Pet Friendly Donegal – Exploring the County with Lassie

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by Sarah Nolan, Senior Tourism Officer, Donegal County Council

I’ve always loved dogs. Growing up, there was always a dog somewhere around the house, and in 2018 we rescued Lassie from the Donegal County Council dog shelter. We brought her home not really knowing what to expect, but she settled in straight away and quickly became part of the family.

Lassie is a rough collie and has the gentlest nature. She grew up with our children and has been there through all the ordinary everyday moments that end up meaning the most walks, evenings in the garden, weekends at the beach and quiet nights at home. She has a lovely calm way about her and always seems to know when somebody needs company.

Anyone who owns a dog will understand how much they become part of family life. Lassie follows us everywhere, likes to know what everyone is doing and never misses the chance to head out for a walk. The second she hears the lead or the car keys, she’s ready to go.

One of the reasons Donegal suits her so well is the amount of space and freedom here. There are endless beaches, quiet roads, forest trails and open countryside, and every walk feels different depending on the weather and the season.

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Why Donegal is Great for Dogs

Donegal is one of the best places to explore with a dog because there’s so much variety. You can spend the morning on a beach, head into the hills in the afternoon and stop in a village café on the way home.

People are very relaxed about dogs here too. It’s common to meet other walkers out with their pets, and many cafés and outdoor spots are welcoming to dogs.

Bringing your dog to Donegal? Check out some great info below:

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flexible_blocks_5_wysiwyg_content_block => 'Favourite Beaches

Lassie loves the beach more than anywhere else. The minute she sees sand she takes off running, usually stopping every few minutes to look back and make sure we’re still following her.

Rossnowlagh Beach is perfect for long walks along the shoreline, while Murvagh Beach is quieter and feels really peaceful, especially in the evenings. Rathmullan Beach is another favourite  particularly on calmer days when the water is still and the beach is busy with families, walkers and dogs enjoying the fresh air.

Walks Beyond the Coast

Donegal isn’t just about beaches either. Glenveagh National Park is brilliant for walks with dogs on leads, especially around the forest trails and lakeside paths. Lough Salt and the roads around Sliabh Liag are also beautiful places to get out for fresh air and scenery.

These are the days Lassie enjoys most — coming home sandy, tired and completely content.'
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There are lots of pet-friendly places to stay across Donegal now, from self-catering cottages with enclosed gardens to guesthouses and holiday homes close to beaches and walking routes.

For anyone travelling with a dog, having somewhere welcoming to stay makes a huge difference. It means they can come along for the adventure instead of being left behind.

Seeing Donegal Through Lassie’s Eyes

Having a dog changes the way you experience a place. Walks become slower, you notice more and simple things like a quiet beach or a forest trail become the best part of the day.

For us, Lassie has become part of every Donegal memory — beach walks, road trips, muddy paws in the boot of the car and evenings spent drying her off after another adventure. She really is part of the family, and Donegal is the perfect place for dogs like her to enjoy life outdoors.

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