The sweeping vistas and stunning mansion make this a great place for both human and canine history buffs.
2. Trelissick, Cornwall
Trelissick, located near Truro in Cornwall, offers a beautiful garden and estate that welcomes dogs. Meander through the gardens and woodlands while taking in breathtaking views of the Fal River.
Enjoy a short stroll across the parkland that overlooks the estuary and sea with views as far as your eye can see. Or, take a longer a trek down through the trees to Roundwood Quay.
3. Petworth House and Park, West Sussex
In the picturesque county of West Sussex, you'll find Petworth House and Park. Dogs on leads are welcome in the parkland surrounding the grand house, making it a delightful destination for a dog walk, you may even spot some deer!
4. Goddards' Garden, Yorkshire
If you're looking for a serene garden setting to explore with your dog, Goddards Garden in North Yorkshire is an excellent choice. The garden's tranquil atmosphere, charming pergolas, and colourful flowerbeds create a picturesque backdrop for your leisurely stroll with your furry friend. You can both enjoy the scent of blooming flowers and the calming sound of birdsong as you wander through this hidden gem.
5. Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Kent
Sissinghurst Castle Garden in Kent is famous for its stunning design and vibrant flora. Dog owners will be pleased to know that dogs on leads are welcome in the garden, making it a fantastic place for a leisurely stroll.
While the options listed above are excellent, there are many more dog-friendly National Trust properties across the UK. Some other noteworthy mentions include:
Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Stowe, Buckinghamshire
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire
Mount Stewart, County Down
Stackpole, Pembrokeshire
Finding Dog-Friendly National Trusts Near You
To find dog-friendly National Trust properties near you, visit the official National Trust website and use their interactive map. You can filter your search to display only dog-friendly sites, making the planning process a breeze.
Forthglade x National Trust Dog Food
The National Trust and Forthglade have co-branded range of gourmet dinners, the purchase of each recipe goes towards supporting the National Trust's amazing work in caring for many of the beautiful places we and our four-legged friends love to explore, including 780 miles of coastline, forests, woods, fens, beaches, historic houses, gardens, pubs & more! We stock some of the range here at L&L and our office dogs can confirm how much they love the range!
The National Trust offers a wealth of dog-friendly options for both local and visiting dog owners. With their commitment to preserving natural beauty and historical significance, you can explore the UK's cultural heritage with your canine companion by your side. Remember to check specific property guidelines and respect the rules to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. So, whether you're seeking historic houses, picturesque gardens, or vast landscapes, there's a dog-friendly National Trust site near you waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your adventures with your furry friend!
Why You Should Keep Toxic Blue-Green Algae Away From Your Dog
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can be a beautiful natural sight in many bodies of water. However, beneath their picturesque appearance lies a hidden danger, especially to our furry companions.
In this blog post, we'll delve into the reasons why you should be vigilant about keeping toxic blue-green algae away from your dog whilst you're out on walks. We'll also discuss the symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning in dogs, treatment options, and how to recognise the signs of potential toxicity. Let's prioritise our pets' well-being and keep them safe from this silent threat.
Understanding Toxic Blue-Green Algae
Blue-green algae, despite its name, is not actually algae but a type of bacteria that thrives in freshwater and brackish water bodies. These organisms can form dense blooms on the surface of ponds, lakes, and rivers, particularly during warm, stagnant conditions. While not all blue-green algae are harmful, certain species produce toxins that can be lethal to both wildlife and pets, including dogs.
Symptoms of Algae Poisoning in Dogs
Blue-green algae poisoning can be life-threatening for dogs, and it's crucial to recognise the symptoms early. Common signs of blue-green algae poisoning in dogs include:
Vomiting: Dogs may vomit shortly after ingesting contaminated water or algae.
Diarrhoea: Diarrhoea can occur, often accompanied by blood or mucus.
Lethargy: Your dog may appear weak, tired, and less active than usual.
Excessive Salivation: Increased drooling may be noticeable.
Difficulty Breathing: Breathing difficulties and panting can be signs of severe poisoning.
Seizures: In severe cases, seizures can occur, indicating a critical stage of toxicity.
