Redcar and Cleveland are barking up the right tree with their mission to become the most dog-friendly district in the North-East.
With an increasing number of cafes, restaurants, and even a cinema rolling out the red carpet for our four-legged friends, it’s clear that dogs are more than just pets—they’re VIPs (Very Important Pooches).
To ensure every dog owner knows where they and their furry companions are welcome, special ‘dog-friendly’ stickers are being distributed across the borough. These stickers are like golden tickets for dog lovers, highlighting all the places where both humans and hounds can enjoy a day out together.
The Council has been on a mission to promote dog-friendly venues, including guest houses and hotels, for over a year now. Their dedicated website has been a hit, drawing a fantastic response from businesses eager to cater to dog-owning customers and from the public, who are thrilled with the expanding options.
The number of dog-friendly venues listed on the Council’s website has nearly doubled in just a year, growing from 53 to an impressive 103. This surge is a testament to the region’s commitment to making every outing a paw-sitive experience for dogs and their owners.
Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Carrie Richardson, who herself is the proud owner of three dogs, emphasised the growing demand for dog-friendly venues. During the pandemic, dog ownership surged by 20 per cent, making it more important than ever for public spaces to accommodate our canine companions.
Enjoying a coffee with her dog, Britney, at the beautiful Kirkleatham Walled Gardens, Cllr Richardson confirmed that the Council is fully committed to making the area even more welcoming to dogs and their humans.
“It’s gone dog crazy since we began pushing this,”
said Cllr Richardson. “We have hairdressers where you can bring your dog while getting your hair done. Even our cinema in Redcar, The Regent, is dog-friendly. I often pop into the café there with my dogs in tow. But there is a serious side to all this. We know that dog owners often consider dog-friendly amenities when planning a visit to the country or beach, or even a weekend getaway. We want to ensure they feel very welcome here.”
For those planning a dog-friendly adventure, a comprehensive list of designated areas for dogs can be found here. Businesses interested in joining the dog-friendly brigade can request a window sticker by emailing enjoy@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, Redcar and Cleveland are rolling out the welcome mat for dogs and their humans alike. The only thing left to do is grab the lead, pack some treats, and enjoy all that this dog-friendly haven has to offer!