10 Sustainable Destinations To Travel To With Your Dog
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Photo by Iliya Jokic
Sustainable travel is frequently associated with environmental measures such as carbon offsetting and rail use. On the other hand, sustainable travel may include visiting socially and environmentally responsible destinations.
When traveling with your dog, it’s important to consider the impact of your trip on the local community and environment.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when traveling with your dog to make sure your trip is sustainable:
Choose a destination that is dog-friendly and where you will be able to find pet-friendly accommodation.
Do your research on the local area before you travel so that you are aware of any potential hazards for your dog. This might include toxic algae or plants, dangerous wildlife, and areas where dogs are not allowed.
Bring enough food and water for your dog so you don’t rely on local resources. If your dog has certain health issues like an upset stomach or dog food allergies, bring along the necessary dog food because it might not be available at your destination.
Be mindful of your dog’s impact on the local environment, including noise pollution and litter.
Avoid taking your dog to areas where they could disturb protected wildlife or damage sensitive ecosystems.
Here are ten sustainable destinations to travel to with your dog:
1. Iceland
Iceland is a beautiful country with a strong commitment to environmental protection. Nearly 85% of its energy comes from renewable sources, making it a great destination for sustainable travelers.
What makes Iceland, especially dog-friendly is that nearly all of its attractions can be enjoyed with your furry friend by your side. From hiking through verdant landscapes to playing in the snow, plenty of activities keep you and your pup entertained.
2. Norway
Norway is another country with an impressive renewable energy portfolio, sourcing almost all of its electricity from hydroelectric power.
This Scandinavian country is also a great place to travel with your dog, with plenty of open spaces and hiking trails to explore together. And in the winter, you can even enjoy some of Norway’s world-famous ski resorts with your four-legged friend.
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise and one of the world's most sustainable countries. Over 25% of its territory is protected for conservation purposes and aims to be carbon neutral by 2021.
Enjoy plenty of activities with your dog in Costa Rica, from hikes through lush rainforests to playing on the beach. You can even go zip-lining or surfing with your pup in tow.
4. Australia
Australia is a vast and diverse country, and there are many sustainable travel options to choose from. One of Australia's most popular sustainable destinations is Byron Bay, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and lush rainforests.
There are also plenty of dog-friendly activities in Byron Bay, from walks along the beach to hikes in the hinterland. And when you’re ready to relax, you can even take your pup to one of the town’s many cafes or restaurants.
5. New Zealand
New Zealand is another country with an abundance of natural beauty, and it’s also one of the most environmentally-friendly countries in the world. Almost half of the country is protected for conservation purposes, and it aims to be completely carbon-neutral by 2050.
When traveling with your dog in New Zealand, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors together. From hikes through verdant forests to playing on sandy beaches, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy.
6. Portugal
Portugal is a beautiful country with a strong commitment to sustainability. It sources over 70% of its electricity from renewable sources, and it aims to become carbon-neutral by 2050.
This European country is also very dog-friendly, with many restaurants and cafes allowing dogs inside. And there are plenty of activities to enjoy with your pup, from walks along the beach to hikes in the mountains.
7. Scotland
Scotland is an excellent destination for sustainable travelers, with over 80% of its electricity coming from renewable sources. It’s also a great place to travel with your dog, with many attractions and activities that are perfect for both you and your furry friend.
From walks through stunning landscapes to playing on the beach, there’s no shortage of things to do with your pup in Scotland. And in the winter, you can even enjoy some of the country’s world-famous ski resorts together.
8. Finland
Finland is another Nordic country with a strong commitment to sustainability. It sources almost all of its electricity from renewable sources, and it aims to become carbon-neutral by 2035.
This Scandinavian country is also very dog-friendly, with many restaurants and cafes allowing dogs inside. And there are plenty of activities to enjoy with your pup, from walks through the Finnish countryside to playing in the snow.
9. Switzerland
Switzerland is another European country that’s perfect for sustainable travelers. It sources over 60% of its electricity from renewable sources, and it aims to become carbon-neutral by 2050.
This Alpine country is also very dog-friendly, with many attractions and activities that are perfect for both you and your furry friend. From walks through stunning landscapes to playing in the snow, there’s no shortage of things to do with your pup in Switzerland.
10. Norway
Norway is the final Nordic country on our list, and it’s also one of the most sustainable countries in the world. It sources almost all of its electricity from renewable sources, and it aims to become carbon-neutral by 2030.
This Scandinavian country is also dog-friendly, with many restaurants and cafes allowing dogs inside. And there are plenty of activities to enjoy with your pup, from walks through the Norwegian countryside to playing in the snow.
There you have it, ten of the most sustainable countries in the world that are also perfect for traveling with your dog. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!
Sea Going Green is a sustainable tourism consultancy working with clients in the tourism industry to create memorable and sustainable experiences for guests.