Liver Failure: Advanced poisoning may lead to liver damage, which can manifest as jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and gums).
Neurological Symptoms: Some dogs may exhibit confusion, disorientation, or other neurological symptoms.
Treatment of Blue-Green Algae Poisoning
If you suspect your dog has ingested or come into contact with toxic blue-green algae, it's essential to act quickly:
Seek Immediate Veterinary Care: Contact your vet or an emergency out-of-hours vet immediately.
Rinse Your Dog: If possible, rinse your dog thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue from the algae.
Do Not Induce Vomiting: Do not attempt to induce vomiting without consulting a vet, as this can worsen the situation in some cases.
Keep Your Dog Calm: Minimise your dog's activity to prevent the toxins from spreading more rapidly.
Monitor Vital Signs: Keep an eye on your dog's breathing, heart rate, and temperature.
Preventing Blue-Green Algae Poisoning
Prevention is the best strategy to protect your dog from blue-green algae poisoning. Here are some tips to keep your furry friend safe:
Stay Informed: Be aware of blue-green algae blooms in your area by checking with local authorities or using online resources.
Keep Your Dog On Their Lead: When walking near bodies of water, keep your dog on a lead to prevent them from drinking contaminated water or exploring algae-covered areas.
Avoid Swimming in Suspicious Waters: If there are signs of algae blooms, do not allow your dog to swim or play in those waters.
Provide Clean Water: Always bring fresh, clean water for your dog when you're out and about.
Learn to Recognise Blue-Green Algae: Familiarise yourself with what blue-green algae looks like to avoid contaminated areas.
Where is Blue-Green Algae Found In The UK?
Blue-green algae can commonly be found in various water bodies across the United Kingdom. They tend to thrive in freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving rivers, especially during warm summer months. These algae often form dense blooms on the water's surface, giving it a greenish or bluish tint.
Coastal areas and estuaries can also be susceptible to blue-green algae, particularly in areas where the water becomes brackish due to the mixing of freshwater and seawater.
While not all blue-green algae are toxic, it's essential for residents and visitors to be aware of local water quality advisories and exercise caution when using or allowing pets to access these water bodies to prevent potential exposure to harmful cyanobacterial toxins.
Conclusion
Toxic blue-green algae poses a severe threat to our canine companions, and it's crucial to take precautions to keep them safe. Knowing the symptoms of algae poisoning in dogs, seeking immediate veterinary care, and practicing prevention are key steps in safeguarding your pet's health. Be vigilant, stay informed, and prioritise your dog's well-being to ensure they stay healthy and happy.
Traveling with your canine companion can be an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning and the right accessories to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey for both you and your furry friend. From car travel accessories to travel beds and walking gear, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you pack the essential items for a successful trip with your dog.
Car Travel
Safety should always be a top priority when traveling with your dog in a car. It's a legal requirement to secure your dog whilst driving and there are a few ways you can do this.
Dog Seatbelts & Tethers
A dog seat belt or tether that attaches either to the ISO fix point in your car or clips into your seatbelt will help keep your furry friend secure and prevent them from moving around the vehicle, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.Our favourite is the KONG ultimate safety tether, it's great for both small and large dogs whilst travelling and has been designed with your dog's safety in mind
Dog Booster Seats
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For smaller dogs or cars with a small boot space, you may want your dog to sit in the main space of the car with you. A booster seat is an ideal choice for small breed dogs and puppies as it allows them to sit high up to see where they are going whilst keeping them secure with a harness attachment, we particularly like the Trixie car seat for dogs!
Travel Crates
Travel crates are a great option if you want to keep the main space of your car free for passengers, they fit in the boot of your car and keep your dog secure whilst traveling. For longer trips, they are a perfect safe space for your dog to rest comfortably during the journey. Make sure it's large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down.
Travel Beds
Here at L&L we have a few options which are perfect for travel.
Travel Mats
Our range of travel mats are the perfect travel companion, they come in our three most popular sizes and have a handy travel handle so you can take them with you anywhere! They roll up and fasten making them super easy to take out and about on your travels. They are perfect for popping in the boot of your car and to take along on your travels.
