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If you’re someone that loves animals, you’re not alone. Infact, according to the American Pet Products Association, 66% of U.S. households (86.9 million homes) owned a pet in 2023. This rise in owning animals also correlates to those that are planning trips to see animals or incorporating their own pets with the places they go. If you’re wondering some top tips and ideas for animal lovers and how you can add this to your 2024 goals and ideas, we have put together the article for you. Keep on reading to get inspired and see how you can make the most of your travel this year.
How can you travel with your pet?
When it comes to travelling with your pet, there are many more options than there once were. Infact, more and more hotels are incorporating pets into their marketing strategy, which makes it so much easier for animal lovers to not have to put their furry friend into a kennel or cattery. Some top tips for travelling with your pet includes:
Find a hotel that is pet friendly
One of the first things you can do when it comes to travelling with your pet, is to find a pet friendly hotel. There are more of these now than ever and many even include little pooch packages so you get things such as a water bowl, treats and dog bed to save you bringing items from home. These types of accommodation can range from luxury, high-end hotels, to boutique lodges or caravans. Be sure when you’re booking that you’ve got a pet friendly room and find out if there are any extra fees that might be incurred for bringing your pet with you. Some places charge an extra cleaning fee just in case your furry friend does bring in any mud from outside on their paws or to get rid of the smell for the next guest. Do your research and you’re sure to find the perfect place for a getaway with your pooch.
Think about how you’re going to get to your destination
The next thing you want to do when looking at how to travel with your pet, is to think about how you’re going to get to your destination. There are many modes of transport but you don’t want to take your dog onboard only to be denied getting any further. Whether you’re going abroad or staying in the UK, you need to consider the best way you’re going to get to your place of accommodation so doing research ahead of time stops any unwelcome surprises. If you’re going to be travelling by taxi, be sure they know you’ll be bringing a pet with you. Small domestic dogs can go on travel modes such as the Eurostar provided they’re in a dog carrier, or those that are bigger will need a specific “dog fare” ticket.
Consider what you want to do when you’re there
When travelling with your pet, you don’t want to get to your destination only to find out that there is nothing for your pooch to do in the area. To avoid this, look up things to do when you’re in the area before you go and make sure there’s plenty to keep them occupied. If your pet gets bored, they might end up having an accident or damaging items in the hotel room if they’re left. Find a place with good walking routes, dog parks and beaches. These are all great for stimulating your pet and keeping them happy – as well as tiring them out for the evening!
What are some great destinations for animal lovers?
When it comes to finding a destination that’s great for animal lovers, the world is awash with places to go. Depending if you’re looking to visit a safari for lions and elephants, want to see whales in the wild or see turtles hatching on a beach, there is something for everyone. Consider what you want to get from your travel experience and how you can do so authentically. Think about the time of year you’re going to be going, what the weather will be like and the activities you plan on doing when you’re there. These can all help you make the best and most informed decision.
Safari in Africa
Africa is one of the greatest destinations in the world to see safari and there are many places you can do it, from luxury tours to those that involve getting down with nature. Think about how much you want to spend and where you want to go. Some tours are longer than others and involve different animals and experiences. For getting up close to some of the most majestic creatures on the planet, this is a real no-brainer and is a bucket list trip for most people.
Cats in Spain
Spain is a country which you might be surprised to hear has a lot of stray cats! If you’re looking for somewhere to go and see lots of these beautiful felines, it’s a great spot to visit. There are also many cats in Spain which need homing, so ensure you go to a reputable cat adoption facility or shelter to find the right one for you. Being such a cat friendly place, there are a host of cat friendly cafes and establishments you can visit, both with your cat or if you just want to see the others that people bring with them. Many cat sanctuaries are also open around the different towns and cities actively working to help the welfare of cats in Spain.
Elephants in Thailand
Thailand is one of the most beautiful places in the world and is known for its sacred animal – the elephant. There are a host of elephant sanctuaries in Thailand working to help the wellbeing of elephants. There are many places in Thailand that exploit elephants so be sure to check out any facilities before visiting. If they offer tourist experiences such as elephant rides, they should be steered clear of.
Whales in New Zealand
If you’re more of a marine lover, why not head to New Zealand where you can see whales in their natural habitat? There are some beautiful whales here, including The Gray’s, Arnoux, Cavier’s and the Southern strap-toothed whale which are the most common species you’ll find over here. Varying in size from 3 to 13 metres, they make for a spectacular sight not to be missed. We recommend going on a boat trip early in the morning or before sunset to make the most of your experience and also witness some absolutely stunning views as well. These aren’t to be missed!
How can you help animals abroad from further afield?
Travel tips for animal lovers doesn’t necessarily just cover those people that are looking to travel immediately and go to far afield destinations. Infact, if you’re looking to incorporate your love for travel and animals in one, it’s a good idea to look at what you can do from the comfort of your home. Too often animals in the travel industry are exploited for the sake of tourists, but there are many things you can do to try and help this. From raising awareness to adopting an animal and bringing them back to the UK, there are a number of choices.
Donate to an animal charity
While you might feel helpless being abroad, a good way that you can help animals from further afield is to donate to an animal charity. There are many animal charities set up that cover all sorts of animals, both big and small. Find one that’s close to your heart or that you feel passionately about and donate to them either as a one off or on a regular basis. This can help greatly.
Adopt an animal from abroad
As well as physically adopting an animal, you can also pay funds to adopt an animal in a sanctuary. This means you don’t have them live with you, but you can pay for their wellbeing such as to have shelter, medical care and to be fed. It’s a great way to help if you can’t have a pet where you’re living but want to help.
These are just a few top tips and pieces of information that should help you to marry together your love for animals with your love for travel and exploring the globe. Whether you want to help adopt a stray dog from another country, see some exotic animals in their natural habitat, or bring your beloved pet away with you, there’s so many options. What are your travel plans this year? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
