THE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE searching for dog-friendly camping and caravan sites are romping ahead of last winter’s levels, a leading independent holiday parks website reports.
Caravan Sitefinder says the figures suggest that 2021 will be Fido’s finest year as more families opt for a UK holiday with their four-legged friends.
The website lists just over 4,800 parks which welcome dogs, with many of them putting pooches on a pedestal by offering a host of canine comforts.
Warm showers for muddy mutts, special exercise areas, dog-sitting services, and guides to local dog-friendly attractions, restaurants and beaches are all on offer.
There are even parks with dedicated doggie washing machines and tumble dryers to ensure that Bonzo’s bedding is always freshly laundered.
“Many families hate being separated from their pets when they go away, but the staycation trend will mean far fewer sad farewells next year,” said Caravan Sitefinder boss Michael Paul.
“Our website receives almost one million visitors a year, and in the past few months, the number of people searching for pet-friendly parks has more than doubled from last winter.
“We have literally thousands of parks which can solve their dog dilemma at a stroke, and parks and campsites are ideal places to stay as most are virtually traffic-free.
“Dogs benefit as much as humans from a change of scenery, and owners won’t have to fret that their pets are pining for them in expensive boarding kennels far away,” added Michael.
He said that extra demand for pet-friendly accommodation in 2021 is likely to be created by the widely reported boom in puppy sales during this year’s lockdowns.
“Our overall number of website visitors has been soaring in recent months, and perhaps suggests that many people are feeling uncertain about going abroad next year.
“Many parks welcome well-behaved and properly controlled dogs, and of course they are also a great way to get youngsters out and about in the fresh air,” said Michael.
Caravan Sitefinder offers a free facility for families torhome or tent, or renting a holiday caravan or lodge.
Families wanting top doggie destinations this year can visit the Caravan Sitefinder website at www.caravansitefinder.co.uk