Dog-friendly charging: why EV drivers are choosing InstaVolt.

For many drivers, a road trip wouldn’t be complete without bringing the dog along.

And with more people travelling with pets than ever before – alongside the continued growth in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, drivers are increasingly looking for charging locations that work for the whole family.

That means more than just reliable, ultra-rapid charging. It means locations where drivers can make the most of their stop, whether that’s grabbing a coffee, taking a break, or letting their dog stretch their legs.

Charging stops that work for you, and your dog

Across the UK, InstaVolt customers are already highlighting the benefits of well-located, dog-friendly charging sites.

At Mayne Street, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 4QY, one driver noted the convenience of the site “Great fast charging off the M6 near Stoke on Trent, at Coop carpark and a fish & chip shop across the road plus a park to walk the dog!”

While at Stroud Park, Banbury – J11, M40, OX16 4AE, one of InstaVolt’s largest hubs, drivers highlighted “lots of grass patches to let the dogs stretch their legs” and “fast charger, good dog walking and coffee”.

Other popular stops include Culm Valley Sports Centre, Cullompton, EX15 1LL, described as a “great little spot… with good dog walking close by”, and Route 303, Honiton, EX14 9ND, where drivers praised “grass next to the chargers… perfect in the middle of a long journey”.

At Morris Street, Wigan, WN1 3RB, one driver even chose the location specifically for its access to a nearby country park to walk the dog, calling InstaVolt “the EV backbone of Britain” after thousands of miles on the network.

And at Ludlow Road, Leominster, HR6 0DQ, drivers highlighted the balance of convenience and comfort – “a field behind to exercise the dog… perfect”. And at Bell Farm Way outside Bedford MK43 9SS just off the A421 and M1 there is a tarmacked and grassed dedicated dog walking area around a lake. Not forgetting our flagship site the Winchester Superhub, just off the A34, that has 44 ultra-rapid chargers, a dedicated dog walking area, long bays for towing vehicles and a Starbucks cafe.

Ultra-rapid charging typically takes around 20 minutes, enough time to reset, recharge, and take a break from driving. For dog owners, that time is invaluable. It’s an opportunity to:

• Get your dog out of the car
• Let them stretch their legs
• Keep them hydrated
• Reduce stress on longer journeys

Whether you’re heading away for a bank holiday break or visiting friends and family, planning your stops around locations that offer these benefits can make all the difference.

InstaVolt’s approach to site selection focuses on convenience, accessibility and nearby amenities, helping to create charging locations that drivers actively choose, not just rely on. The perfect time for a coffee and even a ‘puppucino’ at one of our Starbucks or Costa sites as well as a short walk with the dog before getting back on the road.

It’s part of a wider shift towards charging destinations that support the full journey experience.

Keeping dogs safe in warmer weather

While charging stops are a great opportunity for a break, they’re also important for your pet’s safety, particularly as temperatures begin to rise.

As Charlie Matthias, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, explains: “For many of us, the arrival of warmer weather is a welcome change, but it’s important to remember that it can bring real dangers for our dogs. Even spring sunshine can cause serious issues – especially for flat-faced breeds or dogs with underlying health conditions. All drivers should take note that there is no safe amount of time to leave a dog alone in a car – even a few minutes could prove to be fatal. Drivers of electric vehicles need to be mindful that this also applies when they’re charging their car. Why not treat the charge time as an opportunity to get your dog out of the car for a drink of water and a toilet break?”

Top tips for travelling with dogs

If you’re planning a long journey with your dog, a few simple steps can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Try to never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle
• Plan routes with suitable stopping points
• Choose locations with space to walk your dog
• Always carry fresh water
• Take regular breaks throughout your journey

A better journey for everyone

At InstaVolt, we believe charging should enhance your journey, not interrupt it. By combining ultra-rapid charging with well-located sites and thoughtful amenities, we’re helping drivers make the most of every stop. Because when you’re travelling with family, including the four-legged kind, the journey matters just as much as the destination.