My Love Affair with Travelling the UK with Dogs, by Paula Heenan

Mini-breaks with my mum and her fluffy Bichon Frise, Babe, were the start of my love of travelling with dogs. We explored Arran, St Andrews and Fife, and Yorkshire — small adventures that set the tone for a life spent with a suitcase, a map, and a wagging tail.

When Truffles came into my life, those short trips soon became full-blown expeditions. I wanted to see as much of the UK as possible with him by my side — and that dream carried us all the way to the breathtaking Hebridean Islands.

Travelling with dogs takes planning and patience: ferry bookings, pet lounges, accommodation with fridges for dog food, and a healthy sense of humour.

The Isle of Harris: Sand, Sea and Scallops

Our first big adventure took us north to the Isle of Harris, with a stop in the pretty village of Beauly and a seafood lunch in Ullapool. There, a woman asked if she could give Truffles a scallop. My inner voice instantly shouted, “I’ll have it!” — but I let Truffles have it!

The ferry crossing that followed was less elegant — wild seas, a very green human, and a dog who looked ready to take the helm. Yet the moment we reached Eoropie Beach the next morning, everything was forgiven. Watching Truffles sprint across that vast stretch of white sand made every mile worthwhile.

Babe’s Final Holiday: Beaches and Sausages

A few years later we returned, this time with Mum and Babe in tow. Babe adored the beach, running off into the dunes and vanishing… until a cheerful voice called out, “Is this your dog? She’s at our BBQ!” There she was, being hand-fed sausages by delighted strangers. It was the perfect farewell — beaches, sunshine, and cheeky adventures. Babe crossed the rainbow bridge just three days after we returned home.

New Paws, New Adventures

The next year brought Santino (or “Tini”), a sweet but anxious traveler. After chatting with our vet, we found medication that helped him relax — and it transformed his experience. North Uist was a dream: dog-friendly cafés, wild beaches, peaceful forests, and two very happy little companions.

Top Tips from a Dog-Travel Addict

• Keep a cool box in the car for dog food (and human snacks)
• I always take some Simple Stuff cleaning spray too in case of accidents! Plenty paper towels, tissues and rubbish bags for the car too!
• The dogs have isofix car seats in for comfort and safety
• Pack more food, towels and blankets than you think you’ll need
• In Scotland, always expect four seasons in one day — wellies and sunglasses are both essential!

Next up? My kitchen renovation in January means only one thing: a winter escape with Truffles and Santino. Whether it’s a cosy Highland cottage, a seaside town, or a city full of dog-friendly pubs, one truth remains — wherever we go, the dogs lead the way.