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We are looking at going away this summer with our two dogs, but would like to know what the rules are regarding caravaining with your dogs. For example do dogs have to be on a lead all of the time when on your own pitch, or can you create a small but enclosed garden out of netting or windbreaks as seen at dog shows etc.

Thanks in advance

Virtually every campsite rules I have seen stipulate that dogs should be on a lead at all times. I suppose whether your solution for keeping them confined will depend on the size and strength of the dog. As Steve has said above many people tether their dogs on reasonable long leads so they can wonder around the pitch and see what is going on but not bother other people.

David

Many sites stipulate that dogs must be on a lead at all times which will include whilst being on your pitch. It only takes a second for an untethered dog to run at a passer-by even if they're surrounded by windbreaks.

Our Gabby (a GSD/Collie cross) is a very sociable dog and thinks that everyone is there to fuss over her and pat her!!
We always use a screw in dog anchor with a long lead when we take Gabby away with us. We place the anchor close to the unit so she has the option to be inside or out.
Depending on the weather, we sometimes use a windbreak but that is more to offer her extra shade than to fence her in!

Taking her on plenty of long walks during the day ensures she isn't too bouncy with excess energy on site and we ALWAYS clean up after her.

Basically, use your common sense as you know your dogs.

Quote: Originally posted by abi89 on 02/1/2012

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Thank you all for your help - is this the same rules for france and spain etc?

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Generally yes. Some Continental sites won't accept some breeds of dogs like those that are akin to Bull Terrier breeds Campsite websites will often give such information.

David

Dogs must be kept on a lead all the time when on site.  The most well behaved dog is not guaranteed not to react out of character.  We once had a milkman whose own Alsatian suddenly turned on him for no apparent reason, leaving him badly scarred around face and neck.

Consider site owners' responsibilities in law, apart from the distress should a dog attack a child, and I think that says it all really.

Bertie.

Our dog Sam, is really well behaved generally but even then will wonder off if not kept on a lead.  The only fair way is one rule for all I guess, so all dogs when outside, and not in the owners direct control should be on a lead.

Sam is the same Murano, he knows when we are getting ready to go and camps by the front door.  As soon as he gets a chance he bounces out, and places himself firmly in the back of the car.  A small explosive wouldn't be able to move him once he's there Lol.  We've only ever not taken him on three occassions in eight years, and he's determined it wont be four.

Might have to be this summer though as we're not sure about taking him to France with us.

Tony B

Hi Murano, we're also considering the options and weighing it up.  We were considering heading down to the warmer areas in France, but might stay North in order to open up the possibility of taking the dog. 

Our local Veterinary is holding an evening shortly on travelling abroad with Pets so I'm going to pop along to that.

Sammy is 12 now, so I'm torn between leaving him at home due to journey length and all of the other up heaval for him, or taking him.  Leaving him at home will really upset him though, so I might make the decision to take him but to stay North.

We went to the isle of white last Octobr with him, so a short ferry ride, and substantial journey in total.  He managed fine with this, so I think the chances are we are going to take him, but just keeping an open mind for now.

Tony.