I am a person who believes that a holiday is not a holiday without a four-legged friend. My dog is my family. This is a sentiment shared by many people across the globe. According to a Pew Research Center study, 62% of Americans own a pet. Even more impressive is that 97% of these owners consider their pets to be family. Therefore, I always look for vacations for dogs and their owners when I plan my next escape. I want to share my personal journey through some Unique Dog Friendly Experiences – Soccer Games and Outdoor Activities in Italy and beyond. I have started to write my own Dog Bucket List Book to keep track of these adventures. Life is short. We must make the most of it. My senior rescue dog deserves to see the world before his time comes. This is our Dog bucket list before death.
The Rugged Beauty of the Italian Alps
First of all, let us talk about the mountains. I spent six weeks trekking through the Swiss and Italian Alps with my dog. At that time, I found very little information online about which routes were safe. Some people even claimed that dogs were not allowed in the Alps. This is not true. Dogs are welcome in these majestic peaks. We explored trails around Zermatt and Saas Fee. We even walked the Tour de Monte Rosa.
The transport system in the Alps is surprisingly accommodating. Dogs can ride on cable cars, trains, boats, and buses. Usually, there is no charge for dogs on cable cars or local trains. However, if your dog is taller than 30cm and not in a carrier, you might need a half-fare ticket for certain bus routes.
Safety is a priority in the wild. The weather can change from 30 degrees to a snowstorm in a single day. I always make sure my dog stays hydrated. I offer her water every time I have a drink. Additionally, I watch out for local wildlife. Ibex are common on high routes. These mountain goats often stand their ground. You must control your dog so they do not try to follow an Ibex off a cliff. On top of that, I worry about snakes. There are two types of poisonous snakes in the Alps, but bites are rare. Only one person has died from a snake bite there since the 1960s. I carry Benadryl in my first aid kit just in case.
Gradually, I learned about Leishmaniasis. This disease comes from sandflies in Southern Europe. It is incurable but preventable. I use Scalibor collars and Advantix treatments. I also avoid walks at dusk and dawn when flies are active. These small steps keep my best friend safe.
Truffle Hunting in the Heart of Tuscany
Later, we moved south to the rolling hills of Tuscany. The Tuscan white truffle is a gourmet treasure. Many people travel to Alba for the famous festival, but Tuscany offers a more intimate experience. The white truffles found near Siena and Pisa are just as flavoursome.
Truffle hunting is an ancient art. The hunters, or Trifolau, often hunt at night. They do this because the scent of the truffle is stronger in the cool night air. It also helps them keep their secret spots hidden from rivals. Historically, people used pigs to find truffles. Pigs are a problem because they like to eat the truffles. Dogs are much better partners. Plus, a dog is easier to fit into the back of a car.
A good hunting dog takes about four years to train. They start by finding pieces of strong-smelling cheese buried in the ground. Eventually, they move on to the real thing. In San Miniato, I met Massimo Cucchiara. His family has hunted truffles for many years. He offers special packages that include a hunt, a cooking class, and a tasting. White truffles should be eaten fresh and never cooked. On the contrary, black truffles need to be sautéed in butter to release their flavour.
Finally, do not forget the Venetian Water Taxis if you visit Venice. Most private boats in the city allow dogs. It is a unique way to see the canals without the crowds. This is a highlight for any Dog vacations itinerary.
Canal Boat Adventures in the United Kingdom
Though Italy is beautiful, the United Kingdom offers some of the best Dog-friendly vacation packages. I recently tried a canal boat holiday with ABC Boat Hire. It is a world away from rushed roadside walks. You and your pup can gaze through the porthole at ripples in the water.
The booking process is simple. You just let them know about your dog on the form. They allow a maximum of two dogs per boat. Best of all, dogs stay for free. You must return the boat in good condition, though.
Preparation is key for a smooth sail. I packed a life jacket and a harness with a handle. Waterways can be tricky for dogs to exit if they fall in. I also brought her favourite blankets to make the cabin feel like home.
Locks are the most difficult part of the trip. I suggest keeping your dog in the cabin when you navigate a lock. This reduces stress for everyone. Similarly, be mindful of the wildlife. Do not let your dog bark at the birds or chase them. It disrupts the peace of the canal.
If your dog gets motion sickness, take regular breaks during the drive to the marina. Plan your mooring spots so your dog has a large space to run. Do not let your dog swim in the canal. The water can contain fatal infections. Safety first, always.
Steam Trains and Glamping Retreats
On top of the boat trips, the UK has wonderful Dog-friendly road trips near me. The Epping-Ongar Railway is a historic steam train experience. It is located just outside London. Well-behaved dogs can ride for free.
The journey starts at Epping station on the Central Line. You catch an old red double-decker bus to the North Weald station. The train station looks like a scene from a movie. There is a dog-friendly cafe and shop. I exchanged my online ticket for an old-fashioned cardboard one.
The train has a magnificent steam locomotive. It blows white clouds of steam as it passes under bridges. The carriages have romantic wooden frames and old seats. We spotted cows and sheep in the fields on the way to Ongar. In Ongar, we visited the Cock Tavern. It is a dog-friendly pub with its own resident dog named John MacLane.
