Graham's Holiday Blog – A Greyhound’s Guide to Summer Fun

Hello friends! It’s me, Graham, your favourite dog blogger, back with another “dog with a blog” update. The sun is shining, the grass is warm, and Summer is officially here! We’ve got a paddling pool in the garden now; it reminded me of the one back at Linda Biscuit’s kennels. Grace has been visiting more often lately, and we've been splashing around together like a couple of pups. We’ve also been having epic zoomie races around the garden – I think I’ve still got it! 

My new favourite game to play in the garden is when Ava and Danny break out the water guns and Dad joins in with the garden hose. I love chasing the water and trying to bite the stream – it’s the best. Being outside is the greatest thing in the world (except maybe custard creams). Mum, of course, keeps reminding me that I’m a black dog and can overheat in the sun. She tries to keep me shaded or inside – says it’s for my own good. But I do enjoy a good sunbathe. Luckily, I’ve got my cool mat and a personal fan by the patio doors – not a bad setup if I say so myself!  

Now for the big news, I went on my very first holiday! Mum had been reading a blog from Greyhound Homing UK about the top 5 dog-friendly spots in Cornwall, and after a quick chat with Dad… boom! Holiday booked. 

A few weeks later, we were packed up and ready to hit the road for a 5-hour drive. Mum made sure the car was safe and comfy for me with my harness, seatbelt and dog guard. I had Ava and Danny in front of me, Mum in the passenger seat and Dad driving. Even better – Nanny and Grace were following behind us! 

The journey started off great – good music (even some of Linda Biscuit’s kennel favourites), and plenty of excitement. We stopped for a wee break at a service station. Grace and I had a sniff around, took care of business, and Mum came back with food – including chicken nuggets for Grace and I. Absolute legend, I knew I loved her loads for a reason. 

Before I knew it, we were pulling up to our Airbnb. Ava and Danny were squealing with excitement. Grace and I couldn’t wait to explore. Mum took us straight into the garden to settle in. I christened a lovely lavender plant by peeing up it. Dad just laughed and said, “Make yourself at home, Graham!” Don’t worry, Dad – I intend to. 

After a few minutes, we were finally allowed to explore the house. We jumped on the sofa and tested out the comfiness, but Nanny said we’re not allowed on the sofas here as they’re not ours! Luckily, Mum brought my bed from home, and it smelled just right. Grace was a bit unsettled at first, panting and pacing. I tried to cheer her up with kisses and nudges, but Mum said to give her space as she was unsure of what was going on. Nanny took her for a calming walk while I played outside with Ava and a tennis ball. 

To my surprise, the Airbnb hosts had left us a welcome pack with toys, gravy bones and a list of dog-friendly places for us to visit during our stay. Dad got straight on with planning by writing down activities for us to do while we were in Cornwall. That first night felt a bit strange – same bed, different place. But Grace and I snuggled in Mum and Dad’s room with our night light, and eventually we settled in just fine. 

A few days into the trip and I realised I am a beach boy at heart. We visited a quiet cove that was dog friendly. The sand reminded me of the track, I looked around thinking, “Hang on… where’s the hare?”. I must admit I was on the prowl. 

Ava and Danny ran into the sea giggling. I was unsure at first – my paddling pool never moves like this! Grace followed them in, but I was a little scared at first. My paddling pool doesn't usually move and crash with waves? Nanny held Grace’s lead as they paddled in the shallow part. I decided I didn’t think it was for me, until.... Danny got his water frisbee out. BINGO!! Something to chase! It was quite comical at first, as Mum wasn’t aware I’d suddenly got over my fear of the sea and chased the frisbee as I splish splashed in the waves with Mum the other end of the lead. Oops. Mum was in the sea with me, she said she didn’t want to go in the sea… but clearly, she changed her mind! After that we all had a fantastic time in the sea playing with one another. Beach days are the best!

We’d become quite accustomed to stopping off at the pub on the way home. I think it was purposely made for Grace and me because it’s called The Greyhound, how cool is that? When we walked in, the pub owners were so excited to see us and said we’re their honorary guests! She let us pick anything from the dog menu; Grace and I put our snouts to the menu and had a look. I will be honest...  I had no clue what it said! Mum chose dog-friendly ice cream for both of us! It was 10/10; I would recommend.  

The pub had some strange smells, and the floor was a little sticky! But with the weather being nice, we were able to sit in the beer garden so Ava and Danny could play on the swings. Grace and I liked to lay by the picnic bench and catch up on our snoozes. It is hard work all this holiday stuff. 

Our week in Cornwall was such a blast, and I can’t wait to go on holiday again. I enjoyed the beach the most but eating the same food out of my own bowl from home but in the Airbnb seemed so cool and mischievous. I kept stopping and jumping around because I was just so happy! I have decided I would like to become a full-time holiday dog; Mum did say something along the lines of all she needs is two holidays a year for six months at a time... I quite like the sound of that! Honestly, I’m all for it. Full-time holiday dog? Sign me up! 

Anyways, friends, we’ve just got back home and I am tired from my napping in the car. I need to catch up on some Zzzzzz’s. Speak soon, love and licks Graham x