How to Plan a Pet-Friendly Staycation in Your Neck of the Woods

Posted by Billy Francis

Organizing a long-distance trip with your four-legged travel partner can be expensive and stressful (for both of you). However, there’s another way to get away and relax without the added complications of travel. Escape Fido’s regular routine without stepping a paw outside of his state on a staycation right in your backyard.

See the Local Sights With BringFido

“You’re telling me this has been next door all along?” Photo by @al_godin

You don’t need to spend hours researching the best dog-friendly activities, restaurants and more just beyond your door. Find everything you need to fill the days in your hometown on BringFido’s site or app for iOS or Android. In addition to taking day trips to hidden local gems you’ve never heard of, you can check out those places you always wanted to explore but haven’t gotten around to visiting yet.

Check Out to Check In

"Will you clock out for lunch already?" Photo by @noodlenouille

Once you’ve drawn up a staycation itinerary, turn off your devices and take a break from screens for a while. Use this newfound time to rediscover your best friend’s charming personality. Transform the backyard into a dog park together, plant a pet-friendly garden, or simply go for a long walk around the neighborhood. Whatever you do together, make the most of every moment without the distractions of everyday life.

Transform Your Home Into Your Dream Destination

“If we can’t go to Puerto Rico, we’ll bring Puerto Rico to us!” Photo by Daniel Reyes on Unsplash

There are places in the world that Fido may never get to visit, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take him there in spirit. Why not treat your German Shepherd to a bratwurst and a bottle of HeinieSniff’n? Or, build a scale model of Big Ben for your Mutt Queen? Get creative and bring your exotic holiday home with flags, decor, food and music that will get the whole family into the travel spirit.

Drift Away With a Spa Day

“Cukes for this cutie.” Photo by @sweetiepeters

Queue the calming music, slip on Fido’s best robe and slip away to a tropical island (in your mind). An in-home spa treatment can be nearly as relaxing as sunbathing on the beach, and it’s a lot more budget-friendly. After your own bubble bath, start Fido’s journey to relaxation with a Warren London Cleopatra's Full Body Treatment Dog Milk Bath. Infused with honey and natural milk powder, this will turn any bath-dodging dog into a tub-dwelling Pug in no time.  You can also reuse your chamomile tea bags as a soothing eye mask for Fido while you give him a doggy massage on the sun lounger.

Share a Picnic

“I’m glad you brought a hot dog!” Photo by @the.amazing.odin

Pack a basket full of your pooch’s favorite foods for a makeshift “barkuterie” board and head out to find the perfect spot for a picnic. Whether you’re in your local park or on a secluded hike near home, you’ll both get to enjoy the fresh air and tasty treats. If you're stuck for edible ideas, check out these mouthwatering recipes for the “pawfect” picnic.

Glamp at Home

“I think we’re going to need a bigger tent!” Photo by Anna Dudkova on Unsplash

After a long day exploring new places nearby, keep the staycation going at bedtime! Swap Fido’s boring old dog bed for a luxury campsite. If you can’t go to a glamorous glamping spot, turn your back garden into one with a DIY teepee or a pillow fort using your plushest pillows, coziest blankets and bounciest bedding. You can even get a tent just for your furry camper.

Get Crafty

“You should insure my paws for a million dollars.” Photo by @ivykitetheaussie

Being crafty doesn’t just mean stealing cookies when your owner’s back is turned, Fido. One of the best things about a vacation is trying new things. Make your staycation unforgettable by capturing your pup’s paw print. This kit and frame comes with everything you need to make a memorable memento.

Give a Foster Dog a Staycation at Your House

“Just looking for a place to stay(cation).” Photo by @thedogmatchmaker

While you’re enjoying time at home, remember that there are dogs out there who would love to get away for awhile. Make a shelter dog’s dream come true by inviting her over for a holiday with your pack! Fostering helps reduce overcrowding and opens up space for another animal to be saved. Contact your local shelter to find out about taking one of their precious pups on a staycation to your house.

How will you spend your staycation with Fido? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by Crystal Milán.