As more Britons choose to take their pets on holiday rather than leave them behind, a new travel concept has launched to help owners navigate pet-friendly adventures. Pet food brand Carnilove has opened Britain’s first dedicated pet travel agency, Pet Set Go, in Chipping Norton, offering expert advice and inspiration for pet-friendly holidays across the UK and beyond.
The initiative comes amid growing demand for holidays that cater to both humans and their four-legged companions, with new research revealing that nearly half of UK dog owners are planning to travel with their pets this summer.
Pet-Friendly Holidays Are More Popular Than Ever
According to research commissioned by Carnilove, 46% of dog owners and 26% of cat owners intend to take their pets away with them this summer.
For many families, pets are no longer an afterthought when planning a trip. More than half of respondents (54%) said they simply enjoy their pet’s company, while 39% said travelling together creates memorable experiences and strengthens their bond.
The findings also show how integral pets have become to family life:
- 52% plan holidays around their pet’s needs
- 37% believe their pet’s needs are as important as their children’s when booking a getaway
- 54% feel both owner and pet benefit from a wellness boost when travelling together
This growing trend reflects a wider shift in the UK travel industry towards more inclusive, pet-friendly experiences.
New EU Pet Travel Rules Causing Concern
While demand for pet travel is increasing, recent changes to EU pet travel requirements have caused uncertainty for many owners.
Nearly a quarter (23%) of respondents said the new regulations may force them to rethink their holiday plans, while 39% cited administrative hassle and 52% highlighted costs as major concerns.
As a result, 26% of pet owners planning to travel have chosen to abandon European trips altogether in favour of UK-based alternatives.
Visitors to Pet Set Go can receive free guidance on navigating the latest pet travel regulations, including documentation requirements, costs and practical advice for travelling abroad with animals.
For official information on travelling with pets from the UK, owners can also visit the UK Government’s pet travel guidance via GOV.UK Pet Travel Information.
Helping Owners Find Pet-Friendly UK Destinations
The new agency aims to simplify the holiday planning process by recommending destinations tailored to pets’ personalities and needs.
Practical concerns remain a major factor when booking trips:
- 30% consider journey length a key factor
- 19% worry about restrictions on beaches and walking routes
- 19% are concerned about limited dining options that welcome pets
- 33% actively seek pet-friendly pubs and restaurants when choosing accommodation
To address these challenges, Pet Set Go provides both in-person and online advice, helping owners discover destinations where pets can enjoy outdoor adventures while remaining comfortable and welcome.
The agency’s recommendations include scenic locations across the UK, from the coastal landscapes of Anglesey to the rugged beauty of the Cairngorms.
Izzy Judd Supports the Campaign
Izzy Judd, who has partnered with Carnilove on the campaign, highlighted the importance of shared experiences with family pets.
She explained that pets play a central role in family life and that travelling together creates meaningful memories while helping everyone reconnect and recharge.
Judd also emphasised the importance of proper nutrition in helping pets maintain their energy levels throughout active holidays and outdoor adventures.
Matching Adventure With Nutrition
According to Colin Rodger, the launch of Pet Set Go reflects a growing recognition that active lifestyles are essential for pets’ wellbeing.
The agency combines travel guidance with information about Carnilove’s meat-first, grain-free and potato-free pet food recipes, designed to support vitality and natural strength for adventurous pets.
Meanwhile, pet travel expert Cara Whitehouse says pet owners are increasingly looking for holidays where their animals are not simply accommodated but are genuinely part of the experience.
How Much Are Owners Willing to Spend?
The survey also found that owners are willing to invest significantly in travelling with their pets.
On average, respondents said they would spend £823 to bring their pet along on holiday this summer, underlining the growing importance of pet-inclusive travel experiences.
Visit Pet Set Go
Pet owners can explore expert travel advice and destination guides through Carnilove’s official Pet Set Go hub: Pet Set Go Holiday Guide
