Bath is a wonderful city to explore with your four-legged companion. From the expansive Royal Victoria Park to the scenic canal paths, there are plenty of opportunities for walks and adventures. At Haringtons Hotel, we understand that pets are family members too, which is why we're proud to be a pet-friendly establishment in the heart of historic Bath. But what's the difference between traveling with a pet and traveling with a service dog? Let's explore the distinctions and share some helpful tips for both scenarios.

Traveling with Your Pet: Tips for a Smooth Experience

Before You Travel

Research pet policies carefully: Different accommodations have varying pet policies. At Haringtons Hotel, we welcome one small, well-behaved pet per room for an additional fee of £20 per night. This helps us cover the extra cleaning required to ensure our rooms remain pristine for all guests.

Pack the essentials: Remember to bring your pet's bed, favorite toys, regular food, treats, and any medications they might need. Familiar items help reduce travel anxiety.

Consider microchipping and ID tags: Ensure your pet has proper identification in case they become separated from you in an unfamiliar environment.

Visit the vet: Before traveling, make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and ask for a copy of their medical records to bring along.

During Your Stay in Bath

Respect local regulations: In Bath, dogs must be kept on leads in most public areas and parks, with the exception of designated dog exercise areas in parts of Royal Victoria Park.

Be mindful of other guests: Not everyone is comfortable around animals. Keep your pet under control at all times in public areas of the hotel and city.

Plan pet-friendly activities: Bath offers numerous pet-friendly experiences. The Bath Skyline Walk provides a beautiful 6-mile circuit around the city's periphery where dogs are welcome on leads. Henrietta Park and Sydney Gardens are also lovely spots for shorter walks.

Never leave your pet unattended: Our policy at Haringtons Hotel requires that pets are not left alone in rooms. This prevents stress-related behaviors and ensures your pet's comfort and safety.

Look for pet-friendly dining: Several cafés and restaurants in Bath have outdoor seating areas where well-behaved dogs are welcome. Our reception team can provide recommendations based on your dining preferences.

Traveling with Service Dogs: Understanding the Differences

Legal Distinctions

Service dogs are not considered pets under UK law. According to the Equality Act 2010, service dogs are highly trained assistance animals that help people with disabilities. These include guide dogs for the visually impaired, hearing dogs for the deaf, and assistance dogs trained to help with various physical and mental health conditions.

Service Dog Access Rights

Broader access: Service dogs are legally permitted in places where pets are typically not allowed, including restaurants, shops, and attractions that normally prohibit animals.

No additional charges: At Haringtons Hotel, while we charge a fee for pets, legitimate service dogs stay at no extra cost in accordance with equality legislation.

Documentation: While formal "certification" isn't required by UK law, it's helpful to have documentation from a doctor or relevant organization confirming your need for a service animal if asked.

Tips for Traveling with Service Dogs

Inform in advance: When booking your stay at Haringtons Hotel, please let us know you'll be accompanied by a service dog so we can make appropriate arrangements.

Bring service documentation: While we don't require documentation for clearly identifiable service dogs (those wearing recognized harnesses or vests), having something on hand can help prevent misunderstandings at various venues around Bath.

Pack service-specific essentials: Remember to bring your service dog's working gear, specialty equipment, and any specific items they need to perform their assistance duties.

Research accessibility: Bath is a historic city with cobblestone streets and steps in many areas. Plan your routes in advance to ensure they're accessible for both you and your service dog.

Rest breaks: Even the most professional service dogs need downtime. Royal Victoria Park provides excellent spaces for short breaks throughout the day.

Haringtons Hotel Pet Policy: What You Need to Know

We're delighted to welcome pets at Haringtons Hotel, with a few simple guidelines to ensure a pleasant stay for all our guests:

• We accept one small, well-behaved pet per room
• A pet fee of £20 per night applies (service dogs exempt)
• Pets must not be left unattended in rooms
• Pets are not permitted in our dining areas
• Any damage caused by pets will be charged accordingly
• We request that you inform us at the time of booking if you plan to bring a pet

Our serviced apartments can be particularly suitable for guests with pets, offering more space for both you and your furry friend to relax after exploring Bath.

Local Veterinary Services

We hope your stay goes smoothly, but should you need veterinary assistance while in Bath, the following services are available:

• Bath Vet Group - 24-hour emergency service (01225 832521)
• Bath Cats and Dogs Home Veterinary Clinic (01225 787321)

Our reception team can assist with contacting these services if needed.

Plan Your Pet-Friendly Bath Adventure

Whether you're traveling with a beloved pet or rely on a service dog, Bath offers a warm welcome and plenty of experiences to enjoy together. From scenic walks to pet-friendly attractions, you'll find Bath is an ideal destination for the whole family – including those with four legs.

Book your stay at Haringtons Hotel today and mention your furry companion in your reservation notes. We look forward to welcoming both you and your pet to our boutique hotel in the heart of historic Bath.

Want to know more about pet-friendly activities in Bath? Contact our team for personalized recommendations tailored to you and your four-legged friend!

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