Co-existence
Are you one of those humans who is lucky enough to share your life with one or more dogs? If you are, this is going to interest you!
We know that you love to take your canine companion everywhere you go. In Ferrolterra, you’re in luck! Here, more and more pet friendly establishments have been cropping up. But to keep this trend growing, it’s important that we comply with some basic rules and leave positive footprints everyplace we visit.
Would you like to follow our suggestions?
Here are a few guidelines!
- No doubt your dog knows his name by heart because you call him 100 times a day, but… don’t forget to carry his papers with you in case of any eventuality! (For example, a minor accident that requires a visit to a vet: having his pet passport with you will speed up medical attention).
- Don’t go out without hygienic bags and a small bottle of water to dilute urine on sidewalks, façades, urban furniture, etc. Let’s keep our image and the environment clean!
- Yes, we know that your dog is not going to contaminate a fountain by drinking from it. But many people who use fountains may find it annoying. So, let’s be respectful! You can improvise a drinking bowl by pouring the water into a plastic bag!
- Do you want to enter a business establishment and you’re not sure if your dog can go in with you? If you don’t see a sign on the door, just ask! According to the law, the decision to allow dogs on the premises is at the discretion of the owner of the business, so it’s always best to ask before entering. There may even be places that have never even considered the possibility. But if you ask politely and they see how well-behaved your companion is, they will welcome you with open arms!
- Let’s make a good impression! If we respect the rules of the establishments, show good manners, keep our dogs clean and try not to bother other clients, we will be setting an example and encouraging other businesses to become pet friendly!
- When making a reservation at a restaurant, let them know that you’ll be bringing along your dog(s), so they can assign you a table in a quiet area!
- At hotels, bed and breakfast accommodations, etc., don’t let your dog leave your side, both to avoid stressful situations and to convey a sense of calm to your hosts and the other guests. If you need to leave your dog alone in the room for whatever reason, be sure to ask if the owner if this is possible since it is usually not permitted.
- If you have plans and your dog won’t be able to accompany you, look for a kennel or a doggy daycare! That way, he won’t be left alone and everyone will be calmer and happier!
- Always try to be mindful: our four-legged companions are notoriously curious and can unintentionally knock something over or cause damage. So, use a short leash or shorten the one you have to be on the safe side!
- In places that serve food and drinks, make sure the dog stays under the table or right next to you, so as not to bother the servers and other customers. And if you have forgotten his drinking bowl, you can ask the server if they have any type of container you could use!
- Remember that on public roads your dog must always be leashed and wear a collar or other restraining element. On rural paths and roads, dogs are allowed to enjoy their freedom, but be careful not to cause any damage, discomfort or risks to other people, animals, or objects.
- Ferrolterra boast a wide range of natural heritage places, with special protection spaces and species. So, we appreciate your lending a hand to help preserve them, by always respecting the indications. In some places, like As Fragas do Eume Natural Park, your dog must be on a short, non-extendable leash and may be taken along the designated trails. If you want to explore the magnificent beaches of Valdoviño, for example, your dog will not be able to accompany you, since the area is home to the habitats of protected species. But we have other beaches where dogs are allowed outside normal hours of use in addition to designated dog-friendly beaches that can be enjoyed all year round.
- In Galicia people who are accompanied by their service dogs are allowed to bring them everywhere – they may access all types of establishments and public transport, regardless of whether they are privately or publicly owned. Always have your pet’s documentation with you in case you are asked to show it.
- Sound like too many rules? Remember that it’s the job of all of us who live with dogs to pave the way towards harmonious coexistence, based on the role model of other countries. To achieve this goal, we must set an example: every time we enter an establishment with our dog, we represent all multi-species families and the way we behave will determine whether others are welcomed or not in the future.
It’s also important for you to bear in mind the needs of your companion: if you are going to travel with him to Ferrolterra, remember there are festivals and pilgrimages going on all year long. Do your homework and find out beforehand, especially if your dog is afraid of fireworks to avoid causing him unnecessary stress.