A HOTEL chain has responded to the rise of the pampered pooch by launching a new ‘Pawfect Package’ to welcome dogs and their owners.

Following #NationalDogDay last month, dogs booked in at one of the three Hallmark Hotels in Bournemouth will be greeted by a personalised card and welcome pack in their owner’s room on arrival.

The package comes complete with dog treats, paw mat and dog bowl in the room, a large bottle of still water, a towel, and a map recommending hotel grounds/nearby parkland to explore while they stretch their legs.

Robert Alley, group sales and marketing director at Hallmark Hotels, said: “The growth of the UK stay-cation, the price of kennels and the increasing desire to holiday with our hounds have all contributed to a major rise in demand for pet-friendly hotels. We’re therefore delighted to be able to offer our guests the opportunity to get away with all the family.”

He added: “A recent survey carried out by vet charity PDSA revealed one in four dogs are depressed because they are lonely. Even more reason to book your pooch in alongside you when you holiday.”

To celebrate the launch of the ‘Pawfect Package’, Hallmark Hotels is going to reward four deserving dogs, and their two-legged companions, with a two-night luxury mini-break at the Hallmark Hotel of their choice.

Among the potential canine candidates are: service dogs for people with a wide range of disabilities; detection dogs used by the police and military to locate bombs, drugs, and illegal paraphernalia; search and rescue dogs, which help find missing people after natural disasters or in collapsed buildings; guard dogs, which protect property from intruders or drive away predators from livestock; therapy dogs, which allow unfamiliar people to touch and play with them as a source of comfort and affection; actor dogs on the silver screen, herding dogs, and many more.

To nominate a deserving dog, upload a picture to Twitter @hallmarkhotels, Facebook (Hallmark Hotels), or Instagram @hallmarkhotels1.

Include the hashtag #PawfectPackage and a brief description why your canine companion deserves a break.

The winning four entries will be chosen and announced on October 1.

The competition closes midnight on September 30.