Planning to bring your four-legged friend to a Center Parcs village in the UK? Here's everything you need to know to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Essential Packing List for Dogs
- Dog beds and blankets (furniture is off-limits)
- Food and water bowls
- Plenty of poop bags
- Favorite toys
- Any medications
- Towels for muddy paws and maybe even consider some Doggy Dry Shampoo
- Dog first aid kit.
- Tick removal tools for dogs. You're in a forrest, there will be long grass so there is going to be a risk of your dog picking up a tick.
- If you have a particuarly long drive or your dog is anxious consider a Pheromone Spray to help clam your dog down
Top Tips for a Successful Stay
- Book a designated dog-friendly lodge early - they get booked up quickly. Do not try take a dog to a non-dig friendly lodge. Dog lodges have different, harder wearing furniture and have a different cleaning regiment. Plus be considerate of people with allergies.
- Research local vet details before arrival. The staff in the Village Center/Guest Services will be able to help too but worth doing your own 5 minutes of research before heading.
- Plan dog walks during quieter times. Mornings and evening being quieter, during the day expect prams, bikes, scooters and lots of excited kids.
- Pack familiar items to help your dog settle
- Consider a bringing a crate if your dog uses one at home. You can pick convenient collapsable dog creates for around £40-50.
- Remember not everyone likes dogs. Be considerate of other guests in the village.
Dog Walking at Center Parcs
The forest environment offers excellent walking opportunities. Consider these suggestions:
- Early morning walks are quietest
- Stick to designated walking trails
- Bring a torch in the winter or even just for evening walks the rest of the year
- Carry water during summer months, a doggy water bottle is a good idea.
- Use extendable leads in permitted areas.
- Dog parks are clearly marked on the Center Parcs map.
Alternative Activities When Dogs Can't Join
Since dogs aren't allowed in many central facilities, plan accordingly:
- As a family take turns doing activities (ie visiting the swimming pool) so doggy isn't left alone in a strange environment
- Use the takeaway services instead of restaurants. NB you can order takeaway from off site local takeaway and they will deliver to the security lodge at the entrance for your to pick up (so you can combine picking up the food with a walk).
- Go out the Village and try local amenities and attractions
Money-Saving Tips
Having a dog friendly lodge does increase your costs but there are a few tips to help save some pennies:
- Book dog-friendly accommodation early for best rates
- Sign up for our price tracking service to catch price drops.
- Consider midweek breaks which are often cheaper
- Pack all dog essentials to avoid village shop prices, Parc Market is decently stocked but expect a price premium.
Safety Rules to Remember
Keep in mind you are staying within a forest with wildlife and other holiday makers so follow these rules to keep safe:
- Keep dogs on leads in all public areas
- Clean up after your pet promptly
- Respect quiet hours
- Don't leave dogs alone in lodges for extended periods
What to Avoid
- Don't try to sneak dogs into restricted areas
- Don't try stay in a non-dog friendly lodge with a dog
- Avoid peak walking times in central areas
- Don't let dogs swim in lakes or pools
- Never leave dogs in hot lodges during summer
To be honest Center Parcs isn't the 'most' dog friendly option for families with a four legged friend but it is doable to have a fun family time with a dog. What tips or tricks would you add to the list?
