Prepare for unexpected vet bills
The Netherlands, the magical country of freedom, open-mindedness, gorgeous architecture, and tall, blonde people is calling. The traveler inside you wishes to venture onto a European adventure that absolutely must include this amazing country. And what better way to experience the vast plains of The Netherlands than with your faithful companion, your lovely dog. The two of you can ride bicycles (okay, your dog will probably walk beside you, but never mind), visit museums, explore the forests, and roam around the cities, strengthening your love in the process!
When in Rome, do as Romans do, right? Well, the same thing can be said about the Netherlands. Everyone and their grandma uses a bicycle to get around town, so why should you be any different? It is virtually impossible to get run over by a car in this country, as cyclists are protected like endangered species. They have their own lanes, physically separated from the road, and in some cities, cars can’t even enter the city center! Perfect for you and your doggo to go on a relaxing bike ride all while sightseeing and soaking up the culture of the Netherlands.
What’s the first thing you think of when someone says Netherlands? Canals of course! Amsterdam, Utrecht, and many other cities in the Netherlands are filled with gorgeous canals that intersect and flow through the city. Instead of taking a walk beside the canal, why not rent a boat and have a little cruise? There are numerous services that offer boat rides through the city canals, perfect for a nice, relaxing afternoon and casual sightseeing. You will pass by the most important landmarks of the city, and the tour guide will tell you a story about each one, and while you’re getting educated, your doggo can have the time of their life looking down at the water, checking out landlubbers and their dogs, and chilling with other people and dogs on the boat.
If you are a fan of the alternative, and you’d like to scratch the surface and see what hides underneath, you might greatly enjoy Bikewars in Utrecht. Bikewars is a squatting venue, an old parking lot abandoned years ago, that the local artists, chefs, musicians, and travelers have claimed and made a wonderful community there. Each Wednesday they serve free vegan food, there are art exhibitions and live music shows, and you can really be a hippie you always wanted to be here. Of course, the whole venue is dog-friendly, and there are a lot of pooches hanging around, being cute and cuddly. Your doggo can make friends, and you can enjoy the company of free-spirited people. And who knows, maybe you’ll leave the conventional life behind and become a true hippie as well!Â
Visit the King’s Day festival with your pup and have a proper day of festivity! Put on something orange, get an orange coat or a hat for your doggo and celebrate the Dutch King!
Whether you are visiting Amsterdam, Utrecht, Amersfoort, Den Haag, or any other city in the Netherlands, ask around for a free walking tour you can attend with your beloved pup. Just make sure you bring a leash and some treats to keep your pup calm and on their best behavior.
Visiting a wonderful country such as The Netherlands is super fun on its own, it is even better and more meaningful when you actually take your dog with you. The two of you can have the time of your lives exploring another culture, meeting amazing Dutch people, and visiting many sights this country has to offer!