As a holiday let owner, deciding whether to make your property dog-friendly can be a tough call. On one hand, it opens your doors to a wider market and increases your income; on the other, it can mean extra cleaning and wear and tear.
In fact, dog-friendly holiday homes are more in demand than ever. Since the Coronavirus pandemic, pet ownership has risen by 62%, and more holidaymakers are keen to bring their furry friends along. So, should you join the growing trend of pet-friendly holiday homes?
Let’s explore the pros and cons and how you can make your Welsh holiday let the perfect retreat for dogs and their owners…
Why Dog-Friendly Holidays Are on the Rise
Pet-friendly holidays are rapidly gaining popularity in the UK. In 2023, 38% of UK holiday bookings were for dog-friendly properties, reflecting an ongoing trend.
The number of dog owners in the UK continues to rise, with an estimated 12 million dogs currently living in the country.
As pet ownership has surged, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are looking to bring their dogs along on holiday.
By allowing dogs into your holiday let, you can tap into this growing market, increase bookings, and boost your revenue.
Properties that accept dogs earn on average 11% more annually than non-pet-friendly properties, with some owners even reporting higher returns.
If you’re considering making your Welsh holiday let dog-friendly, here’s how it could benefit you:
1. Increase Your Income
Many holidaymakers prioritise pet-friendly properties when booking their getaway. A significant number of guests will skip over a property if it doesn’t allow dogs.
By welcoming dogs, you open your property to a much wider audience, tapping into a market of potential guests who would otherwise look elsewhere.
At Coast and Country Holidays, over 50% of our properties accept dogs, and many owners report seeing substantial financial benefits as a result.
2. Boost Low-Season Bookings
Dog owners tend to holiday all year round, but autumn (especially October) is a peak time for pet-friendly stays.
In autumn, many beaches lift restrictions on dogs, opening up more spaces for exploration. By accepting dogs, you’re likely to see an increase in bookings during quieter seasons when many other properties are struggling to attract guests.
This is especially true in places like Pembrokeshire, where outdoor spaces and dog-friendly beaches make it an ideal destination for pet owners. Have a look at our Dog Friendly Beaches in Pembrokeshire guide to find out the best locations for a dog-friendly stay.
3. Encourage Longer Stays
Dog owners often prefer longer holidays so that their pets can enjoy the break as much as they do. This can lead to more extended stays, helping to increase your income.
Many dog owners also dislike leaving their pets in kennels, making them more likely to book longer holidays when they can bring their dogs along for the adventure.
Considerations for Making Your Holiday Let Dog Friendly
While offering a dog-friendly policy has numerous benefits, there are a few considerations to keep in mind to ensure both pets and guests are comfortable:
1. Wear and Tear
Though most dogs are well-behaved, accidents can happen. Here’s how to minimise potential damage and wear and tear:
- Child Gates: Install gates to block off certain areas, such as bedrooms or rooms with expensive furnishings.
- Pet-Friendly Flooring: Consider opting for easy-to-clean flooring, like lino or tiles, especially in high-traffic areas like the entrance and kitchen.
- Mud Rooms or Utility Areas: If you have a separate space for wet or muddy dogs to dry off, this will help keep the rest of the house clean and tidy.
Top Tip: A doggy towel near the entrance is a simple yet thoughtful touch, particularly during wet weather!
2. Allergic Guests
While allergies to pet hair are rare, it’s important to ensure your property is allergy-friendly for all guests. To keep your property spotless for everyone:
- Deep Clean After Every Stay: Invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner and ensure soft furnishings are cleaned regularly.
3. Dog-Proof Your Property
Ensuring the safety of pets is a top priority. Here are some important steps to dog-proof your holiday let:
- Enclosed Gardens: Secure your outdoor space with fencing and check regularly for gaps. Chicken wire is a great way to prevent smaller dogs from escaping.
- Poison-Free Gardens: Remove plants that may be harmful to dogs, such as daffodils, ivy, and lilies. Also, be cautious about using weed killers or pesticides around your garden; make sure they’re applied well in advance of your guest’s arrival.
- Provide Dog Essentials: Dog bowls, a bed, blankets, and waste bags are thoughtful additions that will make dogs feel at home and help save guests the hassle of bringing their own.
Top Tip: A “dog welcome pack” with treats, as well as a list of local dog-friendly attractions, is an easy way to impress guests and make their stay even more enjoyable.
Why Pembrokeshire is Perfect for Dogs
Pembrokeshire is one of the best dog-friendly locations in the UK. The region offers miles of stunning coastal walks, dog-friendly beaches, and welcoming cafes for both dogs and their owners to enjoy.
By offering a pet-friendly holiday let in Pembrokeshire, you cater to a growing market of dog-loving guests. Head to our pet friendly cottages page to browse our full range of dog-friendly properties.
Top Dog-Friendly Attractions in Pembrokeshire:
- Barafundle Bay: A beautiful and dog-friendly beach that offers a peaceful environment for both pets and owners.
- Bosherston Lily Ponds: A picturesque walking trail that’s perfect for a day out with your dog.
- Narberth’s Dog-Friendly Cafes: Relax with a coffee at one of the many dog-friendly cafes while your dog enjoys the attention.
Why Work with Coast and Country Holidays?
Managing a dog-friendly holiday home can be a lot of work, but at Coast and Country Holidays, we make it easy for you. Our full-service management includes:
- Housekeeping and Maintenance: We ensure your property is thoroughly cleaned and well-maintained after each guest.
- Inspections and Feedback: Our team carries out regular inspections and provides detailed feedback to ensure your property stays in excellent condition.
- Health and Safety Compliance: From fire risk assessments to ensuring your property meets all necessary legal requirements, we’ve got you covered.
- Regulations Support: Stay on top of compliance and avoid the stress of keeping up with legal regulations.
By partnering with us, you can enjoy the benefits of running a dog-friendly holiday let without the hassle of day-to-day management!