For overnight stays, ToWander UK has a great collection of Dog-friendly vacation resorts. We stayed at Ewe Glamping in Northamptonshire. It is a shepherd’s hut on the banks of the Grand Union Canal. It has underfloor heating and a copper bath. My dog loved the nearby footpaths and rolling countryside. Another great option is Woodland Chase Cabins in Northumberland. You can relax in a wood-fired hot tub after a day on the coast. These spots are perfect for people who want luxury without leaving the dog behind.
The High Life: Dog-Friendly Wineries in Napa Valley
However, if you want something truly posh, you must head to California. Napa Valley is a paradise for wine lovers and their pets. I researched many spots to find the best ones.
Migration Winery is perhaps the most dog-friendly spot in the region. They offer a Barkuterie Board for $15. My dog, Wallace, felt like a king. He ate gourmet treats while I sipped Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The staff gave him so much love.
Another unique spot is Tamber Bey Vineyards. It is located on a 22-acre horse farm. You can taste wine while you mingle with horses, including Mustangs and miniature horses. There is even a dog park on the grounds where your pup can stretch their legs.
Pine Ridge Vineyards offers a more relaxed vibe. You can enjoy bottle service in their garden. They gave Wallace a water bowl and a stylish bandana. You can even bring your own picnic to save money.
Frog’s Leap Winery has a perfect “vibe”. Their Garden Bar is like an English retreat. They practice organic farming and have a resident dog named Silvia. They only ask that your dog does not pee in the vegetable garden. That seems like a fair deal.
Luxury Travel and “Doga” Sessions
Additionally, the world of pet travel is changing fast. Airlines are responding to the demand for better service. BARK Air is a new experience designed specifically for dogs. They use calming pheromones and provide noise-canceling earmuffs. Dogs even get a beverage during takeoff to help with ear pressure. A domestic ticket costs $6,000 for one human and one dog.
VistaJet also offers a service called VistaPet. Their crew members are trained in pet CPR. They provide sleep mats and prime cuts of meat. In 2023, they saw a 43% increase in pets flying on their planes.
If flying is too much, try Dog Yoga, or “doga”. Pups&Yoga hosts sessions in places like Canada and the United States. It is a blend of traditional poses and the joyful company of dogs. It creates an environment where humans and dogs connect through shared energy. Interacting with dogs can lower cortisol levels and increase oxytocin. This is a powerful way to reduce stress.
Similarly, you can take your dog to the movies. Picturehouse Cinemas in the UK hosts dog-friendly screenings. They lower the volume because dogs have “superhero hearing”. They provide blankets for the seats and water bowls. In Texas, K9 Cinemas offers unlimited drinks for humans and treats for dogs. A ticket is only $15. It is a great way to meet fellow dog lovers.
Health and Wellness on the Road
On top of the fun, we must think about our dogs’ fitness. Canicross is a sport where your dog runs in front of you while attached by a bungee line. It is a great way to bond and stay healthy. You need a good harness, a bungee line, and a waist belt.
Dogs should be at least 12 to 18 months old before they start canicross. You should start with short sessions and use positive reinforcement. I use verbal cues like “Gee” for right and “Haw” for left. Always warm up before you run to prevent injuries.
If you want something less intense, try a Puppy Therapy experience. It is a win-win for everyone. Humans get a boost in serotonin, and puppies learn socialisation skills. These sessions cost about £26 in cities like Birmingham and Leeds.
Finally, remember that senior dogs need special care. My dog has arthritis, but she still loves the fresh air. Beth Reser takes her blind 13-year-old Yorkie mix on trips to the beach and mountains. She uses a stroller or a backpack when the terrain is too rough. Julie Ward planned a bucket-list staycation for her dog, Millie, before saying goodbye. They visited friends, had a photoshoot, and snuggled on a pallet of pillows.
FAQ
Can dogs ride the water taxis in Venice?
Yes, most private hire boats in Venice allow dogs on board. This is a unique way to see the city canals.
How are truffle dogs trained in Italy?
It is a long process. It takes about four years for a dog to become fully trained. Additionally, hunters train dogs from a young age with pieces of strong-smelling cheese. They eventually use small truffles to help the dog learn the scent.
Are dogs allowed on cable cars in the Alps?
Dogs are welcome on cable cars and local trains. Usually, there is no charge for your pet to ride these lifts. However, buses often require a half-fare ticket if the dog is taller than 30cm and not in a carrier.
What diseases should I worry about in Southern Europe?
Leishmaniasis is a serious disease from sandflies in Southern Europe. On top of that, it is incurable but preventable. You should use special collars or treatments to protect your dog.
Concluding words
Italy offers a mix of nature and culture for you and your dog. You can walk the Alps or go truffle hunting in Tuscany. Pure magic. Venice also welcomes pets on its private water taxis. These outdoor activities help you build a strong bond with your dog.
Safety first. Therefore, keep your pet hydrated and protected from local pests. Your pet deserves a spot on your next big adventure. I have drawn this response from the available details on other outdoor activities.
