Dog-Friendly Conferences At The Montagu Arms
Leave the office behind and escape to the forest… with your dog!
Did you know that you could host a dog-friendly conference in the New Forest National Park?
We understand that your four-legged friends are a big part of your life, and with the increase in pet-friendly workplaces over the past few years, many people can choose to take their dog with them rather than leave them at home. Now you can bring them with you on your break from city life, forget about needing to arrange a dog-sitter and discover a dog-friendly hotel in a most idyllic setting for your next conference.
An idyllic setting for your conference
Situated in a serene location between coast and country and away from the hustle and bustle of the city; we have riverside strolls, forest walks and a host of activities right on the doorstep, giving you a chance to truly unwind and relax, and time to reinvigorate your creativity.
Surrounding yourself in nature is hugely beneficial for both mental and physical health; so, a team building trip or conference in the New Forest could be just the thing your team needs to feel valued, re-inspired, and it offers the perfect location to disconnect from everyday life, and reconnect as a team.
At our conference venue in Hampshire, we have three dog-friendly corporate meeting rooms and our pet-friendly policy means you have the freedom to bring your four-legged friends and ensures that all hotel guests enjoy their experience, with or without a dog.
We ask that dogs are kept on a lead at all times; they are welcome throughout the hotel except in The Terrace Restaurant, but if you wish to enjoy The Terrace menu, we are more than happy for you to dine with your dog in the conservatory, or head to our pub, Monty's Inn, which is dog-friendly and open 7 days a week.
Dog-friendly activities and team-building for everyone!
The New Forest National Park has endless walks and running routes for you and your dogs, whether you’re seeking midday walking meetings or post-conference down-time.
And when it comes to team-building, there are plenty of other dog-friendly activities nearby. New Forest Activities welcome dogs on all of their canoeing sessions, they just ask that you bring a blanket or towel for them to sit on whilst on the boat. So, you and your team can take to the water by canoe, explore the creeks and banks of the beautiful Beaulieu River, looking out for wildlife with your expert guide, and take your four-legged friends with you.
Why bring your dog?
Why not! Your dog is part of your family, leaving them when you go away can often cause stress for both of you, and it can be expensive if you need to find a dog-sitter or a kennel. Now you can bring your dog with you, by simply having them there it’s believed they can help to reduce stress, and dogs can help to create a uniquely relaxed environment for you and your colleagues.
Dogs can assist with enhancing communication between people, they’re the ideal ice breaker and can be a great conversation starter, especially if the group don’t know one another.
Having a dog or dogs with you can also improve the experience by forcing you to get out of your comfort zone, schedule your day around the needs of the dog and encourage times where you can walk and talk and connect with your team on a different level.
Top tips for your dog-friendly conference
Training
Before you go ensure your dog is ‘office trained.’ Is your dog used to being in the work environment; quiet, toilet-trained, happy with noises, chatter and content to chill out between walks and play.
Create a packing list
Creating a checklist for you and your dog helps you to enjoy a stress-free stay. Include everything from food and bowls, poo bags, and towel/s or drying robe, to their medication (if they are on any), toys they can’t live without or treats they’ll do anything for. Dogs love routine so making them as comfortable as possible, and their visit feel as ‘normal’ as possible will help them to settle in and keep any anxiety at bay.
Pet-proof your conference
Know the dogs you’re bringing and understand how you need to pet-proof your conference for a stress-free experience. During your meetings, keep cables off the floor and human food and drinks away from dogs. Conference rooms and the hotel are pet-proofed before arrival, but it's important to double-check when bringing things in or out of the rooms.
Plan pet time into the conference
Schedule some ‘walk and talk’ sessions and plan in mini breaks during the morning and afternoon sessions for some relax and play time. The humans will appreciate this break too; a boost of fresh air will often aid focus, productivity and creativity.
Keen to find out more about bespoke pet-friendly business trips for your team?
Business trips and conferences needn’t be stuffy and serious, with every minute planned. Invite relaxation, creativity and nature into the schedule and give your team an opportunity to connect in a different way.