A dog’s life? I don’t think so!
My sister, who has a huge, friendly Belgian Shepherd, always complains that the only reasonably-priced, dog-friendly accommodation she can find in Cornwall is always tatty.
But that needn’t be so in Brighton and Hove, where dog-owners, even of the very furry, prone-to-moulting variety (the dogs not owners), can choose from a range of, hopefully, clean and tidy options to suit their budget.
Sure, there is the upmarket and iconic Brighton Hilton Metropole (which has a surcharge of £30 per pet per night), and The Old Ship Hotel (£10 per pet per night charge). But if you are seeking modest and convenient (see tripadvisor), you won’t be disappointed. Airbnb, too, is a great place to look – just tick the pet-friendly option when searching to locate an apartment or a room by the beach (but remember to check with hosts that they welcome pets before finalising your booking).
A home from home
If you need to leave your dog behind while go elsewhere on holiday, there are various ways to make your break enjoyable for both you and your pet. Dog boarding is one possibility – where a canine-friendly household puts your dog up and treats them as an honoured guest – try Barker’s Dogs. Alternatively, if you are both more accustomed to conventional kennelling, The Saltdean Boarding Kennel (01273 301331) is just a short drive along the coast.
Buddies on the beach
I am sorry to say that dogs are not permitted year-round on the beaches in central Brighton - but for details of places in East Sussex where you can let your dog scamper along the line of the surf, try The Beach Guide.
Alternatively, the expansive and gorgeous countryside of the South Downs is just a short drive or train ride away. Take a stroll around the iconic Devil’s Dyke (number 77 bus from Churchill Square), or jump on a train to Lewes for a manageable and glorious walk to Glynde via Mount Caburn, with stunning views over ancient hills and valleys of rolling green.
If your pet gets into a bit of a mess during your country ramble, and you can’t face cleaning the mud-storm from your bathroom walls when they ‘shake’, get them along to The Dog’s Corner Holistic Dog Centre in Hove, where services range from the does-what-it-says-on-the-tin ‘Wash and Go’ option (from £5 to £15 depending on size of pet) to canine spa experiences, nail trimming, dog-walking and pet supplies.
Unlike our main beaches, pets are welcome in shops throughout the city. Walk through town on a busy Saturday and you risk tripping over the dog drinking-bowls left outside by a friendly shopkeeper. Some shops even have a jar of dog-biscuits on the counter to keep your companion happy while you browse. One such is Hoye’s Home and Garden in Hove, which also has a pet section for canine comestibles. Other pet retail emporia are A Coombs near The Level in Brighton, where you can peek at the cute pets for sale and find a wide range of supplies for all species.
A dog’s dinner – places to eat out together
A fairly comprehensive list of dog-friendly pubs, restaurants and cafes in Brighton and Hove composed by local blogger and dog-lover Floyd can be found here, but do get in touch with us to lead us to any other local recommendations.
Dog shows in East Sussex
This summer’s main canine-related event is more than just a show, as funds raised from the entry fee, food and drink sales and raffles held during Paws for the Cause (Hove Park, Sunday 19th August) will go towards helping rescue and rehome abandoned and homeless dogs within Spain and the UK. The day will also feature a fun dog show to enter on the day, where categories will include best dressed and best rescue dog.
Happy holidays to you and your hound!
Mary Kalmus
