Dogs are part of the family for dog lovers, and it’s hard to leave them behind. But what if you want to go to a casino?
Given the setup of the place and the many rules and considerations, taking a dog to a casino can be difficult.
Yet, some casinos are starting to allow dogs. They’ve noticed that pet owners want to bring their furry friends along, maybe for luck or just to have them around while they are away from their lives on vacation and in a casino.
This article will help you understand which casinos allow dogs, what rules you need to follow, and how to make the trip fun for you and your pet.
Can You Bring Your Dogs to Casinos?
Before you pack up and head to the casino with your dog, it’s important to understand what’s allowed and what’s not. In general, most UK casinos do not allow regular pet dogs inside.
These rules are primarily in place to keep the environment quiet, clean, and comfortable.
However, assistance dogs are a different case. Under UK law, particularly the Equality Act 2010, trained assistance dogs must be allowed to enter public places like casinos, hotels, shops, and restaurants.
These dogs help people with disabilities and are specially trained to behave well in busy places. Casino staff are not allowed to deny access to someone with a certified assistance dog, even if the venue normally has a “no pets” rule.
Interestingly, the topic of bringing dogs to casinos isn’t just theoretical—there have been real attempts to test these policies. In fact, the CasinoBeen Founder personally tried visiting multiple casinos across the UK accompanied by his dog, only to be denied entry each time due to strict pet policies. This highlights how most UK casinos maintain a firm stance on allowing only service animals, underscoring the importance of checking each venue’s rules before planning a visit with your pet.
But, if your dog is not an assistance dog, they won’t be allowed in the gaming area. That’s the standard across the UK, whether you’re in London, Manchester, Birmingham, or a seaside resort.
Dog-Friendly Casinos in the UK
Even though regular pets are not allowed in the actual casino areas, some casino hotels in the UK do try to be more pet-friendly in other parts of the building.
That means your dog may not be able to join you at the poker table or roulette wheel, but you might still be able to stay in the same hotel together.
For example, Resorts World Birmingham has a hotel that may allow pets to stay with their owners depending on availability and room type.
Similarly, some Genting Casino properties include hotels where dogs may be permitted in guest rooms, though always outside the gaming areas. Policies vary from location to location, so it’s important to contact the hotel directly before booking.
These types of setups can work well if you’re traveling with someone else who can watch the dog while you spend time in the casino. It also allows you to stay close to your pet without having to book a separate kennel or sitter.
Rules for Bringing Dogs to Casinos
When dogs are allowed in a casino—or even just in a casino hotel—there are important rules to follow, and they are different depending on the type of dog:
- Assistance Dogs
- Pet Dogs
Assistance dogs, such as guide dogs for the blind or hearing dogs for the deaf, are trained to behave properly in public. They stay calmly at their owner’s side, do not bark or wander, and are trained to relieve themselves only on command. Because of this, they are legally allowed in all public areas, including casinos.
People with assistance dogs are not required to carry proof or identification, although many choose to use harnesses, jackets, or cards to help avoid confusion.
If staff members ask, you only need to say the dog is a trained assistance dog and explain what it does for you. Staff cannot ask for medical records or proof of training.
Pet dogs, on the other hand, do not have this legal access. Casinos usually do not allow them because of potential problems such as barking, bathroom accidents, or disturbing other guests.
Even a friendly, well-behaved dog might make someone else uncomfortable. Some people are allergic or scared of dogs, so venues try to keep the environment welcoming for everyone.
Dog-Friendly Activities Near Casinos
If your dog isn’t allowed inside the casino, that doesn’t mean your trip has to be complicated. Many cities with casinos also offer plenty of dog-friendly activities and pet care services, so your dog can have a fun, safe time while you try your luck inside.
One smart solution is to leave your dog in the care of professional boarding or walking services near the casino. These services provide your dog with attention, exercise, and a safe environment while you enjoy a few hours at the gaming tables.
