**Blackpool Pleasure Beach Welcomes Dogs for Special ‘Dog’s Day Out’ Initiative, Dividing Visitor Opinion**
In a bold new move designed to make the traditional family day out more inclusive, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has announced a significant update to its entry policy. For the first time since the park’s inception, guests will be permitted to bring their canine companions along on selected dates. The initial trial takes the form of a special ‘Dog’s Day Out’ event, taking place every Sunday throughout the month of August. Depending on public response, the initiative could be extended to cover additional days, or even made a permanent fixture in the calendar.
The Lancashire theme park, known for its historic rollercoasters and lively atmosphere, hopes the scheme will alleviate the common guilt felt by many pet owners who are forced to leave their animals at home. By welcoming dogs through its gates, Pleasure Beach aspires to offer an all-encompassing family experience.
Guests wishing to include their dog in their visit will be able to obtain a special Dog Entry Pass. As part of the experience, the resort will provide multiple water stations, complimentary dog treats, and restful spaces for both humans and their pets to unwind together. However, it has been made clear that four-legged visitors will not be allowed to ride any attractions.
Managing Director Amanda Thompson OBE, explained the thinking behind the initiative, stating, “We know many of our visitors consider their dogs as true family members, and it’s often a source of anxiety to leave them behind for the day. By introducing dog-friendly Sundays, we’re ensuring our guests don’t have to choose between a day out and their pet’s wellbeing.” Thompson added that the scheme reflects the park’s commitment to being a “family destination in the broadest sense”.
Despite the park’s positive intentions, the decision has generated a split response from the public. Some have welcomed the change, praising its inclusive nature and celebrating the opportunity to enjoy a day out without leaving furry family members at home. Social media has seen multiple supportive comments, with one pet owner remarking, “We take our dog everywhere we can—so long as people are responsible, there’s no issue.” Another advocate pointed out, “It’s not fair for dogs to be left behind during long outings, and owner responsibility will prevent any problems.”
However, not everyone is convinced. Critics have raised practical concerns about potential hygiene issues, noise, and the likelihood of dogs reacting to the loud and hectic atmosphere of a busy amusement park. One sceptic wrote, “Dog poo bags in the summer heat, barking and fighting—why would anyone want this?” Another worried that the park’s sensory overload could be distressing for animals, suggesting that not all dog owners would necessarily be able to judge if their pet would cope.
In response to these criticisms, supporters have been quick to argue that responsible pet owners are likely to avoid bringing nervous, aggressive, or poorly trained dogs to such a busy venue. Some have also noted the park’s existing CCTV infrastructure, which could help staff handle any incidents swiftly.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach staff are reportedly working to put measures in place to ensure that both canine and human guests are safe and happy throughout the trial. With trained personnel on hand, the park is aiming to set an industry precedent for integrating pet care into the leisure experience.
‘Dog’s Day Out’ at Blackpool Pleasure Beach begins on Sunday, 10 August, with further sessions scheduled every Sunday until the end of the month. Whether these pet-friendly days become a permanent fixture will largely depend on their reception and operational success.
As British pet ownership continues to rise, and with dog-friendly cafés and shops becoming increasingly popular, theme parks like Blackpool Pleasure Beach may be ushering in a new era in family entertainment. The experiment is sure to be closely watched by both enthusiasts and sceptics alike, as the future of dog-friendly days in public attractions could hang in the balance.