Missing your dog on holiday? You’re not alone

You’ve planned the trip, packed the bags, double-checked the passport, and finally arrived somewhere that looks like the photos. You’ve got the views, the peace, the freedom; everything you were hoping for.

Except there’s one small problem. Your dog isn’t there.

And that, as it turns out, is a pretty big problem for a lot of people. A Talker Research survey of more than 2,000 dog owners found that we’re a nation of hopelessly devoted pet parents; and when we go away without them, we don’t half miss them.

Here’s what they discovered:

• 40% of people constantly worry about their dogs while they’re away.
• 22% say they miss them so much it actually spoils the trip.
• On average, dog owners miss their pets 13 times a day, and it takes just 53 minutes after leaving home for the pangs to kick in.

And it gets worse. Some owners go full long-distance-relationship mode: 17% admit to trying video calls with their dogs. Whilst that is adorable, it’s also slightly tragic. Let’s be honest, the dog has absolutely no idea what’s happening. It’s just staring at a shiny rectangle, wondering if it dispenses biscuits.

Meanwhile, while their humans are getting misty-eyed about being apart, the experts reckon the dogs are mostly just cracking on with their day. They’re not pining by the door with a violin soundtrack; they’re living in the moment, probably thinking about snacks.

Comforting, in a way. Slightly rude, in another.

But it does explain why so many dog owners now look for holidays where they don’t have to leave their four-legged friends behind. Missing your dog isn’t just a bit sad, it genuinely takes the shine off what’s meant to be a relaxing break.

That’s exactly why Woodfarm exists. Our Barns, Cottages, and Barges are built around proper dog-friendly holidays; the kind where you bring them along instead of feeling guilty about leaving them. No anxious phone calls to the sitter, no FaceTime confusion, and no “I miss my pup” countdown.

Just long walks, lazy mornings, and evenings where everyone; humans and dogs alike, are exactly where they should be.

Because the only thing worse than missing your dog… is knowing she’s probably having a better time than you are.