For example:
- 1. Home From Home Dog Boarding Agency Ltd in Chertsey is known for its reliable pet boarding services. With a 4.8-star rating and over 190 reviews, it’s built a strong reputation for clear communication and quality care. It’s open until 5 PM and is ideal for longer stays or day visits.
- 2. The Pet Care Company in Ashton-under-Lyne is a 5-star rated dog walking service. They’re praised for their caring and trustworthy handling of pets. If you’re near Manchester or planning a short casino visit, they can ensure your dog gets a good walk and attention during your time away.
- 3. The Canine Agency Dog Walking also comes highly rated, with excellent feedback on how well they manage dogs. Their service runs until 4 PM and is ideal for short casino breaks where your dog can enjoy the outdoors under professional care.
If you prefer to keep your dog nearby with other group members, there are also many dog-friendly spots to explore close to casinos.
For example:
- Brighton: Enjoy a walk on the dog-friendly beach or visit one of the many pubs and cafes that allow dogs inside.
- Manchester: Let your dog stretch their legs at Heaton Park or Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden, both great places to relax while others visit the casino.
- Birmingham: Take your pet to Cannon Hill Park, a spacious area with walking paths, open fields, and even pet-friendly cafés nearby.
Pro Tip: To plan ahead, search for “dog daycare near [casino name]” or check with your hotel concierge—they often have partnerships or recommendations for trusted local services.
That way, while you’re enjoying a game of blackjack or spinning the roulette wheel, your dog is being well looked after or having their own kind of fun.
Tips for Visiting Casinos With Your Dog
Bringing your dog along on a trip that includes a casino visit takes planning, but it can be done smoothly.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Check pet policies in advance: Whether it’s the casino, hotel, or restaurant, always call or check the website to see if dogs are allowed. Policies can change, and you don’t want to be surprised on arrival.
- Pack your dog’s essentials: Bring food, a leash, waste bags, water bowls, toys, and their bed or blanket. Familiar items help keep dogs calm in new places.
- Use pet-sitting services: If your hotel doesn’t allow dogs in all areas, see if they offer pet-sitting or recommend local services. That way, your dog can be cared for while you enjoy your time at the casino.
- Plan daily routines: Make time for walks, playtime, and rest. Dogs get tired and need breaks just like people do, especially after traveling.
- Be a respectful dog owner: Clean up after your dog, keep them leashed in public areas, and avoid loud or crowded places that may stress them out.
Are Online Casinos Better for Dog Owners?
If your main goal is to enjoy gambling but you don’t want to deal with travel, booking rooms, or pet policies, online casinos can be a perfect solution.
Online gambling lets you enjoy all the fun of games like blackjack, slots, and poker—from the comfort of your home. This means your dog can stay right next to you on the sofa or in their bed, and you don’t have to worry about rules or travel arrangements.
There are thousands of licensed online casinos in the UK, many of which offer exciting games, bonuses, and even live dealers. You only need a phone, tablet, or computer and a secure internet connection.
This is a relaxing and flexible option for dog owners who prefer to stay in or avoid the hassle of finding pet care.
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Conclusion: Regular Pet Dogs Are Not Allowed in UK Casinos
In the UK, the rules around dogs in casinos are clear but worth understanding in detail. Assistance dogs are always allowed by law, and casinos must welcome them as part of supporting equal access.
However, regular pet dogs are generally not allowed in casino gaming areas due to health, safety, and comfort concerns.
That doesn’t mean you can’t travel with your dog. Pet-friendly hotels, dog-friendly activities, and even online gambling options make it possible to plan a casino trip that works for both you and your furry companion.
With thoughtful planning and the right accommodation, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
FAQs
Only assistance dogs are allowed by law. Regular pets are not allowed in most UK casinos.
Yes. Under the Equality Act, all UK businesses must welcome trained assistance dogs.
No. You are not legally required to carry ID or proof, though many people do to avoid confusion.
It depends on the hotel. Some allow it if the dog is well-behaved, others may require you to stay with your dog.
Yes. It’s the most convenient way to enjoy casino games without worrying about pet rules or travel.
