Dog-friendly destinations urged to join new VHEY tourism campaign
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
It is now easier than ever for dog-owners to discover pooch-friendly destinations across Hull and East Yorkshire, as a new initiative launched by Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY) aims to capitalise on the growing trend of holidaying with pets.
According to recent findings provided by JustHooit.com, 23 million UK households – over 40 per cent of the population – are pet owners, with dogs the most favoured companions.
A total of 83 per cent of respondents admitted feeling guilt at the prospect of leaving their canine companions behind while embarking on holiday adventures. Some 67 per cent confessed to strategically planning their breaks around their furry friends, emphasising the integral role pets play in shaping travel plans.
This new campaign designed to highlight dog-friendly establishments across the region will assist local businesses promote themselves through online listings on the visithull.com and visiteastyorkshire.com websites, VHEY’s social media platforms, and receiving free material to help businesses promote themselves to visitors.
Shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants and accommodation providers are all being invited to sign up, free of charge, and take part in the campaign.
Chris Blacksell, chair of VHEY, said: “Hull and East Yorkshire is the perfect destination for pet-friendly holidaying, be it for a day trip or a short break. The mix of the East Yorkshire coast, Yorkshire Wolds, historic market towns and the city of Hull provides dog lovers with a superb choice of locations to visit and explore.
“We have many dog-friendly businesses across the region who are only too happy to extend a paw of hospitality to four-legged companions. This campaign will aim to promote the establishments to new audiences and grow our national reputation as a dog-friendly destination.”
To express interest in participating in the campaign, businesses can register by emailing info@vhey.co.uk.