Sleepeze
The Sleepeze Dog Cushion is the ultimate sleep sanctuary for your pup! Super plump and cosy with extra deep hollow fibre filling, this handmade cushion comes in fun prints, with a handle for convenient portability. The perfect blend of comfort and style, the Sleepeze is great for a travel crate, as a stand-alone bed, and in the boot of your car!
Essentials Herdwick & Twill Beds
Many of our Essentials Herdwick & Twill beds have been designed with an Italian leather handle making them perfect for travel. They are designed using the most beautiful plush fabrics and fleece, perfect for home and away!
Travel Bags
Dogs come with a lot of stuff, especially if you're staying overnight somewhere. Investing in a dog-specific travel bag can be a game-change for keeping all their stuff in one place.
The Mobile Dog Gear bags are amazing, they have space for all you'll need for a weekend or a week away. These bags are designed to carry all your dog's essentials, such as food, treats, medication, waste bags, and even your dog's favourite toys. They even come with handy food storage containers and pop-up travel bowls - perfect for your staycations this summer.
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If you're out for a day the Cocopup walking bags are the perfect size for all your and your dog's essentials, they have a handy treat pouch and come in a range of colours so you're sure to find one to match your outfit!
Dog Walking
When out and about your dog you'll need either a collar or a harness with an ID tag on, the choice for this comes down to personal preference and the suitability for your dog. Collars come in a whole array of materials and sizes to suit pretty much all breeds and ages of dog. If you have a small breed dog or a puppy, perhaps a buttery soft rolled leather collar and lead will be preferable; a stylish set that will fit their small frames comfortably. If you have a larger dog, perhaps the Dogs & Horses Colours collection will be more suitable.
For more stability and comfort, a harness can be a good alternative to a collar. Particularly good for breeds such as French Bulldogs who have shorter necks, they offer extra comfort and a good level of control when out walking. Also great for the adventuring dog, offering the support needed for hiking and scrambling! Harnesses are also a must have for the car, they're great for clipping your dog's seatbelt tether or booster seat on to.
If you're going on long walks you may want to get an extendable dog lead like the Flexi comfort leads, these are great for giving your dog the freedom to explore whilst making sure they don't stray too far.
Messy Pups
If you're on a muddy walk or go for a paddle in the sea you'll want to get your dog as clean and dry as possible before they get back in the car or into your home. Don't worry we've got you covered!
Drying coats are a great fuss-free way to dry your furry friend's luscious locks off! Our Lords & Labradors drying collection comes in four colours (Fir, Mole, Navy and Gun Metal) and is made from super soft and snuggly bamboo fleecy fabric. The collection has our drying coats, mitts and cushion covers - perfect to help dry them off after a splash at the beach or muddy puddle jumping!
Dexas Mudbusters are perfect for any mucky encounters, they're an innovative way to help clean your dog's paws! Muddy paws go in and clean paws come out, super handy after trips to the park, walks, or hikes.
Keeping a pack of pet wipes to hand is always helpful, any accidents or muck can quickly be wiped away. We particularly love the Earth-Rated wipes which you can either get unscented or lavender-scented!
For once you're back home and are looking to bathe your pup after a day of mucky fun we love the PetPlex grooming collection. Formulated to salon quality standards, this grooming range really is the best of the best. Available in 4 wonderful ranges, Puppy purifier, Dirt Defeater, Curl Perfector and Derma Doctor, whatever your dog's coat type and skin requirements we're sure to have the grooming solution for them.
Travel Accessories
Travel bowls are a must! We particularly like the Beco versions which are collapsible and come in various sizes.
Charlie The Vet First Aid Kit is a must have on our packing list, it is packed full with over 40 items you may need whilst you're away. Charlie the vet created it with her may years of veterinary experience in mind, filling it with everything pet owners need on the go.
Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation and accessories. From ensuring your dog's safety in the car to providing them with a comfortable place to sleep and eat, these essential items will contribute to a seamless journey for both you and your four-legged friend. Remember to also pack any necessary medications, vaccination records, and identification tags to ensure a worry-free adventure. By planning ahead and catering to your dog's needs, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy the sights and sounds of the world together. Happy travels!
