Paws And Passport: Pet-Friendly Travel Destinations For Female Travellers

Lifestyle Collective, September 9, 2023

By Karen Espig

Solo travel is an enriching and enjoyable experience that many female travellers are embracing. But what if you have a fur baby under your care? Well, thankfully, that doesn’t have to stop you. Let’s look at some great options and helpful hints.

First of all, what makes a place “pet friendly“? Typically, this designation means “dog-friendly”, so if your escort is a cat or some other animal, it would be wise to confirm acceptability with your accommodations and travel provider.

As the phrase suggests, you can expect your accommodation host to be an animal lover like yourself. Regarding pet-friendly transportation, there are typically regulations (sometimes quite specific) that must be followed. If travelling across borders, you will need thorough documentation or a pet passport to prove your animal friend’s health. If you fail to provide the proper papers, you could be turned away at the border, or your pet will be quarantined for a period if you continue through.

Be sure to bring your pet’s medications, accessories, and, of course, those doggie-doo doo bags!

Canada

Canada is a big place with an extensive park infrastructure and a friendly attitude towards people and animals alike. Being a solo female traveller is commonplace.

In public spaces, dogs should be leashed and tagged, but not to worry, many dog parks are available where they can have a good run and socialise with their canine pals. Veterinary services are also readily available and top-notch!

If you wish to visit a big metropolis, Vancouver, in particular, is known for being dog-friendly. Almost 40 off-leash parks are scattered across the city, so perhaps view your options and book your accommodations accordingly. Note that these parks are generally shared use.

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It is essential to state that pets cannot legally be indoors at restaurants in Canada or most places in the USA (other than service animals) but are welcome on some patios and outdoor areas. Camping areas generally are pet-friendly, but check ahead of time.

USA

Like Canada, the United States has an extensive network of hiking and wild areas that are fantastic pet-friendly options. National parks allow for dogs on developed trails and areas. Some even offer activities for them. One super resource for all your USA destinations is GoPetFriendly.

If you are looking for a fun city experience for yourself, try Las Vegas, Nevada! It’s more pet-friendly than you might expect, with some Cesar hotels having dedicated Petstay rooms with pee-pads, food dishes and mats for pooches under 50 pounds.

Germany

Germany ranks high in dog-friendliness, with about 70% of hotels allowing for pets, as do many restaurants (indoor and out) and shops. However, you will find that German dogs are held to a high standard of behaviour. It would be appreciated if your fur-baby aligned with this. Dogs are welcome on public transit, with small dogs in carriers and larger ones on a short leash. It sometimes requires extra payment for single-use rides.

Berlin is particularly pet-friendly, with many dedicated accommodations and tours in addition to exercise areas. The massive 519-acre Tiergarten park is very dog friendly with cafés, music presentation areas, gardens and memorials. Check out the Gas Light Open Air Museum for a step back in history.

Visiting Germany during the holidays is an extra-special treat, and walking with your dogs through the Christmas markets is definitely allowed and an excellent way to get into the seasonal spirit. 

Beach Vacations

If the seaside is what you are looking for, there are many pet-friendly beaches to choose from. France has a few, with the number increasing during the off-season.

The gorgeous Crikvenica Riviera in Croatia has pet-friendly beaches with dedicated doggie amenities, such as showers, food, and play areas. 

If you love Italy, you are also in luck. Lido di Fido in Grado, Italy, boasts a beautiful beach area, animal amenities, and small fenced areas so you can lounge and relax knowing your friend is safely contained.

You are certainly not limited to these countries; many destinations you want to visit will have options for you and your furry friend. When researching accommodations, be sure to include the pet-friendly filter; if in doubt, send an email directly to the host. There are also many groups on social media with great information and tips. 

It is worth noting that within most regions, there are specific places where it is not allowed or inappropriate to bring animals. In particular, farms, zoos, or nature reserves generally do not permit it as it disturbs the resident animals. Establishments such as museums, religious buildings, medical facilities, and high-end restaurants often are no-go for dogs. Usually, places that sell food (grocery stores and some bakeries) do not allow pets either.

With careful planning, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and allow for a smoother, more enjoyable vacation for you and your furry companion.