DOGS in Basingstoke will be among the first to snap up a special passport launched by a popular attraction. 

The Vyne, in Sherborne St John, is one of 29 National Trust places to launch the Pooch Passport which encourages dogs and their owners to explore the different locations.

Launched in partnership with natural pet food maker Forthglade, the Pooch Passport has been unveiled exclusively at National Trust venues in London and the South East, including The Vyne.

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The 29 places were specially selected because they have been awarded a ‘pawprint’ rating of two or three, which means they provide good or very good facilities for visiting dogs.

This may include dog-washing areas, drinking stations, dog zones in cafes, waste bins and downloadable walks for dog walkers.

At The Vyne, dogs can enjoy dog ice cream from the downstairs café.

Pawprint ratings can be found on property web pages and in the National Trust handbook.

From September 1, 2023 to February 29, 2024, dogs who enjoy walks at participating properties can have their Pooch Passport stamped. Once they have collected unique stamps from six places, they will receive a special Forthglade treat.

National Trust dogs welcome project manager Ceinwen Paynton said: “We’re delighted to be able to say ‘thank you’ to our dog-loving supporters in London and the South East with our Pooch Passport, developed in partnership with Forthglade.

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“We know how much it means to people to be able to bring their dogs when they visit our places and not leave them home alone. Our paw print rating makes it easy to plan a visit with your dog, and the Pooch Passport provides the perfect reason to explore new places with them.

“However, we’re also aware that not everyone loves dogs. Our Pooch Passport includes Canine Code tips to help dogs and their owners behave responsibly and courteously, and the access information provided by the pawprint rating will be of help to all our visitors.”

Marketing officer at The Vyne, Karen Legg, said: “We love welcoming dogs to The Vyne – there’s acres of gardens, meadows and woods to explore, and we’ve got circular waymarked routes so it’s easy to find your way.

“Or you and your pooch might like to grab some cake and dog ice cream and flake out in the sun on the lawn. If the weather changes for the worst dogs can come into the ground floor of the café so there’s no need to shelter under trees or rush back to the car.”