“Garden” in a listing does not mean “fenced”: photos of the lawn may leave out the very section a dog could use to get out. Before booking, ask for photos or a video of the entire perimeter, including gates, and clear answers about the fence, entrances, pool, and products used in the garden. When you arrive, take the first walk around with your dog on a leash, before letting them off leash in the garden.
What to Ask About the Fence Before Booking
Send these questions to the property owner or manager and keep their answers.
- Is the fence continuous around the entire perimeter, or are there sections with hedges, low walls, or gaps? Just one open spot may be enough for a dog to get out.
- How high is it? Compare the measurement with your dog’s size and ability to jump or climb: there is no height that works for every dog.
- Are there gaps beneath gates or fences? A small dog, or one that tends to dig, may be able to get through.
- Does the gate close on its own, is it automatic, or is it shared with other units? If it opens for others or is left ajar, your dog could get out without you noticing.
- Who will come by during your stay (gardener, pool maintenance, owners, other guests), and how will you make sure the gates stay closed? A gate left open for convenience defeats the purpose of the fence.
- Are there other dogs or animals in the garden or nearby properties? They may affect your dog’s behavior near the fence, so it’s better to know in advance.
Ask for photos of corners and gates, not just the lawn: these are the places that show how the perimeter is enclosed.
Pool, Terraces, and Garden Products
Ask whether the pool is fenced or covered and whether it has steps or a place where your dog can get out of the water. Not all dogs are good swimmers, and a high edge can make it difficult to climb back out. Ponds and fountains should be checked in the same way.
Check the railings on terraces and balconies: for a small dog, the space between the bars could be an opening. Also consider drops and unprotected outdoor stairs.
Ask whether fertilizers, herbicides, or bait for rodents or snails have been used recently, and where these products and pool supplies are stored, as they can be dangerous if swallowed. If you suspect your dog has swallowed any of these products, call a veterinarian immediately.
Shade and Water During Hot Hours
Find out where shade is available throughout the day, and always keep fresh water available for your dog. Your dog should not be left outside during the hottest hours; also watch out for paving and slabs that heat up in the sun.
Identification: What to Take Care of Before You Leave
In an unfamiliar area, anyone who finds your dog should be able to get in touch with you:
- Check that your dog’s microchip is registered with your up-to-date contact details.
- Put a tag with your phone number on your dog’s collar.
- Keep recent photos of your dog and the contact details for the property and a local veterinarian.
If your dog wanders off, notify the property immediately and provide a photo and the microchip number. In your dog’s profile in PawsPet, you can keep up to six photos on your phone and, under “Personal Details,” the microchip number, which you can copy with one tap when needed; the profile does not replace registration with the local dog registry and does not locate your dog.
The First Walk Around After Arrival and the First Few Days
- Walk around the perimeter with your dog on a leash before letting them off leash.
- Check the gates, latches, and gaps: make sure the gates really close and look for openings along the fence.
- Remove tools, bags, and broken or dangerous objects from your dog’s reach.
- Agree with everyone staying there on who will close the gates.
- For the first few days, let your dog off leash only under supervision or on a long lead.
- If you find an issue that was not disclosed, write to the property and keep your dog on a leash until it is resolved.
Before confirming your booking, send your questions about the fence and ask for a video of the perimeter.
FAQ
Can you leave your dog alone in the garden when the family goes out?
It’s best to avoid doing so for the first few days, until you know the home and how your dog behaves in the garden. In any case, don’t do it without a verified fence, shade, and water available.
