As we are a writers’ retreat and writers need a relaxing atmosphere, we welcome very well-behaved dogs and have a downstairs bedroom, where they can sleep in the room with the owner. However Labrador Daisy likes to play with friendly dogs – is yours capable of playing and being outside, left to his own devices? (Without digging!)
Having had a couple of bad experiences with scratched doors and whining unhappy doggies who don’t like being left on their own, we are happy to welcome your pet as long as:
1. Your pooch is very calm and does not mind being left alone, or left outside playing with my Labrador.
2. The communal areas are not for dogs but you will have access to a downstairs bedroom where your pooch can stay. It has a TV and day bed and armchair. If your dog always jumps on furniture, please confirm you will be able to bring relevant throws et cetera to cover up our furniture as usually dogs are not allowed on armchairs or beds.
3. Is happy and won’t be upset and will definitely not howl, scratch doors, chew, or leave little puddles.
4. Mealtimes are dog free for the benefit of the other guests, the communal lounge and dining room are dog-free zones. There is a little dog lobby area where your pet can relax with my Daisy if they don’t want to be shut inside the bedroom all day.
There are some lovely walks nearby, obviously keep your dog on the lead if there is any chance it will worry the farm animals in the fields, but the sheep-free meadow in Sheepwash, 10 mins walk away, is a good place for them to run around off leash, and have a paddle if they like going in the river. It is essential to pick up any of the mess your dog makes so please bring a good supply of poo bags – there are several poo bins around the village and of course we have one here.
Your doggie is your full responsibility at all times.
We have had a couple of very contented dogs fulfil all of the above, so hopefully yours will if you are intent on bringing him with you. However if you re-think, and consider it is worth the value of having a lovely pet-free break, our upstairs bedrooms are very comfortable, have wonderful mattresses, and a couple have a view across the Village Square, or the peace and quiet of a side room where you can concentrate on your work undisturbed and get lots done without the worry of your usual pet duties. Two of the upstairs bedrooms have en-suite facilities, if they are available – please ask. The downstairs bedroom is adjacent to the downstairs loo and bathroom.
Alternatively – Several people have arrived here and found that the need for doggy therapy has been fulfilled with a walk with Daisy, our resident Labrador, and of course a nice little play with her a couple of times a day can sometimes be all you need if you think you need to be around a dog yourself. Daisy would be very happy to oblige!
In that case, please consider some of the wonderful doggy homestay places that are around us, a short Google search will find some.
Assistance dogs – we have had several assistance dogs stay with us and they have been of exemplary behaviour and are usually no problem.
We know you will understand our need to be very particular regarding canine visitors. A £30 charge is added to your bill if you decide to bring your pet, and can confirm all of the above.
We want you to be confident, happy, content, and enjoy your writing retreat to the full. Plus Daisy lives here and needs to be considered too, as you will appreciate.
Hopefully you will be nodding your head at all of the above as you know you have a very well-behaved doggie.
Anything else, do let me know.
Debbie and the team x