This September marks five years of our Dogs Welcome Project, created with the support of Devon-based natural pet food company Forthglade. ‘Five years ago, we asked dog-owning members how we could make their visits better, and they asked for more access, more information about where they could go with their dog, and more things that felt especially for them,’ says Dogs Welcome Programme Manager Ceinwen Paynton. ‘We’re thrilled to share that, with Forthglade’s help, 87 per cent of the places we care for can now welcome canine visitors – including almost all Trust gardens in South West England and many more across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. More places also have special facilities for dogs, including agility courses and “sniffari” trails.’

With Forthglade, we’ve developed a ‘pawprint rating’ system, which you’ll find on our website or in your National Trust Handbook. This easy guide gives you an idea of how dog-friendly a Trust place is – or how you can find a dog-free place, if that’s what you prefer.

To ensure everyone can enjoy their day, whether or not they’re visiting with a dog, we’ve created a Canine Code, which we respectfully ask owners to stick to in order to preserve the landscapes we care for.

September also signals the return of our popular ‘Pooch Passport’ scheme, which more than 100,000 visitors and their dogs have enjoyed over the last three years. You collect stamps each time you and your dog visit one of 137 participating Trust places. Collect five stamps, and your dog will receive a free packet of natural Forthglade dog treats. Reach 10, and claim a Pooch Passport pin badge.

‘For many dog-owners, their pets are a part of the family and they want to be able to enjoy National Trust places together,’ says Ceinwen. ‘We’re so pleased that, with Forthglade’s support, we have been able to make a day out with your dog easier and more fun.’