A GIRVAN tourism group has launched a bid to make the town a go-to destination for dog owners holidaying in Scotland.

Go Girvan wants to make the harbour town an even more popular place for people to bring their furry friends.

Girvan's beach spans almost two miles and is open to dogs and their responsible humans throughout the year.

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Go Girvan wants to go further to ensure dogs are also able to experience many of the other great things Girvan has to offer.

Over recent months, they have engaged with a host of local businesses to identify ways of making the town as dog-friendly as possible.

Ayr Advertiser: Dog model Parker shopping in Girvan-a-Damn Dog model Parker shopping in Girvan-a-Damn (Image: Victoria Rose, Flaunt and Flourish)

A new Go Girvan dog-friendly sticker scheme has proved popular with over 20 shops, pubs and cafes already signed up. 

The scheme allows visitors to easily identify local premises that allow dogs inside. Many of the businesses have dog treats at the counter and The New Cafe Royale has even introduced a dog menu.

Along with the sticker scheme, a new website page has been created listing all the dog-friendly things to do in the town, along with a list of local dog-friendly accommodation.

During August, Go Girvan will be encouraging visitors and locals to upload photos of their pooches enjoying a break in the town to Instagram using #DogFriendlyGirvan, with the best image winning a doggy hamper from Girvan Pet Store.

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Susanne Arbuckle, media and marketing officer from Go Girvan, said: "We know dogs are very much a part of the family and we are aware that an increasing number of dog owners want to take their pet on holiday with them.

"They don't want to compromise on what activities they are able to do during their break so we have been working with local businesses in Girvan to make sure dogs can enjoy their time here just as much as humans.

"By creating a sticker scheme and a dedicated webpage, we hope dog owners will be inspired to visit when they see just how dog-friendly Girvan is.

"Our goal is to make Girvan one of Scotland's most dog-friendly destinations and I believe we are already well on the way to fulfilling that ambition."