A study of 2,000 cat and dog owners found 26% are avoiding overseas travel so they can take their pet with them, as a pop-up “Pet Set Go” travel agency opens in Oxfordshire.Lucy Brimble12:31, 03 Jun 2026Pop-up travel agent - Pet Set GoHalf of pet owners plan their entire holiday around their furry friends, a study has revealed. A poll of 2,000 cat and dog owners found 26% are ditching trips abroad in favour of staying in the UK and bringing their pet along.‌More than half (54%) said they holiday with their pets because they enjoy their company, while 39% said they feel happier knowing they have given their animal a new experience. When searching for somewhere to stay, 33% said they look for pet-friendly pubs and restaurants nearby, while 30% factor in how long the journey is going to be.‌‌In response to the findings, pet food maker Carnilove has opened a pop-up travel agent called ‘Pet Set Go’, offering tips and advice on travelling with animals. It comes after a third of owners said they have previously had to change or cancel a holiday due to a lack of pet-friendly options.Owners can visit the travel agency at 21 West Street, Chipping Norton until June 4th at 5pm, or explore the five travel guides and expert advice online .Cara Whitehouse, pet travel expert, said: "We’re seeing a massive shift in the UK when it comes to furry friend-friendly holidays. Pet parents no longer want a holiday where their pet is just 'tolerated' - they’re now at the heart of the adventure.‌“By uncovering these incredible 'hidden gem' locations, from the sweeping dunes of Anglesey to the rugged, raw plateaus of the Cairngorms, we’re helping owners match destinations to their pet’s unique character.“As international travel with pets gets tougher, we’re glad to help match more fuss-free destinations to a pet's requirements to support their natural spirit."The study found the biggest challenges of holidaying with pets include a limited choice of places to eat or drink, and restrictions on beaches, walks or attractions.‌Nearly four in 10 (38%) said they would be more likely to book a pet-inclusive holiday if there were no additional animal fees. Trusted reviews from other owners (34%) and access to pet-friendly activities (26%) were also cited as important factors.Among those planning a UK holiday with their pet this summer, the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Cornwall were rated among the top destinations.‌Colin Rodger, managing director at Carnilove, said: “We launched the ‘Pet Set Go’ agency because an active, adventurous life isn’t just a luxury for our pets: it’s a necessity to ignite their true spirit.“Our research shows that owners are willing to go the extra mile to ensure their four-legged friends are part of the pack, but every great expedition requires the right fuel.“By pairing our meat-first, potato and grain-free recipes with expert travel advice, we’re helping pet parents support the vitality and natural strength needed for a lifetime of shared memories on the trail.”‌The OnePoll.com study also found 54% said holidaying with their pet gives them both a much-needed wellness boost. A third said they noticed their animal’s mood improved for weeks after returning home, with 30% saying their pet shows more “vitality” or “spirit”.Izzy Judd, a brand partner, said: "Our home is always a bit of a whirlwind with three children, but our pets are such a huge part of our family’s heartbeat.“We’ve always found that the best way to hit 'reset' is to take a trip together, so I’m happy to be part of ‘Pet Set Go’ because I know first-hand the 'wellness boost' you get from a shared adventure.Article continues below“It isn't always easy to plan, but fuelling our pets with the right nutrition and being able to take them on our family holidays makes all the difference in creating those special core memories together."