It’s the holiday season so you’re probably looking for a new destination to travel to with the whole family. But while you already have packed your bags and you’re thinking of that great welcoming cocktails at the resort, who is going to babysit your pet?
Animal daycares might be a good solution unless you trust your friends, family members or neighbors to come in a couple of times a day to feed your pet, change its bedding, give it water, and spend some quality time with it.
If you’re not fond of leaving your furry baby at home with anyone else, taking it with you on vacations might seem like the logical solution.
And, since there are millions of other families just like you who do that every year, all you need is to find the perfect destination. Don’t forget your pet’s traveling kit either, complete with a Guinea pig water bottle, toys, and a carrier or a cage.
Here is a list of the most welcoming countries and places in the world for you and your pet.
Switzerland
Switzerland is probably the country with the strictest animal laws in the entire world. Here, it is forbidden to sell or buy animals at pet shops, puppies must stay with their mother for at least 56 days after birth, and social species like yaks, birds, and fish must always have a companion.
There are also plenty of pet-friendly hotels and guest homes across the country, meaning it is the perfect place for all your family members.
Switzerland is also an active destination throughout the year, with plenty of activities you can perform depending on the season. Of course, winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are extremely popular in the country, while during the summertime you can go hiking, visiting or relaxing near some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
Hong Kong
If you always wanted to catch a glimpse of the Asian culture and customs, Hong Kong allows you to enjoy this alongside your animal. The country is also known for its strict animal laws, meaning it is a safe place to travel for you and your pet.
As you might suspect, there are various hotels that offer special daycares for animals while others welcome you to bring along your pets on the premises.
Pet cafes are also extremely popular, so feel free to bring along your cat or dog to some of them and help them make new friends.
Australia
Aussies also have relaxed policies when it comes to dogs tagging along in public means of transportation, parks, beaches, restaurants, and hotels. However, you should check with the local authorities before thinking of bringing your pet with you into the country as there are some strict rules.
You’ll be surprised to find out that Australia doesn’t welcome animals that don’t already live on the continent such as foxes, squirrels, gerbils, hamsters, rabbits, dingoes, monkeys, and ferrets. The reason behind these strict rules is that there are no natural predators for these animals in Australia, meaning they could easily increase their population and become potential pests.
France
Paris is the most popular tourist destination in the world, welcoming 18-23 million people every year. And, while most of them come for the romantic Eiffel Tour, the breathtaking castles, and the delicious foods and wines, some choose this destination because it is pet-friendly.
France has one of the most relaxed dog policies but other pets are welcome too. Almost every hotel and castle welcomes your pawed friend for free or for a small fee, while plenty of restaurants will make sure your pooch enjoys its dinner, just like you.
You shouldn’t be surprised to see a puppy having its own seat at the table, enjoying the adult conversations of its companions.