Lauren & Milo

Meet the Owner

Every month we talk to one of our favourite dog owners about their four-legged friend/s and their top dog friendly recommendations – places to stay, places to eat and places to go. Last month, we spoke to Rachel from the Dog Friendly Destinations team, but today it’s Lauren’s turn. Lauren looks after all things Sales & Marketing for Dog Friendly Destinations, including our social media channels. If you follow us on Instagram, you can probably tell that she has a bit of an obsession with gorgeous sunsets, great food and getting out and about with Milo and her little boy, Emlyn.

Where and when did you first meet your fur baby?

Milo is a rescue dog; he was found under a caravan. He was taken to the local vets and looked after by a nurse with the same name as me (Lauren Evans at the time). When I found this out, I knew it was a sign. I heard they were looking for someone to adopt Milo and so, asked my other half who said no! It was Christmas time and all I could think about was the little 8 month old puppy all alone (he wasn’t, he was loving life with the vet and her two other dogs, to be fair). Eventually Rob agreed to meet Milo for a walk and as soon as he ran at us sideways and pee’d on our feet, we knew he’d found his forever home. He is the most obedient and loving dog who loves a fuss off any passing human, especially my husband who loves him more than I ever could have imagined. Seven years on, he goes everywhere with us; he even came to the church on our wedding day.

What is Milo’s favourite thing to do?

He loves to play catch. We’re convinced he was a pro cricket player in a previous life.

What is his favourite dog/puppy product to play with?

His training treat ball or a good old tennis ball.

What difference does having a dog make to your life?

We love meeting lots of other lovely dog owners on our daily walks; we genuinely think dog owners are the nicest people. We have been on so many amazing adventures and seen more of UK since having Milo – part of the reason that we started Dog Friendly Destinations. After a day at work, there is nothing better than a waggy tail greeting you at the door and we love having a reason to start our day with a little bit of exercise and fresh air.

Do you like to travel with your dog?

We love travelling with Milo. If he can’t come with us, we generally don’t go.

City, coast or countryside. Any preference?

I do love the beach and the smell of the sea air but for me, my perfect break is a peaceful countryside escape in a gorgeous barn where we can walk for miles from the doorstep and return to a cosy log fire and a glass of red wine.

Favourite dog friendly place to stay: 

The Chicken Shed. It’s a stylish barn conversion in South Wales with beautiful views across the Monmouthshire countryside – the sunsets are incredible. It’s the perfect place for a family holiday and the enclosed garden is great for dogs.

Favourite dog friendly place to eat:

The Glas Fryn on the outskirts of Mold in North Wales. It’s not our closest pub but well worth the extra walk to enjoy the large beer garden with views of Moel Famau in the summer. In winter, sitting outside is still an option with patio heaters at most tables and cosy blankets on offer. The bar area has a gorgeous open fire. The rug in front of it is a popular spot for pups to rest their paws and wait for a fuss off the dog-loving staff who always offer biscuits and water.

Favourite dog friendly place to go: 

Penrhyn Castle. The grounds are great for exploring with four-legged friends. There are lots of picnic spots by the castle itself, but head to the walled gardens and sit on the terrace. It’s so beautiful, especially when the roses are in bloom.

What makes the perfect dog friendly destination for you?

Somewhere that’s not just advertised as dog friendly, but where dogs are made to feel properly welcome. If it’s a stay, I really appreciate safe, enclosed spaces and a welcome pack with dog friendly destinations nearby. If it’s a place to eat, we love friendly staff that welcome you and your pooch and can recommend a place to sit where you don’t feel in the way and where your dog will feel safe.

If your dog had a theme tune, what would it be?

Fontella Bass – Rescue Me

Finally, where else can we find you online?

I’m @dogfriendlydestlauren on Instagram, but mostly on the @dogfriendlydestinations account. Come and say hi!