What to look for when booking dog-friendly accommodation – a dog’s perspective
Meet Murray… he’s a Welsh Terrier from Edinburgh who likes to travel. He’s travelled all over the UK and has been reviewing dog-friendly self-catering accommodation on his way, including Saplinbrae. We thought we’d give him an interview, so we could learn more about what our four-legged guests look for when it comes to going on holiday.
Which do you prefer, hotels, guest houses or self-catering?
I decided long ago that I’m only going to do self-catering. I’ve tried hotels and guest houses, but I’m usually not allowed in restaurant or the kitchen, which of course is where the sausages are! I don’t want to be left in a tiny room, while everyone else goes out and has fun! No thank you.
What do you like the best about going on holiday?
I love to be welcomed. It doesn’t happen all the time, but I love it when there’s a goody bag waiting for me. I’ve had this at Saplinbrae and at Murrayshall – it is just the best. I like to get treats….nom nom, and a wee toy, though I like to chew up toys, so not too fussed about them. I suppose poo bags are handy, for my dad, and it saves me having to hold anything in!
What do you dislike when you’re on holiday?
Well, there’s a few grumbles I have.
I don’t like those signs “no dogs allowed”. Even when they are prefixed with “sorry”, it’s still really upsetting. It brings a tear to my eye and makes me sad.
I also don’t like it when there’s no feeding bowls. Sometimes dad forgets my special feeding bowl and just pours water from a bottle down my throat – yuk! I like to drink at my own pace, when I am ready.
Do you take your own bed?
I like my own bed; I’ve had it for a while now and it has all my nice blankies in it. If there’s no space for it in dad’s car, he’ll leave it behind. Usually, places have a spare bed kicking around, but it’s never the same as my own one.
What do you look for in dog-friendly self-catering accommodation?
Lots of space to play and chew any toys I can get a hold of. I like a big garden to run around in and it’s great if there’s other friends I can meet.
What do you do on holiday?
I like to go for walks. Eat lots of nice food and sausages – I like the herby ones, from a good butcher’s shop. Then, more walks, followed by some treats, chasing some cats or rabbits, if I’m lucky, and then dinner, and more walks. I like to rest at night and snuggle up to a coal fire or wood-burner. I sleep through the night (in my own bed, preferably – daddy, please note!), and then get up and do it all again. I’m not too fussed about the scenery, so long as there’s lots of green space, I’m good.
How many stars out of 5 would you give Saplinbrae Lodges?
I’d give it 5 out of 5. Although I can’t go into the hotel’s restaurant, there’s plenty for me to do in the lodge or outside in the garden. The log cabins are my favourite and I quite like being left alone in them…. there’s lots of windows, so I can spy on my dad and keep a lookout whilst getting up to all sorts. And I love the treats they give you on arrival. In fact, make it 6 out of 5.
Well, how very interesting! We’ve taken note of this and we’re pleased to say that we cover most of Murray’s requests! Murray, you are fine dog, and you’re welcome at Saplinbrae any time.
What to expect at Saplinbrae’s lodges for your dog:
Treats ✅
Spare dog bags ✅
Spare bed ✅
Dog bowls ✅
Garden ✅
Lots of lovely walks nearby including Aden Country Park, Pitfour Lake, and coastal walks - all on our doorstep. ✅
Dog-friendly lodges ✅
It’s a dog’s life. If you and your dog(s) would like to stay at our lodges, please get in touch. We’ll be sure to make you and your furry friends most welcome.