Holidays with the Dog
Don't leave them behind, bring them with you!
Italy is the third country in Europe for the number of pets per capita, right after the Netherlands! We've earned a nice bronze medal and have so many dogs we’d love to take on vacation!
Holidays with Your Dog: Planning, Paperwork, and Choosing the Perfect Stay!
Before picking the best accommodation for a holiday with your dog, make sure all the paperwork is in order—not just for you, but also for your furry friend!
What to Prepare Before Traveling with Your Dog
If you're traveling within Italy, you just need an up-to-date health booklet with all vaccinations and, of course, a microchip (which is mandatory). However, if you plan to travel abroad with your dog—or for those coming from other European countries to Italy—you’ll need a Pet Passport. This is issued by the local ASL with all mandatory vaccinations, especially the rabies vaccine (and make sure it’s been at least 21 days since the first dose).
For non-European countries, there aren’t universal rules for allowing pets to enter or transit through. It’s best to check with your local ASL or the consular authorities of the destination country to stay up-to-date with any specific requirements!
Holidays with Your Dog: Choosing a Place to Stay
Once all the documents are set, it's time to choose a stay that suits you best! If you'd love a relaxing holiday in a unique setting, consider the charm of sleeping in a trullo. Options like Trulli Sampaolo in Gioia del Colle or Trullo Mario in Alberobello offer a cozy stay, while Trullo Oleandro is ideal for larger groups. If historic masserias are more your style, you can choose from several stunning spots like Casapietra in Monopoli's countryside, Masseria Minetti in Cisternino, or Villa Barbara, also in Monopoli.
First Aid Kit for a Stress-Free Dog Holiday
For a worry-free vacation with your dog, be sure to bring along all the essentials for pet first aid. Items like a disinfectant for minor scrapes, mosquito repellent, cortisone for wasp or bee stings, anti-diarrhea meds, and any necessary anti-inflammatory medicines are good to have on hand.
Manners for Dogs and Owners Alike
Taking your dog on holiday can be challenging if they’re not used to new places or crowds. Just like people, pets need to be well-mannered, and owners should be mindful of others who may not be comfortable around dogs.
When going to a restaurant, always check ahead to see if dogs are allowed, and inform any pet-friendly accommodation about your dog’s arrival or specific needs. Bringing covers for sofas and beds to catch fur, ensuring your dog doesn't relieve itself indoors, and inspecting for any damages to report are all helpful tips to keep everyone happy. More and more beaches welcome dogs, but it’s a good idea to confirm which areas allow pets to be off-leash or in the water.
Happy holidays with your dog! 🐾