A recent poll has revealed that over half of Scottish dog owners say that the one constant which has helped them through the tough times has been their furry friends.
To help them say thank you, a top hotel chain has launched a new mouth-watering new dog menu across their pet-friendly hotels in the UK.
The new Hilton Bone Appétit menu has been developed together with veterinary nutrition experts and will be available across 32 of its hotels from May 17, including Scottish properties the Waldorf Astoria in Edinburgh, The Caledonian, Hilton in Glasgow Grosvenor, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh Airport.
The menu, which has been approved by DogFriendly, who provide dog lovers with information on exploring dog-friendly hotels and restaurants throughout the UK, features four ‘pup-tastic’ meal options.
These include the Beef Doguignon, slow cooked beef brisket served with mashed potato, carrots, green beans, sweetcorn, broad beans and gluten-free gravy; and Mutt Roast, gluten-free tomato pasta, topped with mature cheddar cheese and roasted in the oven.
As well as the Earl Greyhound, a calming blend of lavender, rose petals, lime flower and orange flowers. Perfect for anxious pooches recovering from long car journeys or staying away from home; and Tailwagger Creek, a non-alcoholic wine infused with elderflower, nettle, ginseng, lime flower and black carrot.
The news comes as research conducted by the hotel chain found that the vast majority of Scottish pet owners feel the pandemic would have been much harder for them without their canine companions, who boosted moods (89%) and provided companionship during tough times (87%).
More than eight in 10 (83%) of those asked, stated that the pandemic would have been a lot harder for them without their cuddly canine.
85% even claim their dog has been as valuable and supportive as family and close friends over the past 12 months.
It’s no surprise that as restrictions ease, a quarter of dog owners are looking to prioritise their pet’s happiness more than before, with 23% looking to repay their pooches for their valiant lockdown efforts by showering them with treats and some much-deserved TLC.
When it comes to holiday planning, 26% claimed they would specifically look for dog-friendly hotels to ensure their dog could join them – in fact, a quarter (25%) claim they won’t travel without their pups at all.
Julie Baker, UK&I Vice President, Hilton, who owns a Border Terrier called Muttley, said: “We are thrilled to launch our bespoke dog menu, Bone Appétit, across over 30 properties as a way to help pet owners give their furry family members a special reward post-pandemic.
"I cannot wait to treat Muttley to a hard-earned Mutt Roast and a little weekend away at our local Hilton!”
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