From Rescue to Road Trip: How Pepper Inspired Wag Friendly

Welcome to Wag Friendly run by David and Christine! We are two passionate animal lovers and avid travelers. Growing up, my family home was full of animals—at one point, my mom cared for over 20 cats, along with our dogs and chickens!

Fast forward to today, after years of exploring Europe, I found myself longing for the companionship of a furry friend. That longing sparked not just a new adventure, but also a community-driven platform for dog owners like you.

A New Beginning: Enter Pepper

Pepper came to us through a local animal shelter when we decided to give fostering a try. She was our second foster dog and had been through so much—rescued by the police, she was malnourished but full of love.

Her wagging tail and endless kisses quickly won us over, and before we knew it, we became what the fostering world affectionately calls “foster fails.” 

Dog-Friendly Campervan Adventures Across Europe

David and I have always loved the freedom of travel, and our campervan is the perfect way to do this. Exploring Europe at a slower pace allows us to soak in local culture, discover hidden gems, and connect with fellow travelers. In 2023, we wanted to take Pepper along with us.

We went to Poland, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic for this first trip together. It was so much fun to watch her explore new places. But while Pepper loved the journey, we quickly encountered an unexpected challenge: finding places that welcomed her.

Overcoming Challenges: Finding Dog-Friendly Spots While Traveling

If you’ve ever hit the road with your dog, you’ll know how tricky it can be. Many restaurants, cafes, and pubs didn’t allow dogs indoors—or only permitted them on outdoor terraces. Campsites were another hurdle, as many weren’t dog-friendly.

Leaving Pepper behind wasn’t an option as she was still a puppy, so we had to make sacrifices. Skipping meals out, improvising rest stops, and endless Googling left us thinking there must be an easier way.

Wag Friendly: A Solution Born on the Road

During that trip, the idea for Wag Friendly began to take shape. As I pieced together dog-friendly locations from countless websites, David had a lightbulb moment.

What if we created a single platform where dog owners could find dog-friendly cafes, restaurants, hotels, parks, and more—quickly and effortlessly? And just like that, Wag Friendly was born.

What is Wag Friendly? Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Locations

Wag Friendly is your go-to resource for living your best life with your dog. Whether you’re planning a campervan road trip across Europe or just looking for a cozy local cafe, we make it simple to find dog-friendly destinations.

Here’s What You’ll Find on Wag Friendly:

Simplify Dog-Friendly Travel with Wag Friendly

Our travels with Pepper highlighted a common struggle: how do you travel with a dog and still enjoy all the experiences you love? With Wag Friendly, we’re here to make those adventures easier. Whether it’s finding a dog-friendly restaurant, a campsite that welcomes pets, or an off-lead area for a good game of fetch, we’ve got you covered.

FAQs: Your Dog-Friendly Travel Questions Answered

Q: How do I find dog-friendly restaurants or cafes?
A: Wag Friendly’s searchable database makes it easy to find dog-friendly spots. Simply enter your location, and we’ll show you the best options nearby.

Q: What should I pack when traveling with my dog?
A: Essentials include a leash, portable water bowl, your dog’s favorite toys, and a bed or blanket for comfort. And don’t forget their travel documents if you’re crossing borders!

Q: Can I leave reviews on Wag Friendly?
A: Absolutely! Your insights help other dog owners make informed decisions and discover amazing places.