FOR many of us, our dogs are considered one of the family — and they are treated as such in our homes.
But when we go on holiday, we often have to leave our furry friends behind in the care of pet sitters or kennels.
Ireland is slowly becoming more pet friendly, with pubs such as Jack’s Bar Restaurant Garden in Kells, Brewdog in Dublin and Crew Brewing Co in Limerick now allowing dogs to join their owners for a pint.
But pet lovers now want more shops, restaurants and bars to follow suit.
Here, dog mum Nicola Bardon has found some staycations for you and your pooch to enjoy together
Ardilaun Hotel and Leisure Club
GALWAY is quickly earning a name for itself as one of the country’s most pet-friendly locations.
At the Ardilaun Hotel and Leisure Club, dogs are welcome in its Garden Rooms, which have a patio area so they can easily access the gardens for walkies or toilet time.
Dogs are allowed in most areas of the hotel except the restaurants and bar.
If you do want to eat with your furry friend, the Ardilaun has an outdoor area, which has a covered section in case the Irish summer makes an appearance.
The Twelve
MANY dog lovers will have heard of this stylish hotel just 20 minutes from Galway’s centre.
Dogs receive a welcome bag filled with treats, poo bags and a soft toy at check-in.
There are three pet suites, which have a dog bed, map with the perfect walks marked and a menu.
Dogs are welcome in every area of the hotel at no extra fee and you are free to leave them in the room while you go out.
The Ballinadee Bus
FANCY a holiday that’s a bit different?
The Ballinadee Bus in Cork is a chance to stay in a former double-decker that has been converted into a homestay for up to six people.
As seen on Dermot Bannon’s Super Small Spaces, there are two buses with wifi, air conditioning, a hot tub and hammocks. Or you can pitch a tent at the campsite.
Ballinadee Bus even has its own rescue farm, with donkeys, alpacas, cows and pigs.
You can also enjoy the views with a drink at the outdoor bar or coffee shop.
Dunmore House Hotel
IF YOU are headed south, check into the Dunmore House Hotel in Clonakilty, Cork, where it is free of charge to bring up to three pets.
Dogs are welcome in all areas of the hotel, except the Michelin-recommended Adrift restaurant.
But they can join you for breakfast in the lounge instead.
There are five pet-friendly ground-floor rooms, each with a balcony overlooking the iconic Wild Atlantic Way and walk-in showers.
You will also find doggy treats around the hotel.
Ocean Sands Hotel
IN SLIGO, you can find the pet-loving beachside hotel.
There are eight dog-friendly rooms available, as well as self-catering apartments with a patio on the ground floor.
Rooms are as close as possible to the main door for your four-legged pal’s night-time toilet trips.
Dogs are allowed to join you in the lobby area at designated pet tables.
Ocean Sands Hotel welcomes up to two dogs per room, but you have to bring your own lead and dog bed. Book on the phone to guarantee a dog room.
The Glasson Lakehouse
THE Glasson Lakehouse, in Co Westmeath, has views of Athlone and gorgeous grounds to explore with your pet to tire them out before a cocktail or pint on the outdoor terrace at Tom’s Pub, or in the lobby.
The exclusive Doggy Rooms come with everything you need including blankets, water bowls, tasty treats and plenty of space for them to have fun.
Dogs are allowed in all areas of the hotel except Bonnie’s restaurant.
The front desk can recommend dog-friendly places nearby and provide maps, trails and picnic spots.
