Kingfisher and Otter Lodges - Dog friendly self-catering log cabins
Dogs are very welcome at Kingfisher and Otter Lodges at no extra charge. If you are looking for accommodation where dogs are not allowed may we suggest that you look at Windermere Lodge.
Please note that dogs must NOT be left alone in the lodge. This is a park rule as well as one of our own and you may be required to leave if you do not comply.
We do ask that dogs are not allowed in the bedrooms or on the sofas or any other soft furniture.
Please bring with you sufficient towels and rugs to dry and clean your pet and to protect carpets etc. Any damage, stains etc must be paid for in full. In case you are not sure, our tea towels are for drying the washing up, not for cleaning your dog :-)
Please never leave your dog alone in the lodge without you.
The decking and balcony outside the lodge has a secure (bolted) gate and a dog tie up cable is provided.
All dogs staying on the park must be kept on a lead at all times except when in the fantastic dog field near the play park (another park rule). This large field (pictured above) has a bench where you can sit and take in the dramatic scenery whilst you watch your dog snuffling around the array of interesting smells, and maybe taking a splash in the water that runs along it.
Please be considerate to other guests and owners by making sure that you clean up after your dog, and please ensure that your dog has been properly treated for fleas/worms before you arrive!
The Lake District is a fantastic place to bring a dog and there are a variety of local walks that can be done right from the lodge door. Details of these can be found on our sister site - Windermere Lodge
Doggy Tourism
At the time of writing:
- Both of the local pubs, The Mortal Man and The Queen's Head, allow dogs. The Queen's Head are normally thoughtful enough to provide a bowl of water outside so you don't feel too bad about satisying your own thirst at the bar :-)
- The steamers on the Windermere, Coniston and Ullswater allow dogs.
- Shepherds of Windermere and some other boat hire companies let you take dogs on board.
- The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway both allow dogs.
- Muncaster Castle allows dogs in the grounds but not in the house.
- It's a great shame (as it would make a lovely walk) but Holehird Gardens does NOT allow dogs in the grounds.
Doggy Retail
Booths Supermarket in Windermere stocks dog food and a variety of canine accessories.
There is a pet shop on the main street in Windermere
There is also a massive new Pets at Home in the South Lakeland Retail Park in Kendal
Doggy Emergencies
Accidents will happen and it's good to know that there is a vet close by (just under 4 miles - 10 minutes drive) at the Oakhill Veterinary Centre on Lake Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 2EQ Telephone: 01539 488555 Fax: 01539 442859. Whilst we have to be careful recommending services like this, and you must make your own choices here, we can say that we do have a very positive experience of their care, and we know others who would agree.
Looking after your dog on the fells
(Advice From The Lake District National Park Authority Site)
Heat stroke
If your dog is panting excessively and is having difficulty breathing:
- Keep the dog calm, move it into the shade, a cool room or building or near a fan or breeze
- Cool all of your dog with water, paying particular attention to the head
- Let your dog drink small amounts of cool water frequently. Call a vet.
Ticks
Ticks are potentially harmful parasites which can spread harmful diseases. Check for ticks every day; they look like a dark, smooth pea. They must not be squeezed or pulled off - ask your vet how to remove them safely.
Insect stings
If a sting is left in your dog, scrape it away with a fingernail or credit card. Do not squeeze or grasp the sting. Cool the area with a wet cloth to help reduce pain or swelling. If in doubt, contact your vet.
Adder bites
Keep your dog still and calm. If possible, don't allow it to walk; carry it instead. Leave the bite wound alone and contact a vet immediately.
Crossing Fields with dogsPlease take a look at this advice - it could save yours, and your dog's, life one day! Walking World - Advice for Crossing Fields With Dogs
Doggy Apologies
We are unable to take bookings for the following breeds of dog: American Pit Bull, Japanese Tosa, Dogue Argentina, Fila Brasileiro or any other dog deemed dangerous by the Dangerous Dogs Act. Well actually we aren't really apologising as we can't really see why anyone in their right mind would want to bring any of these to a family holiday park anyway :-)
Now you do realise that if your dog could type he'd have booked by now don't you? Come on it's over here for Kingfisher and here for Otter

